Keith L. Craig has spent a lifetime facing the odds, whether on the battlefield or in Hollywood’s boardrooms. His latest book, Checkpoint Decoder: Unlocking the Film Distribution Codes, is a monument to his life’s mission of enabling underrepresented filmmakers and dismantling the gatekeeping that often stifles creativity in the entertainment industry.
With decades of experience as a decorated U.S. Army Sergeant Major and a film distribution executive who helped generate over $42 billion in box office revenue, Craig has distilled his hard-earned lessons into a guide that promises to reroute how filmmakers view the business of cinema.
A Blueprint for Filmmakers
Checkpoint Decoder is more than just a book; it’s a lifeline for filmmakers struggling to break through Hollywood’s rigid structures.
Craig draws from his own experiences, including his tenure at Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures, where he oversaw the distribution of cultural milestones like Black Panther, Frozen II, Avengers: Endgame, and The Lion King. These films immediately became global phenomena, thanks in part to Craig’s strategic brilliance in connecting stories with audiences across continents.
The book offers readers an insider’s view of the film distribution process, from licensing deals to profit participation accounting. It demystifies terms and practices that often intimidate newcomers while providing actionable advice on how to monetize projects effectively. For independent and underrepresented filmmakers, this guide is a must-have. Craig explains how theatrical releases, even on a small scale, can add immense value to films by elevating their profile and marketability.
“Filmmakers often think their job ends when they finish shooting,” Craig says. “But the real work begins when you start figuring out how to bring your story to the world. That’s where Checkpoint Decoder comes in.”
Building an Empire One Film at a Time
Far from accidental, Craig’s success is built on discipline, strategy, and an unending dedication to excellence. At Porter + Craig Film and Media Distribution, where he serves as co-founder and CEO, Craig oversees the release of dozens of films annually–all while securing multiple co-production deals each year. His company has become synonymous with championing independent voices and global talent, providing a platform for stories that might otherwise go unheard.
This empire didn’t materialize overnight. Craig credits his military and athletic background for shaping his ability to manage complex operations with precision and focus. During his 32-year career in the U.S. Army, he coordinated humanitarian missions that delivered millions of meals to disaster-stricken areas and led logistics for combat operations across six combat tours of duty. These experiences honed his skills in planning, execution, and adaptability—qualities that now define his work in Hollywood.
At Porter + Craig, every film is treated as a unique mission with its own set of challenges and opportunities. Craig’s team uses data analytics, market research, and professional relationships with broadcast networks, streamers, and theatrical partners to maximize each film’s potential reach.
Breaking Through Walls
Craig’s mission is not solely relegated to the financial aspect of filmmaking; he seeks to level the playing field for filmmakers who have historically been shut out of Hollywood’s inner circles. He sees Checkpoint Decoder as part of this broader effort to open access to resources and knowledge within the industry.
“Hollywood loves gatekeepers,” Craig says with a wry smile. “But gates are meant to be opened—or broken down.”
The book also addresses common pitfalls that derail many filmmakers’ careers, from poorly negotiated contracts to unrealistic expectations about profit margins. By sharing real-world examples and practical solutions, Craig equips readers with the tools they need to both survive and thrive in an industry known for its cutthroat competition.
As Keith L. Craig continues to build his Hollywood empire one film at a time, Checkpoint Decoder is a reflection of his own personal path, and stands as an invitation for others to join him. To those willing to decode the system, the possibilities are endless—and Keith L. Craig is handing them the key.
