When it comes to public movie screenings, obtaining the proper licensing is crucial to avoid legal issues. While Video Librarian does not directly sell licenses for public screenings, several distributors and organizations specialize in this service. We provide all the information you need, making it easy to connect with these companies to ensure your movie screening events are a hit. Whether you're looking for a specific film, documentary, subject, or genre, we help you find the perfect match for your audience.
Swank Motion Pictures
Swank Motion Pictures is one of the most prominent players in the public performance licensing field. They offer a comprehensive selection of movies from major studios like Disney, Warner Bros., Paramount, and many others. Swank provides licensing solutions for a wide range of venues including schools, libraries, parks, and community centers. Their extensive catalog and streamlined process make it easy for organizations to find and license the films they need for public screenings.
Indie & Educational Film Distributors
To obtain the necessary licenses for public movie screenings, you need to reach out directly to the distributors. This typically involves visiting the distributor's website and contacting their licensing or sales department via email or phone. Be prepared to provide details about your planned screening, including the venue, audience size, and date, to receive a quote and further instructions. Prompt communication will help ensure you secure public performance rights in a timely manner.
To explore a comprehensive list of distributors for public movie screenings, visit our distributor database on the Video Librarian website.
Film Movement
- Film Movement is known for distributing award-winning independent and international films. They offer public performance licenses for their collection, which includes critically acclaimed features and shorts from around the world.
Kino Lorber
- Kino Lorber is a leading distributor of arthouse, classic, and independent films. They offer public performance rights for many of their titles, making them a go-to for those seeking unique and thought-provoking cinema for public exhibitions.
Indie Rights
- Indie Rights provides a platform for independent filmmakers to distribute their work. They offer public performance licenses, allowing venues to screen a variety of indie films that might not be available through mainstream distributors.
Grasshopper Film
- Grasshopper Film is an independent distributor focusing on high-quality documentary and narrative films. They offer public performance licenses for their curated selection of critically acclaimed films.
Bullfrog Films
Bullfrog Films is a leading source of environmental and social justice films. They offer public performance rights for educational institutions, libraries, and community groups.
New Day Films
- New Day Films is a cooperative of independent filmmakers who distribute social issue documentaries and educational films. They provide public performance licenses for a wide range of topics.
Alexander Street Press
- Alexander Street Press specializes in streaming media and academic content. They offer public performance licenses for educational documentaries, films, and instructional videos.
Women Make Movies
- Women Make Movies is a non-profit organization that focuses on films made by and about women. They offer public performance rights for their extensive collection of documentaries and narratives.
Media Education Foundation
- Media Education Foundation produces and distributes documentary films that explore critical issues in contemporary society. They provide public performance licenses for educational settings and community organizations.
Dark Star Pictures
- Dark Star Pictures is a boutique distribution company specializing in edgy and provocative cinema. With a focus on genre-defying films, they bring audiences a selection of daring and thought-provoking narratives. From thrilling horror to mind-bending sci-fi, Dark Star Pictures offers a curated lineup that pushes the boundaries of storytelling.
Licensing Process
The process for obtaining a public performance license typically involves selecting the desired film from the distributor’s catalog and contacting the licensing department to request a quote. The cost of the license can vary based on several factors, including the type of venue, the expected audience size, and the specific film being screened. It is important to plan ahead, as securing the rights can take some time, especially for popular titles or during peak seasons.
Conclusion
While Video Librarian itself does not provide licensing for public movie showings, these distribution and licensing companies can ensure you can legally and successfully host public film screenings for a variety of venues (community centers, libraries, museums, etc.) whether you are showing blockbuster hits or independent gems.