An independent film, traditionally speaking, is generally referred to as a movie created entirely outside the traditional Hollywood system. It is usually the kind of production where the actors double up as camera men, friends and family provide the bankroll and the director’s mom is in charge of craft services.
Over the last few years, however, the “indie” film has taken on a whole new face. Large productions houses have formed specialty divisions that focus exclusively on “limited run” titles. These are movies that may not have the broad appeal of a summer blockbuster, but still enough demand worth releasing in a limited capacity - often to critical acclaim.
Of course with a limited run comes a limited budget. Luxuries such as wide-spread marketing campaigns are slim-to-none for the indie gem. It is for this reason that poster art plays an particularly significant role in an independent film’s marketing strategy.
Like the movies themselves, poster art for independent films can be especially beautiful and most certainly stand out from the crowd. These posters are imaginative and thoughtful while not forgetting the fundamentals such as color and typography. The result is more often than not an eye catching work of art that sparks your interest and curiosity - which is exactly what it’s supposed to do.
It is in tribute these wonderful works of art that Smashing Magazine has collected 40 Exquisite Independent Film Posters for your enjoyment. We hope they are as inspiring to you as they are to us.
40 Exquisite Independent Film Posters
Zoo (2007)
Before the Devil Knows You’re Dead (2007)
The Squid and the Whale (2005)
The Life Aquatic With Steve Zissou (2004)
References
- Internet Movie Poster Awards
- Internet Movie Database
- Hand Drawn Posters For Quirky Indie Comedies
- 100 Best Movie Posters of All Time
- Wikipedia’s Independent Film Entry