If you are asking yourself these questions you will probably be a fabulous host
Hosting an LMFF Community isn't a breeze, but it doesn't have to be a nightmare either. If your head is full of doubts then read on... you're probably exactly the right person!
Why £50?
Of course one of the first questions you have to ask is - is this good value and can I afford it? We've even had people ask us why we don't charge more! £50 really isn't expensive - other festivals charge a heck of a lot more and you are probably getting a pre-decided reel, and it may even have a few old films on. All our films are on this year's festival circuit, and you get to pick your own from the entire list. So why is it suspiciously cheap? Well, to be honest unlike commercial events we are in this for the social impact. Our past events careers are over, so now we just want to support other people hosting events by helping with content - thing is, you have to be raising money for good causes to work with us - so what would be the point in charging too much and eating into your fundraising?
How do I choose the films?
In a practical sense you do this online through the month of January. All the films are loaded up onto a viewing platform that you get access to. But we know what you're thinking - one month isn't long to watch over 100 films and you have a day job. The reality is that you won't be able to watch all the films all the way through, so... we suggest you watch the first minute of each one and make notes about what appealed. There are a number of ways you can whittle it down after that - but we really recommend you scratch the surface of each film to give yourself an overview of what's on the menu. It's also a good idea to keep an eye on our social media and blog posts to see what we are giving mentions to - we think we have a good handle on what people will like so you can follow our lead. But in the end, your best guide is yourself - pick the films that you like the most and there is a strong chance your community will like them too!
Will I be out of my comfort zone?
Absolutely! That's the point! You're in this because you like adventures so why not think of this as an adventure? People have told us that hosting an event has been 'freeing' or 'nerve-wracking'. You have to put yourself out there, probably do an introduction on stage, persuade friends to help you out, take a little financial risk... these are all things that can wake you up in the night. But they can also get you out of bed in the morning! You've got this. The biggest risk to any event is that the content won't be good enough but that is not a problem in this case. We have great films and our feedback on films is excellent. If you get the basics right you will be fine - make sure your venue matches your audience and the equipment works - make sure you spread the word - make sure you have the support of those around you. Most importantly, be confident your community loves outdoors adventures. And when you pull it off - seriously, it's real buzz putting on an inspirational event!
How do the films arrive?
Once you've picked your films and arranged them in the order you want to show them you press the button and we receive the order. Then we make your reel - so if it's less than 90 minutes of films it comes as one file, and if it's over 90 minutes it comes as two files so you can have a break in proceedings. It's a .mov file so can be played on a PC, laptop, windows, mac etc. You just need to plug your device into a projector and sound system. You will be sent a link to download the file - usually within a day or two of submitting the request. You can always run a test but we have never had anyone say they couldn't play their reel. Oh and once your event is over you can delete the file - you've only bought the licence to show it in our festival time frame.
How much should I charge?
Great question. Pricing is everything and a small difference on the ticket can make a big difference overall. In a nutshell, £5 is undervaluing the experience and £20 is probably a bit toppy. Between those numbers and you should ask yourself what it costs to go to your local cinema? What have similar events charged at this venue? How committed is the audience to your non profit project? Are you providing any other experience in addition to films? Free pies? You should be quietly confident. Imagine what it would cost to drive to a festival, rent a room and pay for tickets to see the same films? This festival has come to you, that means it's good value, so be assured.
What else can I add to the experience?
Raffle prizes or giveaways are a great way to create some buzz. If there's a local outdoors shop, or a bike shop, or a gear shop, then why not hit them up for some goodies? You could always pop their logo on your poster, give them a mention on socials, or thank them with all your heart on the night. Businesses like this love the chance to get involved in local community events. Another good idea is to pull in local athletes if you know any who may have a link to one or more of the films. Some folk are more than happy to chat about their sport and comment on what they have watched. And thirdly, many of our hosts have pushed the boat out to make the event a bit cosier - a bit of welcoming music, a few comfy deck chairs or bean bags, nice soft lighting. Food, drinks, the usual stuff! And make sure all your friends are there chatting to people as they arrive.
What if nobody comes?
We've all had that anxiety dream! Not all Community Events have been successful it is true, but it's less than 10% that run into trouble and even then it is very rare to hear of a cancellation. We always say that if nobody is there then there is nothing to worry about! 100 people there and there's a power cut - now THAT is an anxiety dream!
If your community is into adventure, and you get the basics right, then it will work. We believe in you!
