Join the Federation

Film societies are not for profit organisations with annual memberships, run by elected volunteers and using defined aims and rules or a constitution.

Film societies are “non-theatrical” users of films – which means they do not charge for individual screenings.

The films shown may come from commercial or non-commercial distributors, government libraries or private collections.

They may use 35mm, 16mm, DVD, digital.

Film societies may run their activities in all sorts of venues: Hired venues,  theatrettes, meeting rooms, school halls, church halls, private homes, etc.

Although we use the term “film society” in this information, it is not necessary to call yourself a film society to be recognised as such and become a member of the FVFS.

Your organisation may be called a film club, film group or anything else you desire. The term “film society” is used here as a generic term. (See our list of members for examples of how film societies name themselves.)

NPV Cinemas are Not-for-Profit Volunteer-run organisations for screening films to the public.

Admission is generally by individual payment so non-theatrical film hiring rates do not apply and screening rights may be more expensive.

NPV Film Festivals are similar to NPV Cinemas but screen over a shorter period.