Organizing a Memorable Film Screening at Your School

Offer snacks and refreshments for sale at your movie night to raise funds.

Hosting a film screening at school can build a strong sense of togetherness, bringing students and their families together for an experience that forges enduring connections. However, these gatherings demand thorough preparation, since you must select an appropriate film and arrange for refreshments while ensuring that everyone is safe and at ease. The event doesn't have to take place in the evening either; a daytime movie activity works well for younger children.

Getting Ready for a School Movie Event

An early step when organizing a school movie day or night is picking a location. Keep in mind that you need adequate seating and a suitable screen. A 10-foot screen is suggested for audiences of 100 to 150, while a 16-foot screen is recommended for more than 500 attendees. Often, the school's auditorium will be sufficient.

Numerous schools opt to show films outside, which can work well when the weather is favorable. This approach won't be feasible during daylight hours, however, because the screen won't be visible. If the screening is outdoors, you may need to move all seating into the viewing area, and you'll also have to rent a screen if one isn't already available.

Selecting the Right Film

Newer releases tend to be more difficult to secure, so consider titles that have been out for a few years, such as "Despicable Me 3," "Sherlock Gnomes" or "A Wrinkle in Time." Around the holidays, audiences will enjoy "Frozen" or "Elf." For elementary-aged children, be sure to select only G-rated films. These can also be screened in classrooms provided you have the proper equipment.

Older students may not enjoy those movies, whether they're shown during a movie night or in class. If you're looking for classroom films for middle schoolers, think about "The Imitation Game," "The Color Purple" or "Freedom Writers." Other solid choices for the classroom or movie events include "Up," "Hidden Figures" and "Big Hero 6."

Obtaining the Films Legally

Showing these kinds of movies without a license is not allowed. Screening a copyrighted film for non-teaching school activities risks copyright infringement and financial penalties. Before showing the movie, you must buy a public performance site license, and there are several ways to go about it. The cost should not exceed $100, and it might cover multiple screenings.

You can ask the copyright holder about their procedure. In some cases, the movie's website offers this information, or you might need to get in touch with the distributor. There are also licensing services that simplify the process. Among the most recognized are Movie Licensing USA and Swank, which represent Walt Disney Studios, Warner Bros., DreamWorks Pictures and others. Criterion Pictures USA represents New Line Cinema, Columbia Pictures and some of the same studios as Movie Licensing USA and Swank.

Guidelines for a Smooth Movie Night

A successful movie night depends on having plenty of volunteers. The event should be advertised at least a month ahead, and selling tickets and food can transform it into a fundraiser. Set up committees for various areas, such as publicity, ticket sales, seating and more. Promote through flyers, emails and social media, and people will be eager to buy tickets.

Use bookkeeping software to monitor purchases and never sell more tickets than there are available seats. Ask parents to donate food to sell, which can make the fundraiser even more effective. You can adorn the venue with balloons or use holiday decorations when suitable. Also make sure to have volunteers who can serve as ushers, staff the refreshment stand and assist with setting up and operating the projector. Having some individuals serve as security during the event is also a good idea.