Date:
Author:
Daniel Farrell
001
The short answer
A launch film is a short video, usually 60 to 90 seconds, that introduces a startup to investors, customers and future hires on the day it goes public. It is built to be shared on X and LinkedIn, and it answers three questions fast: what the company does, why it matters now, and why this team will win.
Te Dua is a film studio in San Francisco, New York and Los Angeles that makes launch films for founders backed by Y Combinator and a16z speedrun, and for the venture funds behind them.
002
What a launch film includes
One idea. A single image or scene people remember, such as a founder jumping out of a plane.
The founders on camera. Investors back people, so the team is part of the story.
The product, simplified. Motion graphics or screen footage that shows the product without a tutorial.
Cutdowns. Shorter versions for X, LinkedIn and follow-up emails.
003
Launch film vs. demo video vs. brand film
A demo video shows how the product works and lives on your website and in sales emails. A launch film makes people care that the company exists and is made for one day of attention. A brand film is longer and more cinematic, often timed to a Series A or a major announcement. Most early-stage companies need a launch film first. Read more in Launch Film vs. Demo Video.
004
When you need one
You need a launch film when you are about to go public: a YC Launch post, a Demo Day, a fundraise announcement, or a product that is ready for customers. Te Dua runs launch films on a fixed ten-day window from first call to launch day. Plan your launch.
