Launceston Film Society

See also “Administrative arrangements” page.

Film Selection – How are the films selected?

What if I want to suggest a film? It is the committee who selects the films from recent releases and it is our policy to select films of merit, including foreign films, and to avoid films already screened in Launceston. The films must already be available in the country, and with a film distributor who is happy to do business with us. There are increasing numbers of films available only on DVD and this method of projection is not yet available at the Village Cinemas in Launceston. Members are welcome to send us suggestions for films; but please note that we are aware of films that are reviewed in the press and on TV. It is the films that slip beneath the radar that we are most happy to learn about.

Waiting List – How does someone get on the waiting list?

The popularity of the LFS means most members renew their membership year after year. However, following membership renewals in November each year, 150-200 places usually become available. People wishing to go on the waiting list for LFS membership can email their details to lfs@lfs.org.au The membership issued is for one person only so if a couple, please specify, when sending the email to go on the waiting list. You will be contacted by email when an offer of membership becomes available. Please note, there are always more names on the waiting list than places.

Foyer in the cinema – Why do we have to queue?

LFS screenings commence at 6pm and members queue for entry in the foyer. Entry is usually available after 5.30pm but delays can occur when another film is still screening or cleaning of the theatre is in progress. Before admission to the screenings there is sometimes congestion in the foyer and Village management has asked that we queue away from the entrance to the theatres so that patrons leaving can have easy egress. The LFS and the Village Cinema have had a long and mutually beneficial partnership without which the LFS could not exist in its present form.

Guest membership – Can I obtain a guest membership?

We regret that guest memberships are not available. Guest memberships breach the Tasmanian Federation of Film Societies (TFOFS) rules and our LFS constitution. They are also unfair to those on the waiting list. We sought clarification from The Australian Council of Film Societies (ACOFS) regarding guest memberships for Film Societies and were advised that membership to a Film Society must be issued in the name of an individual person who has applied for membership.

Number of members – How many members in the LFS? Can it be increased to reduce the waiting list?

In 2011 we have 1351 members, an increase of 351 from 2005. However, the largest theatre in the Village complex holds around 400 people, making a maximum of 1200 per week for the three sessions. This means a seat cannot always be guaranteed at any screening. The introduction of the scanner last year is providing us with data on attendance figures to assist us with managing membership numbers.

The Electronic Scanner – Why is my membership card scanned?

Scanning of the cards provides the committee with information about attendance at screenings. The only information on the card is your name and membership number. Each membership is valid for use (by the member) for one screening per week. If you do not have your card, someone will be there with a member list to sort out the problem Rest assured that if you are a paid-up member you will be able to see the movie. But please understand you may be delayed entry while other members are admitted.

Problems – What do I do if the film is out of focus or the subtitles are below the screen?

If such problems occur, this will usually be addressed by the committee member (s) in the back row. If any other problems occur, please talk with a committee member and we will attempt to resolve it.

The LFS Committee – How do I become a committee member?

The committee is elected at the Annual General Meeting held in February each year. Members of the LFS may nominate a position. If you feel you have something to offer the LFS speak to one of the committee about nominating. The committee seeks people with office and computer skills to run the business of the society. Meetings are in the evening once a month and there are many administrative task to attend to between meetings..