Getting Started: How to Make and Enter Your 48 Hour Film
Our article documenting the basics - the rules, format, address, and forms!
The Basics of Filmmaking
The place for a filmmaker to start - John Parenteau's article covers Filmmaking Basics, Cinematography, and Lighting.
Recommended reading for all levels of filmmakers.
Links
Some links to digital video information, equipment, and more.
Articles On Filmmaking:
Where do you get your ideas from?
Filmmaker Interviews and Essays:
Chris Bosen and MaryEllen Owens
William Kallay - My First Two Adventures in Making a 48 Hour Film
Reviewed and Recommended:
Books on Filmmaking
48 Hour Gear
Show the world that you are a 48 Hour Filmmaker!
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are you guys, anyway?
The 48 Hour Film Festival was founded by Mark Kochinski, Keith Matz, and John Parenteau, three professionals in Hollywood.
What's the point of this festival?
The point is to make films! Whether you want to pursue a career or just have some fun, the 48 Hour Film Festival is a great way to get started.
How did you come up with the idea?
We saw a couple of similar things - the Seattle International Film Festival has a thing called 'Fly Filmmaking', and there's the Guerilla Film Festival in St. George, Utah. It seemed like a great idea, so we decided to tweak the rules to our liking and go for it! Almost simultaneously, other 48 Hour film festivals began springing up.
How do you chose which films get screened?
There are probably two major elements we're looking for: First, we like films that are inventive and unique - surprise us with the use of the format, or do something we never imagined could be done in 48 hours! Second, we look for quality and energy: Maybe a great performance, interesting camera work, or a great script.
Why a 48 hour limit?
If you've ever tried to make a film on your own, you'll know that there's always SOMETHING you get hung up on. Being a filmmaker is often an exercise in making excuses. Having a time limitation of 48 hours forces you to move past those hang-ups and just make the film!
How will you know if I break the rules?
Honestly, maybe we won't. Just remember, the time limit is for you, not us. It's to encourage you to avoid the common bottlenecks of new filmmakers and get it done. If you cheat on the time, you're just cheating yourself!
How do I get actors and crew?
Probably the best way is to ask your friends - think of this as a test of your Hollywood networking skills. If you want more professional actors, check out Backstage West for a way to post a casting call. It costs a little bit, but you'll get LOTS of responses - just be clear it's a free project, and offer them a copy of it when it's done. Don't get too carried away trying to find the perfect cast and crew - the more you do yourself, the more you'll learn.
How do I join? Do I have to make a film if I join?
Click on the ' Newsletter' here to be subscribed to our newsletter, and check out the article 'Getting Started: How to Make a 48 Hour Film' and follow the steps! You do not have to make a film to join - joining is for anyone interested in the festival. That said, we hope you will make a film - we're sure that any of our filmmakers would tell you that it's an amazing experience.
I want to do this, but I can't afford the equipment!
Not a question, but I'll give you an answer anyway. I know my preference is to have an HDV camera, computer editing system, lights, and a decent microphone - but none of this is necessary. I'm sure you can borrow a camcorder from friends or family, you can edit in-camera, use natural light, and the mic on the camera. Will your film look as professional as mine? Probably not. But if your film is better written, acted, and directed, it won't matter!