Junket
Organized press events where journalists interview cast and filmmakers to generate publicity for upcoming releases.
Definition
A press junket is a coordinated publicity event where studios arrange for talent to conduct numerous interviews with journalists over a concentrated period, typically a weekend. Journalists travel to a central location to conduct back-to-back interviews used for articles, TV segments, and online content.
Junkets efficiently generate massive publicity output, with talent sometimes conducting 50+ interviews in a single weekend across print, broadcast, and digital outlets.
Why It Matters
Junkets remain central to film publicity despite the rise of social media and alternative promotion. They generate the interview content that fills entertainment media coverage and drives awareness campaigns.
For PR professionals, managing junket logistics, preparing talent, and maximizing coverage from these intensive events represents core campaign execution.
Examples in Practice
Marvel junkets are legendary for their scale, with cast members giving hundreds of interviews across global markets. The coordinated rollout generates consistent messaging while allowing regional customization.
Virtual junkets emerged during the pandemic and have remained partially in use, though in-person events are returning for major releases.