About Movie Screenings
Movie screenings are advanced showings of unreleased movies, often used to generate buzz surrounding upcoming movies and to get feedback from audience members. These screenings are generally free and can be invitation-only or open to the public. Finding local screenings is fairly easy, especially if you live in or near a big city.
Movies That are Screened
Not all movies are screened. Those that are expected to do moderately well are often the most screened, as studios are eager to gauge audience reactions when making promotional and release region decisions. Movies that are expected to be blockbuster hits are also frequently screened to build word-of-mouth hype before an official release.
Finding a Screening
There are several ways to find movie screenings. The easiest way is to listen to your local radio station. Radio stations often sponsor large-scale movie screenings and invite listeners to call in or log onto their Website to find out more about getting tickets to these screenings. Local newspapers also promote movie screenings in this manner. Another way to find out about local movie screenings is to check on different third-party Websites. Sites like Film Metro and FreeMovieScreenings.net offer updated lists of movie screenings and often have links with ticketing information.
Types
There are two basic types of movie screenings: invite-only and open. Invite-only screenings are those in which those who wish to attend must submit their information to the screening party and wait to receive an invitation. These screenings often target different demographics, which is why invitation requests may ask questions about your ethnic/economic background. Open screenings are often not advertised and are promoted through word of mouth. These screenings are often held at very large theaters, and tickets are usually distributed using a "first-come, first served" method.
Tips for Getting In
Because movie screenings are not easy to get to, here are some general tips to observe when trying to attend.
If the movie is invite-only:
*Answer the invite questionnaire as honestly as possibly, even if your answers do not fit the "target" demographic of the movie.
* Follow up with someone involved with the screening. There will often be a "contact us" e-mail somewhere on the invite. When the screening is about a week away, begin inquiring.
* Don't accept rejection. If you receive a notice that you were not invited, inquire about upcoming screenings that you may qualify for. Don't be afraid to be persistent.
If the movie is open:
*Make sure to get to the screening at least two hours before the screening, trhee to four hours if the movie is very popular.
*Leave all of your electronics at home. If you have so much as a cameraphone in your pocket if a movie is overbooked, the screening facility can dismiss you with no questions asked.
Warning
While getting into a movie screening is fun, it is not the most important thing in the world. If you see that a screening is obviously overbooked or there are lots of hostile people waiting in line, it is better to skip the screening rather than risk your health. Never participate in an open screening where running to the movie theater is encouraged or permitted.
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