Streaming has made movies easy to watch at home. But screenings are still a cool way to gather people. Hosting a movie screening can be super entertaining, but let's be real. It takes some work to make it happen. Here's a simple, step-by-step guide that will help you pull off a successful screening in just 10 steps.
The first thing you have to consider is how much a film screening costs. A well-planned budget will help you manage expenses and avoid overspending. The common costs include:
Now that you have gotten the overview of the budget for the screening, you have to know the purpose. What would you want to achieve through your screening? Are you aiming to:
Your goals will influence every decision from venue to marketing plan.
The right movie is important for your screening to be successful. Consider your target audience and the theme or purpose of your event. Are you going to target families, students, or film buffs? Ensure that the movie appeals to the interests of your target audience.
Also, ensure that the movie will serve the purpose of your event. If your event is for educational purposes, then you need to go for a documentary or some other thought-provoking feature. Remember to check the licensing terms for the movie since you will need permission to screen the movie publicly.
It is very important to gain the right film licensing. Showing movies in public without the right license may lead to some kind of legal problem. Licensing will provide you with permission to view the movie with an audience.
You can usually get licenses from the film's distributor or an organization such as the Motion Picture Licensing Corporation. The cost will vary based on the film and the size of your event. Do this early to avoid any delays.
The venue can make or break your event. Pick out a space that accommodates the size of your audience and also satisfies your technical requirements. Some of the options are: local theaters, community centers, outdoor spaces, or even a private home for more intimate events.
When you book your venue, it's important to consider location, access, and facilities. If doing an outdoor screening, for instance, you have to consider points like access to electricity supplies or a backup should it rain, among others.
Here's a basic checklist of the equipment that will get you started:
Test all equipment in advance to ensure any technical problems are identified and fixed. Consider hiring a technician to handle setup and operation.
Promotion is the most important way to attract an audience. Identify who your target audience is, followed by the best channels that will reach this audience. Here are effective ways to promote your event:
Plan how you will handle admissions. You can provide online ticket sales for convenience for your audience, or you can use paper tickets for a more traditional event feel.
Your ticket prices need to be in line with other events in your area, considering your expenses to at least break even or, better yet, earn some income.
The big day has arrived! Here's a checklist to help you stay organized:
Engage with the audience post-film to leave footprints behind. You may also arrange a Q&A session or even host a panel discussion for much better interaction with the audience. You can take their opinion about what was good and what wasn't for creating better future events.
Lastly, review how well the event met the objectives and take this learning into your next screening.
Here are other tips that can help to make a successful film screening:
Organizing a film screening is not about just screening a movie; it is supposed to be an experience. By following the steps and tips described above, you can transform this simple screening into an event that will be remembered. Your success will depend on careful preparation, knowledge of your audience, and delivering your message with accuracy.