Letterboxd thrives on its comprehensive database of films. Adding a movie ensures you can log it, rate it, review it, and share your cinematic experiences with the community. Here’s a definitive guide on how to contribute to this vibrant platform and make your favorite, or even obscure, films discoverable by fellow cinephiles.
Why Contribute to Letterboxd?
The beauty of Letterboxd lies in its collaborative nature. While the platform boasts an extensive catalog, gaps inevitably exist. Contributing by adding a missing film doesn’t just benefit you; it enriches the entire community. It allows others to:
- Discover films they might otherwise miss.
- Track and share their own viewing experiences.
- Engage in discussions and connect over shared cinematic passions.
Moreover, by ensuring the accuracy and completeness of the Letterboxd database, you contribute to the platform’s overall credibility and utility as a resource for film enthusiasts. So, how do you actually add a movie?
The Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
Adding a movie to Letterboxd is straightforward, though it requires adherence to specific guidelines to maintain database integrity.
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Confirm the Film’s Absence: Before initiating the addition, thoroughly search Letterboxd. Use various spellings, alternative titles (especially original titles), and different release years. The search bar is your first line of defense against duplicates.
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Access the Add Movie Form: If your search proves fruitless, navigate to the “Add a Film” page. This is typically found in the “More” section of the website’s navigation or in the app’s menu.
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Provide Essential Information: The form requires several key pieces of information. Accuracy is paramount:
- Title: The official title of the film.
- Original Title (if different): Include the original title if the film was released under a different name in its country of origin.
- Year: The year the film was originally released theatrically, not the year it was shown on television or re-released.
- Country of Origin: The primary country where the film was produced.
- Language: The film’s primary language.
- Genres: Select the most appropriate genres for the film.
- Runtime: Provide the film’s official runtime in minutes.
- Description (Optional but Recommended): A brief synopsis of the film is highly encouraged. This helps other users quickly understand the film’s premise.
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Adding Credits (Optional but Encouraged): Including the director, cast, and other key crew members significantly enhances the film’s entry. While not mandatory, it greatly contributes to the database’s value.
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Submit Your Request: Once you’ve filled out the form with accurate information, submit your request.
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Verification Process: Letterboxd moderators review all submissions to ensure accuracy and prevent duplicates. This process can take some time, so be patient. You will typically receive an email notification upon approval or rejection.
Tips for Successful Submissions
To maximize your chances of having your movie submission approved, consider these tips:
- Provide Reliable Sources: Cite your sources, such as IMDb, Wikipedia, or official film websites, in the submission notes. This demonstrates that you’ve done your research.
- Be Patient: The moderation process can take time, especially for lesser-known films.
- Avoid Speculation: Only provide information that you can verify. Avoid making assumptions or guesses.
- Use Proper Formatting: Pay attention to capitalization and punctuation. This makes your submission easier to review.
- Consider Adding a Poster: While not directly within the submission process, providing a link to a potential poster image in the submission notes can be helpful. Moderators often source posters from reputable online databases.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions related to adding movies to Letterboxd:
How Long Does It Take for a Movie to Be Approved?
Approval times vary depending on the volume of submissions and the complexity of the film. Mainstream movies are typically reviewed faster than obscure or independent films. Expect anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks.
What Happens if My Submission is Rejected?
If your submission is rejected, you’ll receive an email explaining the reason. Common reasons include:
- The movie already exists in the database (perhaps under a different title).
- The information provided was inaccurate or incomplete.
- The film doesn’t meet Letterboxd’s eligibility criteria (e.g., not a feature-length film).
Carefully review the reason for rejection and correct any errors before resubmitting.
Can I Add Short Films to Letterboxd?
Generally, Letterboxd focuses on feature-length films. While there are exceptions for particularly notable short films, the platform isn’t intended to be a comprehensive database of every short ever made. Check Letterboxd’s guidelines for their current policy.
What if I Find a Mistake in an Existing Movie Entry?
You cannot directly edit existing movie entries. Instead, use the “Report Data Error” button on the film’s page. This alerts the moderators to the issue, and they will investigate and correct the information if necessary. Accuracy is paramount.
How Do I Know if a Movie is Already on Letterboxd?
Use the search bar effectively. Try different variations of the title, including the original title, alternate titles, and different release years. Be as thorough as possible. Use advanced search operators if necessary.
Can I Add Documentaries to Letterboxd?
Yes, documentaries are welcome additions to Letterboxd, provided they meet the general eligibility criteria. Ensure you specify the “Documentary” genre when submitting.
What About TV Movies or Miniseries?
Letterboxd generally prioritizes theatrical releases. TV movies and miniseries are less commonly added, but exceptions are sometimes made for particularly significant or influential productions. Again, checking the guidelines is crucial.
Can I Add a Film That Hasn’t Been Officially Released Yet?
No. Letterboxd requires the film to have had an official theatrical release (even a limited one) before it can be added. This prevents premature entries and ensures accurate information.
What if I Don’t Know the Exact Release Year?
Provide the best estimate you can. If you’re unsure, indicate that in the submission notes and explain why you’re unsure. Moderators can research the correct year.
What if a Film Has Multiple Release Dates in Different Countries?
Use the original theatrical release date in the country of origin. This is the most important release date for Letterboxd’s purposes.
How Important is Adding Credits?
While not mandatory, adding credits significantly enhances the film’s entry. It makes the database more comprehensive and allows other users to easily find films by specific actors, directors, and crew members. Make it a priority if possible.
What Kind of Films are Least Likely to Be Approved?
Films that are unlikely to be approved include:
- Short films (unless exceptionally notable).
- Home movies.
- Unofficial or unreleased films.
- Films with dubious origins or unclear copyright status.
- Films that are already in the database under a different title.
By following these guidelines and answering these common questions, you can effectively contribute to Letterboxd and help build a more comprehensive and valuable resource for film lovers worldwide. Remember to prioritize accuracy and patience, and enjoy the process of sharing your cinematic discoveries with the community.