How is a ‘screening’ event different to a ‘premiere’?

A screening is usually a private event therefore, a red carpet for public viewing will not be accessible. Screenings tend to be strictly invite only so the only chances to attend, is to win your way in via competitions. Competitions will go live from one week to one day prior to a screening so make sure you regularly check social media for exclusive opportunities! Premieres on the other hand, is usually a public event where fans can gain access to crowd pens to see the stars walk the red carpet. More details on the exact ways you can attend a premiere can be found below!

How can I get invited to a screening?

Screenings can go by the name of ‘special screening’, ‘media screening’ and ‘fan screening’ but one thing they all have in common; to get on the guest list you must need to fit a category the distributors are looking for. You may be a social media influencer, a film critic, a member of the press or just a hardcore famous super-fan. Lucky individuals will be selected to attend depending on the audience required for the event.

How can I get tickets to see the film and walk the red carpet on premiere night?

To see the film on the night of the premiere, you must have a ticket to gain entry in the cinema. Tickets can be purchased from charities and agencies however, they will come at a hefty price. Another way to get tickets to a premiere is to win them so be sure to keep your eye out for competitions. If you’re lucky enough to have tickets, you’ll have to walk along the carpet to get into the venue so dress to impress, the cameras might be on you!

Will I need a wristband to be in the crowd pens?

Yes, wristbands are handed out at all premieres now therefore, you must have a wristband to gain entry in the crowd pens.

What time do I need to arrive to get a wristband?

The time you need to arrive to collect a wristband will differ for every premiere. This all depends on the scale of the film, how big of a fanbase it has, what celebrities will be attending etc. For films on a smaller scale such as ‘Daddy’s Home’ or ‘Red Sparrow’, you can turn up on the day to collect a wristband from any time early morning to midday or until the maximum wristband capacity has been reached. For films on a bigger scale such as ‘Mission: Impossible’ or ‘Justice League’, wristbands are sometimes handed out one day prior to the event as well as on the day of the event due to the crowd expectancies and the high-demand for fans to attend the premiere. If this is the case, the production company may announce how they will proceed on handing out wristbands. REMEMBER to check our website regularly for updates.

Where can I get a wristband?

You will be able to collect a wristband from a member of security. They will usually be surrounding the area of the venue and wearing a bright coloured piece of clothing so you can easily identify them.

How are wristbands handed out?

Wristbands are handed on a first-come, first-serve basis and are strictly one per person. Wristbands will be placed on your wrist at time of collection and are free of charge. Once you have collected your wristband, you can leave the area and return when the pens will be loaded (check with security for timings or stay nearby). Wristbands are usually numbered and can sometimes determine where you will be in the crowd pens as security will load the pens in number order where possible.

What happens if people camp overnight?

We do not recommend overnight camping but it does happen for some films which unfortunately, cannot be stopped.

Where is the best place to stand in the crowd pens to meet celebrities?

There is no ‘best’ place to stand in the crowd pens as it’s all down to luck when celebrities come towards you. If you’re near the drop-off point, the celebs could come straight to you from their cars. If you’re by the venue entrance, they could stop for you before they go in and if you’re somewhere along the middle, they could come over as they are back and forth the press line so there’s no specific place that will guarantee a meeting/picture/autograph opportunity.

What happens once I’m in the crowd pens?

Once you’ve entered the crowd pens and secured your spot, it’s best not to leave as it will be hard to get the same space on your return (unless you’re with a group of friends or trust the people you’ve become acquainted with). Try to go for any toilet breaks and get a bite to eat before the pens are loaded. You’ll be in the pens for a few hours at the least.

What should I take to a premiere?

Going to a premiere can be a long, tiring day but it’s worth-while when you get to meet your fav celebs for free. It’s best to always be prepared, especially in the cold weather – there is rarely ever shelter at a premiere as the carpet is outdoors so make sure you keep warm! You might find it helpful to take a portable charger with you and some food and drink to keep you going throughout the day. Keep your belongings small so you don’t have to worry about it being banned, it’s best to take a small bag and a small camera. Don’t forget to take an umbrella with you because you can never trust the British weather! You shouldn’t take a large camera with you as security can ban them if they think it will obstruct the red carpet or for any other purposes. The same goes with large bags so try to keep it small.

What are some general tips when attending a premiere as a crowd member?

Keep your belongings with you at all times. There will be no lockers or cloakrooms to put your belongings away. · Be friendly to the people around you. After all, you’ll be spending a fair amount of time with them and you’re there for similar reasons! · Don’t push and shove in the crowd pens. If there’s a specific celebrity you want to meet, maybe speak to those around you and figure out a system so you all get to take it in turns to be at the front.

What time will the celebrities arrive?

Talent will usually arrive between 5pm – 5:45pm. The doors to the cinema will close between 6pm – 6:30pm so celebrities can arrive from the time the doors open to the second the doors close! For premieres that take place on a weekend, talent can begin arriving from any time between 10am – 12:15pm. Weekend premieres are usually family friendly!

What are some general tips when attending a premiere as a crowd member?

Keep your belongings with you at all times. There will be no lockers or cloakrooms to put your belongings away. · Be friendly to the people around you. After all, you’ll be spending a fair amount of time with them and you’re there for similar reasons! · Don’t push and shove in the crowd pens. If there’s a specific celebrity you want to meet, maybe speak to those around you and figure out a system so you all get to take it in turns to be at the front.

What time does a premiere finish?

The doors to the cinema will often close around 6:45pm. People will leave the crowd pens around this time. Once the crowd has cleared, the carpet will be rolled back up and the barriers put away. By the time the screening finishes, it will be like the premiere never happened!

Please note: The information on this page is purely advice only and we have no involvement with the event organisers, security teams or venues hosting premieres. Our website is updated regularly as information is subject to change therefore, please check the website often to stay up-to-date. We take no responsibility for any event changes.