The Reddit response confuses a supply demand problem with a promotion problem and a distribution problem.

The roadshow is an elegant solution to the distribution problem (whether it’s viable or not I don’t know).

But you still have to promote the bus.

As for the supply demand problem, part of the promotion leg of the tripod has to be dedicated to educating / growing an audience. They have to learn how to make an independent film part of their everyday experience. This I think is your point about the cookies.

If you build it they won’t come.

If you tell them about it, a few people might come.

If you convince them they’ll benefit from it, you’ve got a good chance of filling the seats.