The method
- Identify the work by title, director and known year. Note the desired version: language, subtitles, cut or running time when relevant.
- Find the programme record on the chosen service. Examine stated period, access, territory and any subscription. A catalogue entry or search result does not prove playback is available to you.
- Classify the list as “to watch”, “availability to revisit” and “watched”. Add consultation date and a useful link instead of copying unexplained platform names.
Fictional worked example
A fictional film called “The Passage” exists in two productions from different years. The list includes director and year to avoid confusion. If the consulted record does not specify the desired subtitled version, keep that detail unconfirmed before planning the evening.
The record to keep
Keep the work reference, version, service and observed conditions. Recheck availability before the planned viewing.
Your record, step by step
For your own situation, record the following information. Check a field when it is documented; missing information still needs verification. The boxes are a reminder within this page.
This checklist does not validate your project. No entries are sent or saved.
Fictional worked case. Two fictional listings share a film title. One concerns another year and director.
| Element | Observation in the case | Interpretation or next check |
|---|---|---|
| Wanted film | Title A, 2008, director X | Keep these identifiers with the title |
| Near match | Title A, 2020, director Y | Do not merge the two records |
| Advertised version | Original language; subtitles unspecified | Check language, captions and intended device |
| Access | Rental available on the access date | Do not infer future availability |
What this method can establish
The list guarantees neither screening rights, future availability nor access from another country. The service’s restrictions still apply.
Useful questions before you start
How can a watchlist avoid promising permanent availability?
Separate the film reference from the viewing offer. Date the check, name the service and review conditions before watching.
Supporting documentation
These references support the method. Each source shows its language and consultation date; an available directory record explains its purpose.
- ARTE — centre d’aide FR ↗
Documentation consulted on
An editorial method, a fictional example and references for further reading.