What is it called when you watch a movie before it comes out?

Watching a movie before its official release is commonly referred to as attending an early screening or a pre-release screening. More specifically, it can be known as a sneak preview, test screening, press screening, or a premiere, depending on the context and audience.

Understanding Sneak Previews

A sneak preview is a common way for the general public to see a film before its wide release. These screenings are often unannounced until shortly before they occur and typically require the usual charge for admission. Their primary purpose is to generate early buzz, gauge audience reaction, and sometimes fine-tune marketing strategies based on feedback.

Types of Early Screenings

Beyond sneak previews, various other types of early screenings serve different purposes in the film industry:

• Test Screenings:

  • Purpose: These are held for a select, often non-industry, audience to gather feedback on the film's plot, pacing, characters, and ending. The insights gained can influence final edits, reshoots, or even marketing campaigns.
  • Audience: Typically random individuals recruited by market research firms, who are asked to fill out questionnaires or participate in focus groups after the viewing.
  • Access: Usually by invitation only, with strict non-disclosure agreements.

• Press and Critic Screenings:

  • Purpose: Held specifically for film journalists, critics, and reviewers. This allows them sufficient time to watch the film and write their reviews, which are then published closer to the official release date.
  • Audience: Accredited members of the media.
  • Access: Invitation-only, often requiring media credentials.

• Promotional/Fan Screenings:

  • Purpose: Designed to generate excitement and word-of-mouth among dedicated fans and influencers. These are part of a film's marketing strategy to build grassroots momentum.
  • Audience: Often contest winners, members of fan clubs, or loyal cinema patrons.
  • Access: Through contests, loyalty programs, or special invitations.

• Premieres:

  • Purpose: The official debut of a film, often a star-studded event with red carpet appearances by the cast, crew, and celebrities.
  • Audience: Industry professionals, invited guests, celebrities, and sometimes contest winners.
  • Access: Highly exclusive, typically by invitation only.

Why Do Films Have Early Screenings?

Filmmakers and studios utilize early screenings for several strategic reasons:

• Gathering Feedback: For test screenings, audience reactions help refine the final cut, ensuring the film resonates effectively.
• Generating Buzz: Positive word-of-mouth from sneak previews, fan screenings, and early reviews can significantly impact box office performance.
• Marketing and PR: Press screenings are crucial for securing reviews and media coverage, while premieres create a major public relations event.
• Building Anticipation: Early access creates a sense of exclusivity and excitement, encouraging more people to see the film upon its official release.

How to Attend an Early Screening

While some screenings are exclusive, there are ways the general public can potentially attend:

• Contests and Giveaways: Many media outlets, film studios, and local cinemas run contests offering tickets to advance screenings.
• Loyalty Programs: Joining cinema loyalty programs can sometimes grant access to special member-only previews.
• Film Festivals: Attending major film festivals often provides opportunities to see films before their general release, as many new movies premiere at these events.
• Online Communities: Websites and social media groups dedicated to film often share information about upcoming early screening opportunities.

Overview of Early Screening Types

Attending an early screening offers a unique opportunity to be among the first to experience a new film, often contributing to the initial buzz and anticipation surrounding its official debut.