Interview with Sofia Tocar, distributor at Square Eyes

Sofia Tocar, distributor at Square Eyes, discussed the company’s approach to bringing independent films to audiences at the Festival dei Popoli 2026 in Florence, where she held a talk on short film distribution. The conversation explored how distribution can support filmmakers beyond simply submitting their work to festivals.

Tocar outlined the company’s focus on distinctive projects, its tailored festival strategies and the practical realities of short-film distribution. Her advice also addressed how emerging filmmakers can value their work and plan its journey.

Square Eyes at Festival dei Popoli 2026: a selective catalogue and a tailored festival strategy

Square Eyes began by distributing short films and has since expanded to feature-length documentaries, fiction and hybrid works. Tocar said the company is drawn to films with a strong artistic identity and stories that take creative risks.

Its small catalogue also shapes which projects it accepts: a film may be compelling but still not fit if it overlaps too closely with another title already represented. For each project, the team considers the filmmaker, subject and format when deciding which festivals are likely to be the best match.

Sofia Tocar on finding films and building lasting relationships

The three-person team discovers projects through industry events, festival programmes and pitch sessions, as well as through direct approaches from filmmakers and producers.

Square Eyes also aims to maintain relationships with filmmakers over time, sometimes working with them first on a short and later on a feature. For Tocar, that continuity can make the work more collaborative, as distributor and filmmaker develop a shared understanding across projects.

Short film distribution: how Square Eyes handles short-film releases

For shorts, Square Eyes generally prioritises a festival release, while also considering special screenings and, where suitable, theatrical opportunities. A distribution agreement typically runs for 18 months to two years, during which the company plans submissions, seeks a suitable premiere and promotes the film internationally.

Tocar said a campaign may involve around 200 festival submissions, with fees and service costs agreed at the outset; discounts or waivers may be available through the distributor’s festival relationships. She also encouraged filmmakers to ask about screening fees, and suggested delaying an online release until the film has had time to travel through festivals.