Subtext Launches as Indie Film Distributor Before Sundance 2026

Subtext, a new company set up to distribute independent films, is launching this week as the 2026 Sundance Film Festival gets under way in Utah. The firm comes from industry veterans Danielle DiGiacomo, Brian Levy and Teddy Liouliakis, who have years of experience in film production and sales. They plan to open offices in New York, Los Angeles and Chicago to handle deals for movies that often struggle to find viewers.

Background

Independent films face tough odds in today's market. Big studios focus on blockbusters with huge budgets and known stars, leaving smaller projects to fight for attention. Festivals like Sundance give these films a spotlight, but many still end up on shelves without wide release. Subtext aims to change that by bridging the gap between filmmakers and audiences.

Danielle DiGiacomo has worked on projects that won awards at major festivals. She spent time at companies that handled sales for films like those shown at Cannes and Toronto. Brian Levy brings know-how from producing movies that played in theaters across the U.S. Teddy Liouliakis has dealt with distribution for indie hits that found success on streaming platforms. Together, they saw a need for a company focused only on indies.

The timing lines up with Sundance, which runs from January 22 to February 1 in Park City, Utah. This event draws buyers from streaming services and theaters looking for the next big thing. Subtext plans to be there, meeting producers and scouting films that fit their model. Past launches at Sundance have led to quick deals, and this one hopes to follow suit.

The indie world has changed a lot in recent years. Streaming boomed, then pulled back on spending. Theaters are back but selective. Subtext enters at a point where filmmakers need partners who understand small budgets and niche stories.

Key Details

Subtext will focus on films with budgets under $10 million, the kind that shine at festivals but lack marketing muscle. They plan to handle everything from sales to theaters and streaming, plus home video and international rights. Offices in three cities mean they can cover East Coast deals, West Coast premieres and Midwest outreach.

Founders' Experience

DiGiacomo started in development, moving scripts from page to screen. She joined sales teams that closed deals for films grossing millions on limited releases. Levy produced over a dozen features, including ones that won audience awards. Liouliakis handled logistics for distribution, getting films into 50 countries.

"We've seen too many great films sit unseen because no one fought for them. Subtext will make sure that changes." – Danielle DiGiacomo, co-founder

The team has hired five staff so far, with plans to grow to 15 by year's end. They have seed funding from private investors who back indie projects. No public details on the amount, but it's enough for two years of operations.

Subtext's first moves include attending Sundance panels on distribution trends. They will host a private screening for buyers on January 25. Early talks point to picking up two films from the festival lineup, though titles are not public yet.

What This Means

For filmmakers, Subtext offers a new path. Indies often sign with firms that prioritize volume over care. This company promises hands-on work, from festival strategy to release plans. It could mean more films reach theaters or platforms like Netflix and Hulu.

Buyers get another player in a crowded field. With offices in key spots, Subtext can negotiate faster than remote outfits. They stress data-driven picks, using past sales to spot winners.

Sundance itself benefits. More distributors mean more deals announced during the fest, boosting its rep as a launchpad. The 2026 edition already has buzz with Beyond Film events on industry talks. Subtext's presence adds to that energy.

Broader effects touch jobs and stories. Indie films often highlight diverse voices on race, identity and daily struggles. Better distribution gets those tales to more people. In cities like Chicago, local theaters could see fresh content.

Challenges remain. Subtext must prove it can deliver hits. Competition from established names is fierce. Market shifts, like ad-supported streaming, could alter plans. Still, the founders' track record suggests they know the terrain.

The launch comes as Sundance preps its Producers Lab, with apps open until February 11. That program supports emerging talent, aligning with Subtext's focus. Films from there might find a home with the new company down the line.

Subtext plans quarterly updates on deals and hires. Their website goes live January 23, with a full slate of services listed. For now, eyes are on Sundance, where first impressions count.