If you’re like me, you probably assumed those events were reserved for VIPs and journalists.
The reality is that virtually anyone can get complimentary tickets to early film showings. Studios often distribute free passes to build positive buzz and secure media attention ahead of a movie’s wide release.
3 Ways to Score Tickets to Advance Movie Screenings
Want to know how to obtain free entry to advance movie screenings? If you love films, the tips below could save you hundreds — maybe even thousands — on ticket costs.
1. Register with Gofobo
Create a free account at Gofobo, a platform where studios and PR agencies distribute advance screening passes directly to the public.
Why hand out free tickets? Studios understand that viewers who enjoy a film will spread the word — chatting with friends and sharing on social networks — which is invaluable word-of-mouth promotion.
Public screenings on Gofobo are open to all until tickets are gone. Private events usually require an exclusive RSVP code to attend.
Other helpful resources include SeeItFirst.net, which occasionally emails exclusive film opportunities to members, and AdvanceScreenings.com.
2. Follow PR Firms on Social Channels
Public relations companies frequently give away passes, prizes and invites to special previews to drum up excitement for upcoming releases.
Allied Global Marketing is a leading PR firm in this space. You can find them on Twitter at @AlliedGlobalMkg. Allied posts the latest Hollywood updates, trailers and promotional offers. If you’re already on social media, you might as well pick up some freebies while you scroll.
Sites such as Advance Movie Screenings and Wild About Movies also list advance screenings. Follow their Twitter and Facebook pages tailored to your city, state or region. These listings generally don’t require RSVP codes; tickets are allotted either by random draw or on a first-come, first-served basis.
3. Listen to Local Radio
Radio stations frequently give away movie passes. Check your nearby stations’ websites to see if they run VIP clubs or rewards programs.
Some stations let listeners earn points online by answering trivia or clicking sponsor links. Those points can be exchanged for movie tickets and other prizes. Sign up for station newsletters to stay notified about contests and giveaways.
How to Watch Movies for Free AND Make Money Doing It
Getting into screenings for free is great, but what if you could actually get paid to watch films?
At premieres, you can sometimes earn money by counting attendees and tracking which trailers played before the feature.
If you write, consider reviewing movies for a local publication or starting a film review blog and monetizing it with ads. There are numerous ways to make money from watching movies — get inventive!
What Else Should You Know?
Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before the screening begins. Note that the front rows are often reserved for press, and screenings can be overbooked. If you don’t show up early, you might be denied entry.
For my first advance screening, I showed up 20 minutes early and was surprised to see a long line already waiting at the box office.
After the film, you’ll likely be asked for feedback or to complete a survey. That’s your chance to tell the studio, screenwriters, directors, producers and cast what you thought of the movie!
Follow these steps and you should snag a pair of complimentary movie passes soon. With the money you’re saving on tickets, you won’t feel bad about treating yourself to some Gobstoppers. Enjoy the show!
Althea Clarke is a contributor to Savinly.
