Where should I host a film screening?

Aside from a cinema or theater, there are a number of venues you might choose for your film screening. If you’re hosting a screening for a charity or fundraising event, you might choose to book a community space, such as a town hall or public library. If your screening is part of a larger program of events, consider hosting the screening in a bar or café. Wherever you decide to host your screening, make sure the venue has good tech capabilities, seating, and accessibility.

How do I get a film screening license?

The best way to get a film screening license is to check with the distributor of the film in your country — this is usually easily found online — and search their catalog for rights to the film. Many distributors also have licenses for commercial and non-commercial screenings, so the type of license you require will likely depend on the event you’re running. The license cost is usually decided by the film’s release date — so if enough time has passed, the film may be in the public domain.

How long should a post-screening Q&A be?

A typical post-screening Q&A usually lasts around twenty minutes. You might also decide to add an extra ten minutes for audience questions at the end — so guests can take the opportunity to ask the filmmakers about their work.

How do I use Eventbrite?

Just sign up to create your account — and then start creating your events. Trusted by millions of attendees and creators around the world, Eventbrite makes it easy to create, manage, and promote your events on the world’s largest events marketplace. From email marketing to social media integration, you’ll discover advanced tools designed to help you sell more tickets and grow your business — all in one place. Discover more on how to use Eventbrite .

How to organize and promote a film screening event

Whether you’re screening the classics or creating a pop-up movie theater, discover all the tools — and tips — you need to delight all cinema connoisseurs.

All the tools you need to organize a film screening event

Design a memorable movie experience with our event creation and ticketing tools.

Customizable pages

Add flair to your film event. With our customizable templates, it’s easy to create beautifully designed event pages your guests will love.

Ticketing tools

With flexible custom tickets, mobile payment methods, and QR codes, our ticketing tools make it easy for guests to check out — and check in — in seconds.

Video platform integration

Host your film event — or post-screening Q&A — virtually using Eventbrite’s seamless video platform integration with Zoom and YouTube.

How to promote a film screening event

Fill every seat in the cinema with our leading marketing tools.

Social media

Shine a spotlight on your event with Eventbrite’s smart social media ads — and promote your screening on Facebook and Instagram for maximum visibility.

Email marketing

Showcase your movie program and reach engaged cinemagoers with our email marketing tools — including customizable templates and smart audience features.

Personalized recommendations

Find film fans easily on the world’s largest events marketplace, where millions of people look for local and unique things to do.

How to host a film screening

Capture the magic of the big screen and discover tips from our event experts on hosting the perfect movie night.

Choose a venue

From local independent cinemas to community halls, decide on a venue that suits your screening’s purpose — whether that’s fundraising for charity or showcasing new filmmaking talent.

Pick the film

An offbeat indie classic, a cult documentary, or a Hollywood blockbuster? When selecting your film, make sure to choose a title, genre, or director your audience will love.

Obtain a license

If you’re screening a film for public entertainment, don’t forget you’ll need a license from the copyright owner — you can usually acquire this from film distributors.

Consider refreshments

Treat guests to delicious refreshments before the screening with classic cinema snacks — think popcorn, pretzels, and ice cream — and a selection of drinks.

Amp up excitement

Make your film event extra special by including a post-screening Q&A with the director, whipping up movie-themed cocktails, or offering complimentary merchandise.

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