Start with repeated situations, not networking
Meeting new people is easier when there is already a reason to be in the same place. Classes, sport, volunteering, cultural events and regular venues all create repeated context.
Cinema is different because it is less repetitive, but the exact screening can still provide a very specific shared reason to meet.
Make smaller social bets
You do not need to turn every new contact into a close friendship. One film, one coffee or one class is enough to see whether there is any natural reason to meet again.
That is a healthier standard than treating every introduction as a test of whether someone belongs in your permanent social circle.
Use plans you would make anyway
If you wanted to see the film regardless, the evening has value before the social outcome is known. That lowers the pressure on both people.
Costar is designed around that principle. The screening is real before the match exists.
Keep safety practical
Meet in public, keep control of your own transport and tell somebody you trust where you are going. Avoid making the first meeting dependent on somebody else for getting home.
If the person or situation feels wrong, leave.