Getting your film into a film festival is an exciting feat. Now you have to figure out how to get people to come to your screening. Don’t worry though, we’ve searched the internet for some tips and tricks to make the process easier.
An article by Elliot Grove on Raindance.org explains that the first step is identifying your film’s theme. From there, you need to take this theme and use it to build your presence on the web.
Let’s start with social media. Through social media, you need to share articles and blog posts about your movie, run competitions, and use hashtags to get people excited about your awesome work!
Blogs are actually one of the best ways for your fans to form a personal connection with you and your film if done properly. According to Grove in his Raindance article, “you will be able to write over and over again how you managed to solve insurmountable problems that would swamp those of lesser ability.”
Ok, so you’re established online, now we move to more grassroots-type marketing. Start by hitting the streets with chalk, leaflets, posters, interviews, panel discussions and Q&A sessions.
Finally, we deal with the screening itself. In a recent interview with Film Trooper, writer/director Alex Petrovich shared some ideas on generating buzz about your film right before the screening. First thing is to invite your own friends and family. Have your cast and crew do the same to maximize the number of people that are there in support of the film.
Petrovich says to hold a party with everyone before hand to get attendees in a fun mood. Interview a couple people, the more content the better and be sure to document the event.
There’s always more you can do to help market your film screening, but hopefully, these tips will help you get on your way to maximizing exposure for the art you’ve created.
Looking for more tips like these? Check out our Resources page on our website!
