Registrations are now open for the 48 Hour Film Project, the world’s largest international short film festival which begins on 19 August at the Cape Audio College in Cape Town.
The winning film goes on to Los Angeles to compete in the next leg of the competition. The top ten films in LA will then be accepted for screening at the Cannes Film Festival.
According to organisers Bench Films, besides the international exposure promised by the competition, many of the short films have gone on to win at other festivals too.
“Three films from last year’s competition were accepted into the Durban International Film Festival which is fantastic considering these films were made in 48hrs,’ says producer Hisham Samie.
The challenge and exhilaration of making a short film in 48 hours is intense. “The 48HFP is an opportunity for so many filmmakers to stop talking and start making,’ says Samie. “In one weekend we have 30 plus short films made and screened. Filmmakers need to stay shoot fit and keep creating content and the competition restrictions facilitate that.’
“Aside from making the films, every year we see great comradery among cast and crew, and new working relationships have been formed.’
The competition continues to grow every year. Last year, 36 teams participated, with more than 800 cast and crew involved. This year, Bench Films is hoping to draw 44 teams.
“This year we will be giving away a two year bursary to the value of R14 0000, sponsored by City Varsity,’ he says. “This is really exciting as we have a great range of emerging filmmakers which enter every year and with a two year diploma course at City Varsity we feel that one lucky filmmaker will be able to hone their craft and take that important step into their career.’
This year also has a very interesting rule change around the drawing of the genres.
Interested filmmakers must register by 5 August. The early bird entry fee is R1000 and the early bird deadline is the 25 July. Entries thereafter will need to pay R1200 to enter.
Filming commences on 19 August at Cape Audio College and the drop off will be at Cape Audio College on 21 August. Screenings will take place at Ster-Kinekor Nouveau on 27 and 28 August.
To register and find out more visit the 48 Hour Film Project website or contact Hisham Samie at capetown@48hourfilm.com.
