Landing a genuine movie poster from a theater is a dream for collectors and film enthusiasts alike, but it’s not as simple as walking in and asking. Building relationships with theater staff, understanding release cycles, and knowing the right etiquette are key to successfully acquiring these prized pieces of cinematic history.
The Elusive Quest: Securing Your Own Movie Poster
The burning question: How do you actually get movie posters from theaters? The short answer: it requires a blend of patience, timing, and respectful communication. Unlike retail posters sold online, those displayed in theaters are often considered promotional materials owned by the studios. While outright theft is obviously illegal and unethical, there are legitimate ways to increase your chances of obtaining one once its theatrical run is over.
The best approach is to cultivate a relationship with theater employees, particularly managers. Regular patronage, friendly conversation, and genuine interest in film will make you memorable. Asking politely, at the right time (after the film’s box office run), is essential. Keep in mind that availability is never guaranteed, and posters may be returned to the distributor or discarded.
Building Relationships and Knowing the Ropes
Beyond simply asking, successful movie poster acquisition hinges on strategy. Think like a movie insider (or at least act like one).
Cultivating Theater Connections
- Become a Regular: Visit your local theaters frequently, not just when you want a poster. This shows your support for the cinema and gives you more opportunities to interact with staff.
- Engage with Employees: Strike up conversations about movies, the theater, and even their roles. Be friendly and approachable. Knowing names and showing genuine interest goes a long way.
- Respect their Time: Don’t interrupt employees during busy periods. Choose less hectic times, like early afternoons or weekdays, to inquire about posters.
Mastering the Art of the Ask
- Timing is Everything: Inquire after the movie’s run has ended or is nearing its end. Asking while the film is still actively playing is generally frowned upon.
- Be Specific: Specify the poster you’re interested in. “Do you think you’ll have the Barbie poster available when its run ends?” is better than “Got any posters I can have?”
- Offer Assistance: Offer to help them take down the posters yourself, carefully and without causing damage. This shows your commitment and respect.
- Be Prepared for Rejection: Understand that they may not be able to give you a poster. Accept their decision gracefully and thank them for their time. Don’t pressure them.
Understanding Release Cycles and Theater Practices
- Know the Release Schedule: Stay informed about upcoming movie releases and their expected run times. This allows you to anticipate when posters might become available.
- Recognize Distributor Ownership: Remember that the posters often belong to the film studios or distributors, not the theater itself. This can affect their ability to give them away.
- Observe Theater Disposal Methods: Some theaters discard posters directly, while others might offer them to employees first. Observing their practices can give you insights.
Beyond the Local Cinema: Alternative Avenues
While building relationships with theater staff is the most common approach, explore these alternative options for securing movie posters.
Online Communities and Auctions
- Join Film Fan Forums: Online communities dedicated to film collecting often have members who are willing to trade or sell posters.
- Monitor Online Auction Sites: Platforms like eBay are a popular place to find movie posters, but authenticity can be a concern.
- Research Poster Dealers: Reputable online dealers specialize in selling original movie posters. They offer guaranteed authenticity, but prices are typically higher.
Direct Contact with Studios
- Reach Out to Studios’ Marketing Departments: Although less likely to yield results, contacting the marketing departments of film studios might lead to opportunities for promotional materials.
- Attend Film Festivals and Conventions: These events often feature exclusive posters and opportunities to meet filmmakers and distributors.
FAQs: Your Burning Movie Poster Questions Answered
Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about obtaining movie posters from theaters:
FAQ 1: Is it legal to take a movie poster from a theater without permission?
Absolutely not. Taking a poster without authorization is considered theft and could have legal consequences. Always seek permission.
FAQ 2: What’s the best time to ask for a movie poster?
The ideal time is shortly after the movie’s run has ended or is clearly winding down. Asking while the film is still actively in theaters is generally a no-go.
FAQ 3: Which theater employee should I talk to about getting a poster?
Managers are usually your best bet, as they have the authority to make decisions about promotional materials. Assistant managers are also a good option.
FAQ 4: What if they say they have to return the posters to the distributor?
Respect their decision. Some studios require posters to be returned. There’s nothing you can do in this situation.
FAQ 5: Are the posters in the display cases different from the ones on the walls?
Yes, the posters in display cases are often double-sided or printed on heavier stock, making them more valuable. These are also less likely to be given away.
FAQ 6: How much are original movie posters from theaters typically worth?
The value varies greatly depending on the movie, the poster’s condition, its rarity, and its format (e.g., one-sheet, advance poster). Some can fetch hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
FAQ 7: How can I tell if a movie poster is authentic?
Look for signs of printing quality, paper stock, and the presence of studio logos. Comparing the poster to known authentic examples is crucial. Also, purchase from reputable dealers.
FAQ 8: What’s the best way to store and preserve a movie poster?
Store posters flat in acid-free sleeves or roll them carefully and store them in acid-free tubes. Avoid direct sunlight, humidity, and extreme temperatures.
FAQ 9: What are some alternative places to find movie posters besides theaters?
Online retailers, auction sites, film festivals, conventions, and vintage poster shops are all viable options.
FAQ 10: Is it appropriate to offer to pay for a movie poster?
While some theaters might appreciate the gesture, it’s generally better to offer your assistance in taking down the poster or express your gratitude in other ways. Starting with a polite request and only offering to pay if prompted is the safest approach.
FAQ 11: What should I do if I damage a poster while trying to remove it?
Immediately inform a theater employee. Offer to compensate them for the damage. Honesty and responsibility are paramount.
FAQ 12: Are smaller theaters more likely to give away posters than large chains?
This can vary. Smaller, independent theaters might have more flexibility in handling promotional materials, but large chains often have established protocols. The key is to build a rapport regardless of the theater’s size.
The Reel Deal: Patience and Persistence Pay Off
Securing a genuine movie poster from a theater is a rewarding experience, but it requires patience, respect, and a strategic approach. By building relationships with theater staff, understanding release cycles, and exploring alternative avenues, you can significantly increase your chances of adding these iconic pieces of cinematic history to your collection. Remember, honesty and good manners go a long way in the world of movie memorabilia. Happy hunting!