How to Plan Your Schedule at a Film Festival Without Missing the Best Screenings

Going to a Film Festival can feel exciting especially when there are screenings, talks, workshops and chances to meet people at the same time. With a planning you can enjoy the best moments without feeling overwhelmed.

Start With the Program

As soon as the schedule is announced look over the entire catalogue. At Film Festivals many Films compete for your attention so pick the ones you absolutely must see premieres, award nominees and titles that have a guest Q&A. If a title is new to you a quick search in a Film Encyclopedia can show you the director’s movies and help you decide.

Prioritize and Build Backups

Put your choices in order: must?see, want?to?see. If time allows. Popular showings fill up quickly so always have a backup for the time. If you miss your choice you will still have something else to enjoy.

Leave Breathing Room

Do not schedule Films one after another in venues. Give yourself 30 to 45 minutes for walking waiting in line and grabbing a coffee. Watching four films a day feels better than trying to cram in seven and forgetting them all.

Mix Screenings With Talks and Networking

Film Festivals are not about watching. Panels, master classes and a Film Forum let you hear directly from Filmmakers about how they create. These talks give clues you will not find in a review. If you work in the business these events are places to meet producers, critics, programmers and distributors and to make relationships that stay after the last night.

Leave Room for Unexpected Discoveries

One of the parts of a Film Festival is finding a film you did not plan to see. Keep a few slots in your schedule for suggestions, surprise showings or films that catch your eye while you wander the festival.

You can also use a Film Encyclopedia to learn more about directors, genres, actors and key film movements before you go.

Take Care of Yourself

Pack water, snacks, a jacket for cool theatres and a portable charger. Comfortable shoes matter more than you think when you are on your feet from morning, to midnight.

Create a Flexible Daily Plan

At the start of each day look over your schedule and confirm the times and places of each film. Keep copies of your tickets and program information handy. Importantly stay flexible. A well?planned Film Festival schedule gives you structure while still leaving space for surprise discoveries.

With planning you can see memorable Films meet talented filmmakers talk to Film Professionals and enjoy everything the festival offers.