360 Screenings is an immersive screening series inspired by a similar screening series in the UK, brought to Toronto by Ned Loach and Robert Gontier. Just what makes 360 Screenings more different and exciting from other events in the city?

I had a chance to chat with Loach & Gonthier to find out more. They both like to use the word immersive when describing the event because the premise is that it allows us, the audience, to take part in the film. They choose previously released films from a “master list,” as they call it, to set things off. The audience does not find out the film selection nor the location until 24 hours prior to the event. Their first event was in August of this year; to a great response from the audience.

Robert Gontier

As they explained the process, both Loach and Gontier have contributed to the master list. They work on organizing more than one event at the same time given they need to secure a location, plan out the evening, hire the actors, other staff, and so on. The “hook,” as Gontier describes, is choosing a film they both love. The idea is to share the experience with others who love the film and with those who many have never seen or heard of it. The location is always a heritage building to encourage people to enjoy some of the interesting architecture our city has to offer. And the setting is also aimed at “showcasing the building in a way that it relates to the film,” emphasizes Loach.

Ned Loach

“The attendees are extra characters in the film,” shared Gointier. And in that sense, “the experience starts as soon as you arrive,” continued Loach. Along with location information, attendees receive suggestions with regards to attire, optional of course. The attire helps in making the experience more tangible; it gets people involved, making the entire experience more fun.

In preparation for the actual evening, Gontier looks after the theatre/performance part of things. Theatre is his background and he is currently a professor at Sheridan College. This allows him access to actors, create a script, and coach the team on how the evening will ‘play’ out. Loach looks after the coordinating part in terms of organizing sponsors and others involved the night of.

In moving forward, I was curious as to the film selections. Would Gontier and Loach consider non-English language films? They both said they’re open to the idea and have some foreign films in their list. As Loach explains, “we want to build trust [with the audience] first.” They also pointed out that securing a location first is most important in terms of which film will play at the event. Another interesting point about location is the fact they only get the venue for 48 hours. This means they have little time to set up for the event, dismantle, and clean up right after the event ends.

When taking all this into account 360 Screenings is more than just a night at the movies. It’s like a movie and theatre night out, all packed into one! The ticket prices are reasonable when considering the effort it takes from planning to execution. If you’re a student, an artist, or a culture seeker, take advantage for the $40 ticket price. This will be a new and refreshing way to discover or rediscover a new favourite film.

360 SCREENINGS: HALLOWE’EN EDITION
DATE: Wednesday, October 24th, 7pm.
COST: $60 – $40 for students/culture seekers
TICKETS:  360screenings.com
LOCATION: *Secret* until 24 hours in advance