We recently spoke with Emma Daigrepont, UPC’s president and former director of films, Owen Tilley, former VP of Entertainment and Dana Gramuglia, student involvement coordinator, about Auburn’s long-standing movie program. When asked how movie events help UPC achieve their programming goals, Emma responded: “I think with movies, it’s easy to get a wide array of people to come. Many different types of people are fans of movies, so they attract a larger audience. It’s a universal event that helps us cultivate a diverse audience and helps students build connections across groups.”

Owen expanded on that sentiment saying the events are low stress and don’t feel as overwhelming for some people who might not be comfortable with bigger events. “Plus, we’re not asking them to do anything,” said Owen. “they just need to relax. We’re simply creating a space for people to meet and connect. And I haven’t met one person that some film does not appeal to; films appeal to everyone.”

To ensure they are attracting the largest audience, the committee tries to focus on new releases – especially films that are still in theaters or not on streaming services yet. If those aren’t an option, they look to the throwbacks. “We ask, ‘What’s trending? What are the classics? What’s circling social media? What are the comfort movies – the ones we know people will enjoy watching as a group?’

“I think with films you have so many different types of people who are fans of movies that it attracts a larger audience. They’re so universal. And many people just want to relax and hang out with their friends. So, it helps us cultivate a diverse audience and helping students make memories.”

– Emma Daigrepont

They’ve also recently started to show movies in different areas on campus – especially where it makes sense for the featured film. For instance, they’re hoping to partner with their school’s Astronomy Club for a showing at the arboretum. And, of course, their annual football stadium screening is a big draw. “It’s just super fun watching one of your favorite movies on a huge screen,” shared Emma. “Students usually only get to access the stadium for games, so it’s a really unique experience and my favorite of the year.”

To enhance their events, the team puts together a pre-show slideshow for each screening. It typically includes background music themed to the featured film, movie trivia, advertisements for future events and campus resources. “It adds a nostalgic feel to the event,” says Owen. “Since theaters don’t really have pre-show trivia anymore.”

The team also looks for any opportunity to inject added fun into the event – even if it’s simple and free. “Swank sent us some ‘Elvis’ posters, so we had a little giveaway before our screening,” Emma shared. “We just had people come up to do their best Elvis impersonation in exchange for a free poster. It was really fun.”

Emma, Owen and Dana’s advice for other schools hoping to enhance their program is to think about timing. “Try to appropriately space out your films, and consider what’s happening on your campus,” said Emma. “For instance, don’t schedule a big event during a football game.”

You also need to have passion for your events. “You need to be fired up,” says Owen. “You create the environment you’re looking for in your attendees, so you need to have passion and drive. And you need to care about what you’re doing.”

If you’d like to work with a Swank Account Executive to enhance your movie program or if you’re interested in being featured in a customer testimonial, give us a call at 1.800.876.5577.