movie theater screening room

What is a DCP?

A DCP (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 film festival preparing a lineup of award-worthy shorts, features, or music videos, a properly created DCP ensures your film looks and sounds its best on the big screen.

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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.

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.

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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 The DCP Works Makes it Easy:

At The DCP Works, we craft fully DCI-compliant, cinema-ready DCPs with: 

Fast Turnaround 

Get your DCP in as little as 24 hours.

Digital & Hard Drive Delivery

We send your DCP via digital delivery or ship it on a cinema-ready drive.

Affordable, Transparent Pricing

Pricing starts at $5/min for 2K and $8/min for 4K, with no hidden fees.

Need a DCP or DCP partner for your festival?