How to Get Tickets to Free Movie Screenings

Have you ever wanted to screen a movie before it is released to the public? Have you ever wondered how you can get invited to a free movie screening? It is easier than you think, especially if you live near a big city.

When we lived in California, I often screened movies for free. I loved seeing the movies before they were released…and then I enjoyed seeing them again after they were released to see what, if anything, was changed. Most of the movies were great, but one movie that we saw was pretty boring. We were questioned afterwards and the audience gave feedback both in on questionnaires and in a Q & A session. Based on our reaction, the movie was pulled, completely reworked, and not released until a year later. Even though the movie we screened wasn’t that good, it was incredibly fun to be a (very small) part of making it better.

3 Resources to Find Free Tickets for Movie Screenings

GoFoBo – To find a screening in your area, enter your zip code, how far you are willing to drive, and the movie you want to see in the box in the top, left corner.

GetScreening.com – To find a screening in your area, click on the state you live in, and then click on Get Free Movie Screening Tickets on the movie you want to see, then scroll down to your city.

AdvanceScreening – This is a forum maintained by the public that provides information about screenings.

What to Expect at Free Movie Screenings:

Check each website to find available movies in your location. You can set up an account with the websites to receive email notifications, but be warned that you may be overwhelmed by emails. I recommend following them on Facebook instead.

Arrive early! You should usually plan on arriving at least an hour early. There are limited free tickets and they are usually handed out on a first come, first served basis.

Do not bringing any recording devices and plan on leaving your phone in the car. They will check bags for recording devices to ensure that the movie isn’t leaked.

Check the age requirements before showing up. Do not try to bring children in who are part of the intended audience. You may be denied tickets.  Also be aware that at some screening for movies for kids, they will only allow one parent per family.

Plan to stay for a short time after the  movie. Sometimes you will be asked to stay after the movie and fill out a questionnaire. Sometimes you will be asked to stay and participate in a discussion after the movie. Occasionally you will be asked to do both.

Some of these movies do not have ratings or reviews yet, so it is a gamble. You are not spending any money, so try to have a good attitude about the experience even if you don’t enjoy the movie. However, if you are asked to stay and give your opinion, be honest. It may help them improve the movie or change their marketing strategy.

Look for a person handing out fliers about future free screenings while you are standing in line to get into the movie or as you exit the theater.

Since you have a long wait to get into the movie, chat with the fellow movie goers. They are often a great resource for discovering future movie screenings.

Enjoy!

I now live near the Biggest Little City in the world, which Hollywood just views as a little city, so few advance movie screenings come to our area. But we still save money on movies by taking advantage of the Summer Movie Programs for Kids.

Thanks to More with Less Money for reminding me of this frugal and fun resource!