How to Attend Fort Worth Film Society Events

The Fort Worth Film Society is a cornerstone of cinematic culture in North Texas, offering audiences an intimate, curated experience that goes far beyond mainstream theater offerings. Founded to champion independent, international, and classic cinema, the Society brings together filmmakers, scholars, and film lovers for screenings, Q&As, retrospectives, and special themed nights that celebrate the art of storytelling through film. Attending these events is more than just buying a ticket—it’s becoming part of a vibrant community that values film as an evolving, transformative medium. Whether you’re a longtime cinephile or a newcomer eager to explore cinema beyond the multiplex, understanding how to attend Fort Worth Film Society events opens the door to unforgettable cultural experiences.

Unlike commercial cinemas that prioritize box office performance, the Fort Worth Film Society selects films based on artistic merit, historical significance, and cultural relevance. Their programming often includes rare 35mm prints, restored classics, director’s cuts, and world premieres that rarely screen elsewhere in the region. This makes attending their events not just a pastime, but a meaningful engagement with global cinema history and contemporary independent voices.

Yet, for many, navigating the logistics of attending these events can feel daunting. Scheduling conflicts, unfamiliar ticketing platforms, membership benefits, and venue specifics can create confusion. This guide demystifies the entire process—from discovering upcoming events to securing your seat and maximizing your experience. By following the steps outlined here, you’ll transform from a casual observer into an informed, engaged participant in one of Texas’s most respected film institutions.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Visit the Official Website

The first and most essential step in attending Fort Worth Film Society events is visiting their official website: fortworthfilmsociety.org. This is the central hub for all event information, including screening schedules, venue details, ticket pricing, and membership options. Unlike third-party ticketing sites or social media pages, the official website is updated in real time and provides the most accurate, comprehensive listings.

Once on the site, navigate to the “Events” or “Calendar” section. Here, you’ll find a month-by-month breakdown of upcoming screenings. Each listing includes the film title, director, runtime, format (digital or 35mm), showtime, venue, and any special notes—such as whether a director or actor will be present for a live Q&A.

Bookmark the page and check it weekly. New events are added regularly, and popular screenings often sell out days in advance. Set a recurring reminder on your phone or calendar to review the schedule every Monday morning.

2. Create a User Account

To purchase tickets, reserve seats, and receive personalized recommendations, you must create a free user account on the Fort Worth Film Society website. Click the “Sign In” or “Join” button in the top-right corner of the homepage. You’ll be prompted to enter your name, email address, and a secure password. Some users opt to link their account with social media for faster login, but this is optional.

Creating an account gives you access to exclusive benefits: early access to ticket sales, personalized event alerts based on your preferred genres (e.g., documentary, foreign language, silent film), and the ability to save favorite films to a watchlist. Your account also stores your payment preferences, making future purchases faster and more convenient.

Ensure your email address is active and checked regularly. The Society sends important updates—such as venue changes, weather-related cancellations, or last-minute guest appearances—exclusively via email. If you don’t receive a confirmation after signing up, check your spam folder or contact the site’s support form (not a helpline) for assistance.

3. Choose Your Event

The Fort Worth Film Society offers a diverse lineup each month. Events range from restored 1960s French New Wave films to contemporary Sundance award winners, from silent films accompanied by live piano to experimental video installations. When selecting an event, consider the following:

• Genre Interest: Do you prefer narrative features, documentaries, or avant-garde shorts?
• Language and Origin: Are you drawn to films from Japan, Iran, Brazil, or Eastern Europe?
• Historical Significance: Are you interested in seeing a film in its original theatrical format?
• Special Guests: Some screenings feature post-film discussions with filmmakers, critics, or scholars.

Use the filters on the Events page to narrow your search. For example, if you’re interested in “Documentaries Premiering in 2024,” select that category. You can also sort by date, venue, or ticket price. Take notes on events that interest you—don’t rely on memory. The Society often hosts multiple screenings per week, and planning ahead ensures you don’t miss your top picks.

4. Understand Ticket Types and Pricing

Ticket pricing varies depending on the event type, venue, and membership status. Here’s a breakdown of the most common options:

• General Admission: $12–$15 per ticket. Open seating; first come, first served.
• Member Discount: $8–$10 per ticket. Available to current members of the Society.
• Student/Senior: $10. Valid ID required at entry.
• Special Events: $20–$35. Includes Q&As, live music, or multi-film programs.
• Series Passes: $75–$150. Unrestricted access to 5–10 events over a 6–8 week period.

Membership is highly recommended for frequent attendees. Annual memberships start at $50 and include unlimited discounted tickets, invitations to members-only preview nights, and a quarterly newsletter with behind-the-scenes content. Many members find that a single membership pays for itself after attending just three events.

Always check if a screening is “reserved seating” or “general admission.” Reserved seating guarantees you a specific row and seat number, which is ideal for popular films. General admission means you choose your seat upon arrival—arrive early for the best spots.

5. Purchase Your Tickets

Tickets are sold exclusively through the Fort Worth Film Society website. Do not use third-party resellers such as StubHub, Ticketmaster, or Eventbrite—these platforms do not carry Society events and may sell invalid or inflated tickets.

To purchase:

1. Log into your account.
2. Select the desired event.
3. Choose the number of tickets and ticket type (general, member, student, etc.).
4. Proceed to checkout and enter payment details (credit/debit card or PayPal).
5. Review your order and confirm.

After purchase, you’ll receive a confirmation email with a digital ticket. This ticket contains a QR code that will be scanned at the venue entrance. You may print it or display it on your smartphone. No physical tickets are mailed.

Important: Ticket sales for popular events open 7–14 days in advance. Set a calendar alert for the exact date and time. Many screenings sell out within minutes. If a screening is marked “Sold Out,” join the waitlist—cancellations do occur, and you may be notified if a seat becomes available.

6. Confirm Venue and Parking Details

Fort Worth Film Society events are held at multiple venues across the city. The most common include:

• Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth – 3200 Darnell Street
• Wyly Theatre – 1100 Bowie Street
• Alamo Drafthouse Cinema (Fort Worth) – 201 W 7th Street
• Fort Worth Central Library – 100 N Main Street

Each venue has different parking, public transit, and entry procedures. Always verify the venue for your selected event. Click the “Venue Info” link on the event page to view:

• Street address and map
• On-site parking availability and fees
• Public transit options (e.g., Trinity Metro bus routes)
• Accessibility accommodations
• Box office opening times

For example, parking at the Modern Art Museum is free for event attendees after 5 PM. At the Wyly Theatre, valet parking is available for $10. The Alamo Drafthouse offers a discounted parking rate with validation from the theater. Arriving 30–45 minutes before showtime ensures you have ample time to park, walk to the venue, and find your seat.

7. Prepare for the Event

Once your ticket is confirmed, prepare for a unique cinematic experience:

• Arrive Early: Doors typically open 30–45 minutes before the screening. Early arrival allows you to meet fellow film lovers, browse program booklets, and secure a good seat (if general admission).
• Bring a Valid ID: Required for student/senior discounts and age-restricted films (R-rated or NC-17).
• Bring Cash or Card: Concessions are available, including artisanal popcorn, local craft sodas, and wine. Some venues are cash-only for bar service.
• Turn Off Your Phone: The Society enforces a strict no-phone policy during screenings. Use the lobby for calls or texts.
• Review the Film’s Background: The Society often provides a brief program note or reading list on their website. Reading these enhances your appreciation of the film’s context.

If the event includes a Q&A, prepare one or two thoughtful questions in advance. Avoid generic queries like “What was it like to make this film?” Instead, ask something specific: “How did the decision to shoot on 16mm influence the film’s pacing?” or “Was the use of natural light intentional in the final act?”

8. Attend and Engage

When you arrive at the venue, proceed to the ticket check table. Have your digital ticket ready on your phone or printed copy. Staff will scan your QR code and hand you a printed program or seating chart if needed.

Many events begin with a brief introduction by a curator or film historian. Listen closely—this often includes context about the film’s restoration, its cultural impact, or the filmmaker’s intent. During the screening, avoid talking, using devices, or leaving your seat unless absolutely necessary. The Society fosters a respectful, immersive environment.

After the film, stay for the Q&A if one is scheduled. This is where the real magic happens. You may hear stories about production challenges, censorship battles, or personal inspirations that never made it into the credits. Don’t be shy—this is your opportunity to connect with the art and the artists.

Finally, consider introducing yourself to others in your row. Film Society audiences are passionate and welcoming. Many attendees become regulars—and friends.

9. Follow Up and Stay Connected

After the event, take a moment to reflect. Did the film challenge your perspective? Did you discover a new director? Share your thoughts on the Society’s online forum (accessible via your account) or on their social media pages (Instagram, Facebook, Twitter/X).

Subscribe to their newsletter if you haven’t already. It includes upcoming schedules, filmmaker interviews, and exclusive content not posted publicly. You can also join their mailing list for special invitations—such as private screenings of unreleased films or behind-the-scenes tours of film archives.

Consider volunteering. The Society relies on community support for ushering, event setup, and outreach. Volunteering is a great way to deepen your involvement and gain insider access to events before they’re announced to the public.

Best Practices

Plan Ahead, Don’t Wait Until the Last Minute

One of the most common mistakes attendees make is waiting until the day of the event to check availability. Popular films—especially those with guest filmmakers or restored classics—sell out within hours of going on sale. Set calendar alerts for ticket release dates. Mark your calendar for the first Tuesday of each month, when new programming is typically announced.

Join the Membership Program

Membership isn’t just a discount—it’s a commitment to sustaining independent cinema. Members receive priority access to tickets, exclusive invitations to filmmaker dinners, and early access to special events. The $50 annual fee is easily offset by attending just five discounted screenings. It also signals your support for a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving film heritage.

Respect the Space and the Audience

Fort Worth Film Society venues are intimate and acoustically sensitive. Avoid wearing strong perfumes or colognes. Silence all devices. If you need to leave during the film, wait for a scene change and exit quietly. These events are not about convenience—they’re about reverence for the art form.

Engage Beyond the Screen

Don’t treat these events as passive entertainment. Read the program notes. Research the director’s other works. Join the post-screening discussion. Write a short review on the Society’s website or on Letterboxd. Your engagement helps build a stronger, more vibrant film community.

Bring a Friend—But Choose Wisely

Bring someone who shares your curiosity, not just your schedule. Introducing a friend to a challenging foreign film or a 90-minute silent movie requires patience and shared enthusiasm. If they’re new to indie cinema, pick a film with accessible themes—like a beautifully shot documentary or a classic with universal emotional resonance.

Keep a Film Journal

Start a simple notebook or digital document where you record each film you see: title, director, date, venue, thoughts, and one quote that stuck with you. Over time, this becomes a personal archive of your cinematic journey. Many longtime members look back on these journals as treasured records of cultural discovery.

Support Local Film Culture

Attend events not just to watch films, but to sustain them. When you buy a ticket, you’re helping fund film restoration projects, educational outreach in public schools, and archival preservation. Consider donating additional funds during checkout or purchasing a membership gift for a friend.

Be Open to the Unexpected

Some of the most memorable experiences come from films you didn’t plan to see. A documentary on a forgotten Texas filmmaker, a 1970s Japanese horror flick, a 16mm short from Senegal—these are the hidden gems the Society specializes in. Stay flexible. Let curiosity guide you.

Tools and Resources

Official Website: fortworthfilmsociety.org

The cornerstone of your experience. Updated daily, it provides full event calendars, digital tickets, membership sign-up, and detailed venue guides. Bookmark this site and check it weekly.

Newsletter: Fort Worth Film Society Weekly

Subscribe via the website footer. Delivered every Monday, it includes event reminders, filmmaker profiles, and curated reading lists. It’s the most reliable way to stay informed without constantly checking the site.

Program Notes and Study Guides

Each screening page includes downloadable PDFs with historical context, director bios, critical essays, and discussion questions. These are invaluable for deepening your understanding of complex films.

Letterboxd

Create a free account at letterboxd.com and log every film you see at a Fort Worth Film Society event. You can write reviews, rate films, and follow other members of the community. Many Society attendees share their lists publicly, offering inspiration for future viewings.

IMDb Pro (Optional)

While not required, IMDb Pro provides access to production details, crew credits, and release histories. Useful if you’re researching a director’s filmography or the technical background of a restored print.

Trinity Metro Transit App

For attendees relying on public transportation, the Trinity Metro app offers real-time bus tracking and route planning to all Society venues. Download it and save your most common routes.

Local Film Blogs and Podcasts

Follow Fort Worth-based film critics like David Hall (Fort Worth Weekly) or Reel Texas podcast. They often preview Society events, interview curators, and provide context that enhances your viewing experience.

Library Resources

The Fort Worth Public Library system offers free access to Kanopy, a streaming platform featuring hundreds of independent and classic films. Use your library card to explore titles before attending a Society screening—this builds familiarity and appreciation.

Social Media Channels

Follow the Society on Instagram (@fortworthfilmsociety) and Twitter/X (@FWFilmSociety). They post behind-the-scenes photos, last-minute updates, and exclusive content—like footage from restored reels or interviews with visiting directors.

Real Examples

Example 1: The 35mm Restoration of “The Spirit of the Beehive” (1973)

In March 2023, the Fort Worth Film Society hosted a rare 35mm screening of Víctor Erice’s Spanish masterpiece, “The Spirit of the Beehive.” The event was sold out two weeks in advance. A member, Maria L., had saved the event in her watchlist and purchased tickets the moment they went on sale. She arrived 45 minutes early, met a retired film professor who had studied Erice’s work in Madrid, and stayed for the 45-minute Q&A with a visiting Spanish cinema scholar. Maria later wrote a blog post about the experience, which was featured on the Society’s website. She now volunteers as a program assistant and helps curate the annual “Spanish Cinema Series.”

Example 2: Documentary Series on Texas Filmmakers

In fall 2023, the Society launched a monthly series called “Texas Lens,” showcasing independent documentaries by filmmakers from across the state. One event featured “Cottonmouth,” a film about a rural community’s fight against environmental degradation. The director, a first-time filmmaker from East Texas, attended in person. A group of college students from TCU attended as part of a media studies class. They submitted questions in advance and were invited to a post-screening dinner with the director. One student later interned with the filmmaker’s production company.

Example 3: Silent Film with Live Piano Accompaniment

During the 2023 holiday season, the Society presented “The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari” (1920) with live piano accompaniment by a local jazz musician. The event was held at the historic Fort Worth Central Library. Attendees were asked to dress in 1920s attire—many did. The evening began with a short lecture on German Expressionism. The film was projected from a 35mm print restored by the George Eastman Museum. Attendees later formed a monthly silent film club that meets at the Society’s venues.

Example 4: First-Time Attendee’s Journey

Jamal, a software engineer from Arlington, had never attended an independent film screening before. He stumbled upon a Society event listing for “Parasite” (2019) and decided to try it. He bought a general admission ticket, arrived early, and sat next to a retired English teacher who recommended three more films to watch. Jamal became a member the next week. He now attends every third Friday, brings a friend, and has started a small film discussion group at his workplace.

FAQs

Do I need to be a member to attend events?

No, membership is not required to attend. However, members receive discounted ticket prices and early access to sales. Non-members can still purchase tickets at the general admission rate.

Can I bring children to screenings?

Children are welcome at family-friendly and G/PG-rated events. Always check the film’s rating and content advisories on the event page. Some screenings are restricted to ages 18+ due to mature themes or language.

Are there discounts for students or seniors?

Yes. Students and seniors receive discounted tickets for $10 with valid ID. Proof of status must be shown at the door.

What if I can’t attend after buying a ticket?

Tickets are non-refundable but may be transferred to another person. Simply forward your digital ticket to them. If you’re unable to attend, notify the Society via their contact form—they may offer you a credit toward a future event.

Can I volunteer to help with events?

Yes. Volunteers assist with ushering, setup, and outreach. Visit the “Get Involved” section on the website to apply. No experience is necessary—training is provided.

Are events accessible for people with disabilities?

All venues are ADA-compliant. Wheelchair-accessible seating is available upon request. Closed captioning and audio description are offered for select screenings. Contact the Society in advance to arrange accommodations.

How do I know if a film is being shown in 35mm or digital?

Each event listing clearly states the format. Films marked “35mm” are projected from physical film reels—a rare and special experience. These screenings are often limited to one or two showings.

Can I host a private screening for my group?

Yes. The Society offers private rental options for organizations, clubs, and educational institutions. Contact them through the “Rent a Screening” form on the website.

Do they show new releases?

Occasionally. The Society prioritizes independent, classic, and international films. While they rarely screen mainstream blockbusters, they do occasionally showcase award-season contenders or festival favorites before their wide release.

How can I suggest a film for screening?

Submit your suggestion via the “Film Proposal” form on the website. Curators review all submissions. Include why the film matters, its historical or cultural relevance, and any available restoration status.

Conclusion

Attending Fort Worth Film Society events is not merely an activity—it’s an immersion into the soul of cinema. These gatherings offer more than entertainment; they provide space for reflection, dialogue, and connection. In a world saturated with algorithm-driven content and fleeting digital distractions, the Society creates sanctuaries where film is treated as art, not commodity.

By following the steps outlined in this guide—researching events, securing tickets, arriving prepared, and engaging deeply—you become part of a legacy that preserves and elevates the cinematic experience. You’re not just watching a movie. You’re participating in a living tradition of storytelling that spans continents and generations.

Whether you’re drawn to the haunting silence of a 1920s silent film, the urgent realism of a contemporary documentary, or the surreal beauty of a restored foreign classic, the Fort Worth Film Society welcomes you. There is no gatekeeper, no elitism—only a shared love of the moving image.

Start today. Visit the website. Choose a film that calls to you. Buy your ticket. Show up. Let the lights dim. And let the story begin.