FAQs

What is TimeSink?

TimeSink is a real cinema on the internet. Films screen at set showtimes, the audience shows up at the same moment, and everyone watches in sync. The program is short, hand-picked, and changes regularly — and special event nights bring filmmakers, guest hosts, and live conversation into the room.

Is membership free? Can I join now?

Yes — membership is free during early access. Sign up and we'll email your invite; doors open in small waves, so it usually arrives within a day. Once you're in, you have full access to the theaters, the current showcase, and upcoming events.

Ready to join? Join free here 🎟️ →

How is this different from streaming at home?

It's a different kind of evening, not a replacement for your other subscriptions. On TimeSink there's one screen, one showtime, and one audience: the film starts at a real time whether or not you're there, everyone inside sees the same frame at the same moment, and the room stays open for conversation. It's closer to going to the movies than to browsing a catalog.

What's the difference between the Showcase and a Special Event?

The Showcase is the ongoing program: a small collection of films, each in its own theater, screening on a loop at set showtimes for a limited run. Special Events are scheduled nights that happen once — premieres, Q&As, workshops, themed programs — often with a filmmaker or guest host in the room. The Showcase is always on; events are the nights worth planning around.

Who chooses the films?

We do. Our team watches everything, debates it, and only screens what we genuinely believe deserves an audience. The submission fee covers costs — it never buys a slot in the program.

What kind of films do you show?

Short films, features, documentaries, comedies, animation, experiments...anything with a strong voice and vision. Format doesn't matter — iPhone or cinema camera, we don't care. The only rule: it has to hold a room.

Who is this platform for?

Anyone who loves film — or just wants a better plan for tonight. Filmmakers, cinephiles, curious viewers, night owls. You don't need credentials or film school pedigree. Show up at showtime and you're part of the room.

What happens if my film gets selected?

Your film gets a proper screening: its own theater, set showtimes, and a live audience watching together. You'll receive full creator credit and a public profile page (we're also building towards something like IMDB). We're building toward filmmaker rewards including revenue sharing and direct support, because cinema should support its creators.

Do I have to be a member to submit a film?

No. Anyone can submit. Members get perks like tracking their submission status through a personal dashboard. If selected, you'll get a creator profile with full credit and a public page showcasing your work.

Ready to submit? Submit your film here 📼 →

Will this affect my festival eligibility?

Unlikely. TimeSink screenings are private, member-only events. These are not public internet releases. There's no replay, no public link, no on-demand archive. Most festivals consider this kind of limited screening acceptable. Check your specific festival's rules, but we're designed to build buzz, not burn bridges.

Do you host in-person events?

Not yet, but it's in the plans. Pop-up screenings, midnight premieres, cinema nights bringing the TimeSink experience into physical spaces with audiences who care. Stay tuned.

How much does it cost to submit a film?

$5. This covers our infrastructure, curation process, and screening tools. Paying to submit never influences selection.

When will I hear back about my submission?

Typically within a few days. If it takes longer, we're either deeply considering your film or debating it. Either way, you'll hear from us.

What's the vision?

A living cinema on the internet — a neighborhood theater whose neighborhood happens to span timezones. Films premiere at real showtimes, audiences arrive together, regulars start to recognize each other, and screenings become nights you remember. If that sounds like your kind of evening, welcome — we're glad you've made it here.