Muslim action against Poverty
How To...Organise a Documentary Film Screening

The Idea
To raise public awareness and understanding of the impact of global poverty issues through showing films which tell the real stories of indebted countries. Films can have a powerful impact and are a great way to encourage people and bring out the real impact of debt.

What Else You Will Need?

Decisions on your priorities - How many people are you trying to reach ?

A public venue capable of screening films - This could be a community centre, mosque, school hall or your local cinema.

Choosing A Film – Some Suggestions
Contact the TFI team for advice or local charities and governmental bodies

A task list - You will need to have people responsible for publicity, refreshments and materials at the event, and liaison with the venue.

Someone to introduce the film or say a few words at the end – you may want a slightly longer talk but remember that the film will be the most powerful part. But at the very least you will need someone to talk about the TFI poverty campaign and make clear that people can act on what they see.

An advance screening of the film – make sure you have seen it in advance, so you are aware of what questions might be asked afterwards, or what will need to be said in an introduction or closing speech.

TFI Campaign materials – including leaflets, reports with more info, action cards for people to take away or sign on the spot, and sign-up sheets so people can stay in touch. You can order these on our website or on the phone.

Publicising The Screening

Contact lists: try to think of as many different groups to whom you can publicise the film as possible, including:-

• Local press - they will be especially interested if an MP or other prominent local person is introducing the film
• The cinema’s own contact list
• Other TFI Campaign groups nearby
• Other charities may be willing to publicise the screening to their supporters.
• Your own contacts: mosques, schools, local organisations, etc.
• Draw in family and friends. Remember to invite family and friends, work colleagues, members of clubs you are part of, etc…..

Posters and leaflets: You can also prepare your own.

Reviews of the film – downloaded from websites, edited, and enlarged into poster size for easy reading. These can be left on coffee tables to stimulate discussion.