I love independent films. For years, I've been an ardent supporter and believer in the power of indie cinema. Independent films like "LISTERS: A Glimpse Into Extreme Birdwatching" encapsulate unique stories and perspectives that rarely make it to mainstream media. This documentary, specifically, offers a compelling look into the world of birdwatching, showcasing the passion and dedication of its enthusiasts, as well as its comical obsessive side. It's a love letter and critique rolled into one, as the best indie cinema always is.

Unfortunately, the struggle for independent films to find their audience is more challenging than ever in our current digital ecosystem. Many valuable indie projects go unnoticed simply because they are not listed on platforms where cinema aficionados gather to discover and discuss films. Letterboxd, a popular social network for film enthusiasts, is one such platform that could significantly boost the visibility and conversation around "LISTERS."

The filmmakers chose to release LISTERS for free on Youtube - this includes being Ad-free. It is avilable to all, worldwide, ad-free. Outside of a trailer and a clip, the filmmakers have not posted anything else on YouTube. They are not "content creators", they are filmmakers who released their feature-length film on YouTube, full stop.

Unfortunately, Letterboxd will only list a movie if it can be added to The Movie Database (TMDB) and TMDB's rules preculde anything posted exclusively on YouTube. This superfiicially makes a certain sense - most content on YouTube would not be defined as feature films. But they would allow a movie self-distributed on a website, which would then never be discovered. Or on Amazon Prime, where it would give Jeff Bezos rental and/or ad revenue.

By releasing their film on YouTube, documentary was abel to be viewing 1.5 million times in the first month! Without giving revenue to any of our tech oligarchs. Now it's time to allow the cultural conversation surrounding this film to continue on the platforms like Letterboxd.

By listing "LISTERS" on Letterboxd, it would not only acknowledge the documentary’s artistic merit but also open doors for its discovery by a global audience. This recognition would contribute to the broader appreciation of independent filmmakers who work tirelessly to bring new stories to the screen despite limited resources.

I urge cinema lovers around the world to support this effort. Let us help "LISTERS" gain the attention it deserves by getting it listed on Letterboxd. Together, we can create momentum for indie cinema, ensuring that remarkable films are never overlooked again.

Please sign this petition to urge Letterboxd to include "LISTERS: A Glimpse Into Extreme Birdwatching." Your support can make a remarkable difference in the fight for the survival and recognition of independent films. Thank you for standing with us.