Hosting a film discussion (Part 4): After the credits roll

In my previous post, I suggested that the best way of structuring a film night is the discussion format. Yet in my experience the hardest part of a film night is working hard so that people not only want to stay around, but also they share opinions. I’ve been to several evenings when guests have filed out as soon as the credits have started rolling. What can be done?

In my opinion, this is where a little thought can make a big difference. There’s a big difference between a dull, large, vacuous lecture theatre and a room that’s well lit and comfortable. Even better if it’s someone’s front room or lounge. Sometimes only pretty drab rooms are available but I’ve seen CUs make them feel much nicer with a few bean bags and fairy lights. You’d be amazed the different that a nice environment makes to encouraging people to stay around and relaxing. And the more relaxed people feel, the more willing they’ll be to chat.

Here are a few more tips:

• Explain before the film that there will be a discussion afterwards. Reassure those there that they don’t need to be film experts but that everyone will have a chance to speak about how they feel about the film, and that there will be a chance to explore some of its themes.
  
• Have refreshments made available at the end of the film. Food is ideal – folk are much more likely to stay around to chat if its over pizza. If hot food isn’t available, then cookies or doughnuts do almost as nice a job. Hot drinks will also encourage people to stay – again, not skimping heremakes a difference. Who can resist a hot, creamy hot chocolate?
• Put on some soft music. Again, a nice ambience can be easily created. You might even find that it’s possible to play the film’s sound track.
• Have a short break before starting the discussion. It’s good to allow people time to grab food ordrink, nip to the loo and begin to process what they’ve seen. If there’s been an emotional ending, it’s particularly important to allow those there a few minutes to gather their thoughts.
• Announce how long the discussion will go on for. It’s helpful to give people a definite end time. Twenty minutes of group discussion is more than enough. Those who want to chat for longer can, whilst those who need to head away to finish a last minute essay can do so too!
• Close by saying what’s coming next. There’s no harm in announcing what else the CU is hosting, the next film that’s up for discussion or the pub that everyone is decamping to!

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