Publicists create the ‘buzz’ that surrounds the release of a film.
Publicists create the ‘buzz’ that surrounds the release of a film. They get the critics talking.
They are responsible for getting media coverage of the film through having good relationships with journalists and critics. They create press packs, which usually include the film's synopsis, production notes, cast and crew credits and biographies, stills and the electronic press kit (EPK). Film publicists also schedule press screenings for bigger budget movies. Unit publicists invite journalists to the set during shooting.
They handle all major aspects of press relations and keep the distributor and producer informed of PR developments. They look over all publicity materials with consideration of any legal, ethical and cultural issues. If there’s any controversy at any stage, it’s the publicist who deals with damage control – and they need to be available at any time of the day and night to do so.