The Basics
What is a DCP?
A Digital Cinema Package is the industry-standard format for screening films in theaters. Whether you're an independent filmmaker premiering your latest short or a festival preparing a lineup of features, shorts, and music videos, a properly created DCP ensures your film looks and sounds its best on the big screen.
Why It Matters
Why do you need a DCP?
Most theaters and festivals require a DCP for playback because it guarantees:
- High-quality projection — DCPs maintain lossless video and audio quality, far superior to MP4s or ProRes files.
- Universal compatibility — standardized for cinema servers worldwide, ensuring seamless playback.
- Reliable delivery — unlike Blu-rays or video files, a properly made DCP won't suffer from resolution, frame rate, or sync issues.
The Audience
Who needs a DCP?
- Independent filmmakers — if you're submitting to festivals or planning a theatrical screening, you must have a DCP.
- Film festivals — a consistent format across all films means fewer tech headaches and a smoother event.
- Distributors & sales agents — DCPs are essential for international sales and commercial screenings.
How We Make It Easy
Fully DCI-compliant, cinema-ready
At The DCP Works, we craft cinema-ready DCPs with:
Fast turnaround
Get your DCP the same day.
QC report included
Every DCP includes a frame-level QC report, reviewed by a real person, at no extra charge.
Digital & hard drive delivery
We send your DCP via digital delivery or ship it on a cinema-ready drive.
Flat-rate shorts, honest pricing
Shorts under 15 minutes start at a flat $129 (2K) / $189 (4K) standard, with faster options available. Longer films are priced per minute — see our pricing page.
Ready When You Are
Need a DCP — or a DCP partner for your festival?
Tell us about your project and we'll have a custom quote back to you in about ten minutes.
Get Started