Frequently Asked Questions
As a project of the Compathos Foundation 501(c)3, Films for the Planet is dedicated to using the power of film to inspire positive social and environmental change. Our mission is to raise awareness and spark action around the most challeging issues facing our planet today, from climate change and biodiversity loss to social justice and human rights.
We do this by amplifing the work of social change artists and independent filmmakers who are working in the philanthropic, environmental and social impact sectors and by creating educational programs and events for individuals, communities and non-profit networks worldwide. We’ve seen film inspire awareness and ignite social movements time and again – we know amazing things are possible!
Together, we are ushering in a revolutionary era of digital cinema that hands the story over to audiences that will determine the outcomes of some of the most pressing issues of our time.
How do I watch the films in the Streaming Collection?
Most of the films in our collection are from Vimeo on Demand. You will need a Vimeo account to access them. To access, click the rent or buy icon in the upper right corner of the trailer. Vimeo accepts Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, and JCB. They accept international payment methods: Carte Bleue, CartaSi, Dankort, China UnionPay.
If Films for the Planet is offering a free film viewing for a limited time:
- Sign-up or login to your Vimeo account.
- Click the Rent or Buy / price icon upper right-hand corner of the trailer
- Click on “Apply Promo Code” then enter the code you recieved from Films for the Planet
- Click “Continue” then Watch (limited time access)
- Enjoy the special resources included on the film page
A trailer or film may display from another source such as YouTube. Watch the entire film for free or view the trailer. The film page typically includes where the film is available to watch on demand or for free.
How do I watch Vimeo on Demand films on iOS, Android, Apple TV, Roku, and Chromecast?
In 2016, Vimeo launched Apple TV, Android TV, and Roku apps to bring the best of Vimeo to your big screen. Today, Vimeo is much more than a viewing destination. It’s an all-in-one video experience platform giving creative professionals, businesses, and organizations everything they need to make and market amazing, impactful videos. As of June 27, 2023, Vimeo is ending support for their existing TV apps.
How can I still watch Vimeo videos on my TV?
You can continue to watch Vimeo videos on your TV by using their free iOS and Android apps or by using a supported browser. You can use these apps to cast via Apple AirPlay and Google Chromecast to your television.
Why is Vimeo ending support for the TV apps?
Vimeo strives to provide users with a best-in-class playback and live streaming experience that’s optimized across devices, geographies, bandwidth, and network performance. They believe that users looking to view Vimeo videos will receive a better ongoing experience by casting via their mobile app, enabling customers to enjoy Vimeo content on their TV.
Why aren't the films free?
We regret that we cannot offer all free feature–length movies on our site. The licensing and hosting bandwidth required to do so is not affordable, so we work through third party hosting platforms such as Vimeo.
It is up to the filmmaker to decide how to market and distribute their film, some offer them for free online, but most high-quality films cannot afford to do so. As filmmakers we are keenly aware of the expense that goes into making and marketing independent films. In addition, not all indie filmmakers can afford to promote their films or create take action or educational campaigns. We take pride in filling in the gaps through our content and events when given the opportunity to do so.
Like many indie filmmakers, we depend on crowdfunding or donations to be able to produce our online film events and hope that with your support, we can continue to do so for free as long as possible. Click HERE to Donate
Does Films for the Planet receive any money from on demand viewer fees?
No. As a nonprofit, we do not profit from showcasing these films, but act in a promotional capacity connecting people to films that will assist them in their journey as catalysts for positive change.
We originally partnered with Vimeo on a new program (2016) called “Vimeo Publisher Platform” which would give the publisher 10% and filmmaker 90% of the viewer fee. Unfortunately, Vimeo dropped the program after we got the digital storefront up and running. We prefer the Vimeo user interface and decided to keep our selections without receiving a percentage of the viewer fee. Ninety percent still goes to the filmmaker which aligns with our nonprofit mission of supporting philanthropy through the arts and film.
Please consider supporting our work. Your support helps us maintain and expand our library of educational films and materials, as well as offer our media internship and fiscal sponsorship programs. Thanks to your kind support, we have produced dozens of educational events and have featured 100+ free documentaries through our newsletters, social media channels, and virtual events.
PayPal Giving (no fee)
PayPal (support a program)
How do I attend a virtual film event?
Films for the Planet has been producing virtual film events since 2017. We typically partner with various organizations to co-create or market and distribute an event. The events include the streaming of one or more documentaries, panel discussions with filmmakers, film subjects, or experts on the relevant topic.
Follow us on social media and sign up for our newsletter to learn about upcoming events.
Newsletter signup: https://filmsfortheplanet.com/newsletter/
How do I host a screening in my community?
Watch a film, start a conversation! All around the world, people are bridging divides and sparking conversation by hosting screenings in living rooms, libraries, and community settings. Check out our Art of Hosting Film Guidelines for screening a film in your community. Let us know how it goes – we would LOVE to share your results!
This invaluable check list shows how to plan, promote and facilitate a film event and group discussion. Film can play a critical role as a catalyst for civic engagement, while providing incentives for fundraising, policy change, and action. By bringing your classroom, organization, community or faith group together to interact, you become part of an exciting social change momentum igniting collective solutions.
Can I work with Films for the Planet in producing an event for my organization?
Yes! Thinking of hosting an event, screening, conversation, panel, or fundraiser? We can help your community, organization or network reach new audiences and build community through the catalyst of film.
Contact: info@filmsfortheplanet.com
Our uniquely designed programs contain a wealth of solution-oriented educational and take action resources. One film at a time, we can align our consciousness and discover real-world solutions to make our world a better place.
Fees vary based on the scope and goals for the campaign.
Can I work with Films for the Planet in producing an event for my film?
Yes! Whether you are thinking of an impact campaign, a digital premiere, a series, an interview, or simply reaching new audiences — we’ve got you covered!
Contact: info@filmsfortheplanet.com for more information.
Fees vary based on the scope and goals for the campaign.
What is the best way to support your work?
Your support helps us maintain and expand our library of educational films and materials, as well as offer our media internship and fiscal sponsorship programs. Your donation supports Films for the Planet’s educator outreach, grants for artists, and media and event production. Thanks to your kind support, we have produced dozens of educational events and have featured 100+ free documentaries through our newsletters, social media channels, and virtual events.
Sign up for our newsletter
Receive monthly updates about new releases, invites to virtual events, free screenings, interviews, e-books, educational materials, and useful resources for your community to engage with film.
Follow and share our social media content
Attend our events
DONATE
PayPal Giving (no fee)
PayPal (support a program)
Volunteer:
VolunteerMatch
Apply Online
Idealist
Partner with us
For corporate partnerships please contact us directly at thea@filmsfortheplanet.com
For organizations: info@filmsfortheplanet.com
Where can I find volunteer opportunities?
We believe that everyone has the power to make a difference, and we rely on the support of volunteers to help us achieve our goals. Whether you’re seeking a board role, are a seasoned volunteer or just getting started, there is a role for you on our team. Through VolunteerMatch and Idealist you can find a number of regularly updated opportunities to get involved with Films for the Planet.
Together, we can make a positive impact on our planet and create a brighter future for all.
VolunteerMatch
Idealist
Apply Online:
How do I become a partner?
If your organization is aligned in purpose and vision, please consider partnering with us!
Please visit our Become a Partner page:
- For corporate partnerships please contact us directly at thea@filmsfortheplanet.com
- For organizations, send mission statement, link and logo to info@filmsfortheplanet.com