Technical checklist

Hardware

A good film experience at home does not necessarily require expensive gadgets. Preparation and smart choices are key. Keep these three factors in mind: streaming, watching the film and audio. Will you use one device for all three, or three different devices? If you know which hardware you’re going to use, double check your set-up and settings using our test screening (of a film on demand; available from January 7).

1. Streaming
   The IFFR film platform is more compatible with certain devices than others. We recommend using a (recently updated) computer or laptop. Streaming from a mobile device (smartphones or tablets) is an option, but has reported more technical issues. This is especially true for older models. IFFR films can only be streamed using a web browser – we do not have a streaming app available (for smartphones or smart TVs) – which is simply more compatible with computers and laptops, than with mobile devices.
    
2. Watch the film
   Disclaimer: the player will have the least issues if you watch the film on the screen of the device that you are streaming from. If you are experiencing issues with Chromecast, an external screen or with your beamer/projector (for example, only audio and no image), this frequently resolves the issue.
   If you want to watch the film on a different device than the one you are streaming from (for example, streaming from your laptop and watching on your television), you will need to connect the two devices. Connection can be made using a cable, casting with Chromecast or Apple AirPlay. Streaming IFFR films on your smart TV is only possible if you have access to a web browser on your TV. Log into your IFFR account on IFFR.com on the web browser on your television. We recommend you test this option using our test screening of a film on demand ahead of your film screening.
    
3. Audio
   We recommend connecting your laptop or computer to a sound system for the ultimate film experience. Even a simple set of speakers can elevate the audio experience significantly.

Software and internet connection

Make sure your browser is updated before the film screening to avoid your browser demanding a software update during the screening. Ready to go? Double check your set-up and settings using our test screening (of a film on demand).

1. Select the most compatible web browser
   The IFFR player works best with Google Chrome. If you prefer not to use Google, we recommend using Firefox or Microsoft Edge as a second option. IFFR films can only be streamed using a web browser – we do not (yet) have a streaming app available (for smartphones or smart TVs).
    
2. Check your internet connection and network
   To check whether your internet connection is strong enough for high quality streaming, you can perform a speed test. There are various free speed tests online. A download speed of 15Mbps (Megabit per second) is sufficient to stream a film. Your wireless internet connection can however still fluctuate. To ensure a stable connection, connect your device to your modem using an ethernet cable.
    
3. Update your software
   We strongly recommend checking whether any updates are available – for your web browser or your device – before streaming an IFFR film. Outdated software is one of the most common issues experienced by online festival visitors; one which we cannot resolve remotely for you.

The player and its settings

It can take time to adjust to streaming media in a new digital environment. What adjustments can I make? Can I pause and rewind? It is important to remember that a digital festival environment is not the same thing as a streaming service. You may not see all the setting options you are accustomed to, and you may encounter new options. Read more about the available settings and test them with our test screening of a film on demand.

1. Turn the audio on yourself
   When you open the player, the audio is automatically turned off. You have to turn on the audio yourself.
    
2. Streaming quality
   The player automatically selects a streaming quality. You can adjust this by selecting a higher or lower resolution in the dropdown menu. Higher resolution is theoretically better, but requires a higher download speed (a better internet connection) to stream smoothly. 1080p is equal to ‘HD’ (high definition). Selecting a different streaming quality can take up to 30 seconds to adjust.
   Please note: the quality you experience is not only dependent on the IFFR player, but also determined by the device you are streaming on, and even the cable you are using to connect your device to an external display.
    
3. Sequence playlist (on demand only)
   On demand screenings consist of a playlist of multiple parts. For example: the film and introduction films. You can modify the playlist sequence. During a timed screening, all audiences watch the film at the same time. You are effectively watching a live stream, and cannot modify the sequence playlist.
    
4. The chat box and dashboard (single timed screenings only)
   (Single) Timed screenings feature a chat function with which you can communicate with fellow festival visitors ahead of the screening. Please note: This is not to be confused with our helpdesk live chat, which you can find at the bottom right of your screen.