Cinejoy Spotlight FAQ

What is a Spotlight?

Spotlight events are live, global, scheduled film premieres that simulate the excitement of an in-person movie night — from red carpet conversatons and filmmaker intros, interviews, and more, to post-film discussions with creators. These events bring the magic of a real-time premiere into your home, with real audiences, creators, and a shared experience. You can think of it like a movie night with a live audience, exclusive presentations, and community energy — all online.

Is Spotlight a live experience?

Yes. Spotlight events are live and time-based, just like attending a real movie premiere. You join at a scheduled time and experience the screening together with other attendees. While you do have up to 5 hours from the event’s start to complete your movie viewing in case you pause the movie, the live events like the red carpet and Q&A sessions start and end at a fixed time and cannot be rewatched.

How do I join a Spotlight event?

Log in to Creatics (or sign up if you're new). Navigate to the Cinejoy > Spotlight > Lineup page (https://creatics.org/cinejoy/premiere/lineup), choose the Spotlight film you want to attend, and buy a ticket or get the All-Access Pass. When it’s time for the event, a Join button will appear on the event page.

What happens during a Spotlight event?

A Spotlight follows a curated, exciting schedule designed to mimic a festival premiere. A typical agenda includes: 
 
- Lobby Meetup – A virtual pre-show hangout (especially for Group Sharing users) 
- Red Carpet – Meet the artists, hear opening remarks 
- Opening Presentation – Quick welcome and orientation 
- Film Screening – Watch the film in real-time 
- Live Q&A – Engage with the cast and creators 
- Group Sharing Finale – Small group video chats to discuss the experience 
- End of Festivities – Wrap-up; finish the film or stay and talk 
 
During the screening, you'll also be part of a Theatre Chat — a real-time chatroom where you can message other attendees across the world watching the film with you.

What is Group Sharing?

Group Sharing is a premium, immersive social experience. If you're part of a group, you’ll be able to join live video chats during the Spotlight, sharing reactions with friends, filmmakers, or fellow attendees. You can turn on your camera/microphone and engage with others — it's a way to bring that "watch party" feel into your home. 
 
If you are joining alone, you can also create your own group (https://creatics.org/group/how-to) and invite your friends, family, or anyone you want to enjoy the experience with — all live on video. 
 
Note: Group Sharing is currently available only on desktop and laptop browsers. Mobile devices do not support Group Sharing due to screen size limitations.

Can I watch more than one Spotlight?

Yes. You can buy individual tickets for each Spotlight film you want to watch or get an All-Access Pass, which gives you access to all Spotlight events and Showcase films.

Can I watch trailers before attending?

Yes. Each Spotlight event includes a trailer so you can preview the film before committing. You’ll find this on the film’s “More Info” page.

Where do I find the time and date of each Spotlight?

The event time and date are clearly listed on each Spotlight’s card and detail page. Be sure to add them to your calendar. You’ll also receive reminder emails 24 hours and 1 hour before the event begins.

What is the Lobby?

The Lobby is a virtual space where users — especially those in Group Sharing — can gather before the event begins. Think of it like a digital hangout lounge to chat, connect, and get excited together.

Can I ask my questions to the cast?

While we currently do not support live audience questions during the event, you can email your questions to [e-mail] and we will try our best to pass them along to the filmmakers.

Who will be participating in the Red Carpet and Q&A?

The featured artists shown below the trailer on each Spotlight page are the expected participants. For full details, visit the Featured Guests page (https://creatics.org/cinejoy/guests).