The 48 Hour Film Project, the world’s premier international filmmaking competition, is back with its exhilarating annual event in Johannesburg. Filmmakers from all corners of Gauteng are set to compete in a race against the clock, pushing their creative boundaries to produce a captivating film within just 48 hours. The competition, hosted by the esteemed organization SAFATA Academy, offers participants a unique opportunity to showcase their talent and passion on an international stage.
From budding filmmakers to seasoned professionals, the Johannesburg 48 Hour Film Project attracts individuals from all walks of life, united by their shared love for storytelling through the lens. The competition is designed to test participants’ ingenuity, collaboration, and resourcefulness by providing them with a challenging time constraint.
“Film enthusiasts worldwide eagerly anticipate the annual 48 Hour Film Project as it offers an unparalleled platform to showcase their cinematic skills,” said Nicholas, newly appointed City Producer of the Johannesburg 48 Hour Film Project. “The competition pushes participants to think on their feet, fostering a sense of camaraderie among filmmakers who share a common goal: to create something extraordinary under intense pressure.”
Here’s how it works: participating teams are given a mandatory character, prop, line of dialogue, and genre on Friday evening, kicking off the adrenaline-fueled countdown. From that moment on, filmmakers have just 48 hours to write, direct, edit, and produce a complete short film masterpiece. The results are nothing short of awe-inspiring, as participants weave tales ranging from gripping dramas to side-splitting comedies, all while adhering to the strict time limit.
What sets the 48 Hour Film Project apart is its global reach. Teams from over 45 countries are expected to take part in this year’s competition, turning it into a truly international affair. It’s a chance for filmmakers to gain recognition on a worldwide scale and connect with like-
minded individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds, exchanging ideas and experiences that fuel their creative growth.
The 48 Hour Film Project culminates in a series of exciting events held in over 100 major cities across the globe – including the City of Gold here in Mzanzi! The screenings, which are open to the public, provide a remarkable opportunity for film enthusiasts to witness the fruits of filmmakers’ labour and celebrate their accomplishments. This year, the Johannesburg 48 Hour Film Project are extremely excited to once again partner with Ster-Kinekor as our local screening partner that will give all the teams their platform to see their dreams on screens.
The films are judged by esteemed professionals from the film industry, and the winning entries from each city go on to compete at the international level at The Filmapalooza for the coveted Best Film title. Not only does winning films get to represent their team, city, and film at Filmapalooza, but they also stand the chance to be selected as one of the few teams who also make it through to a screening opportunity at the Short Film Corner at the World-Renowned Cannes Film Festival.
The Johannesburg 48 Hour Film Project National Awards will take place end of August 2023 once the competition has wrapped and judges have deliberated, and the awards is proudly hosted in partnership and sponsorship with the Centurion Theatre & Scenario College. Furthermore, thanks to the loyal and undevoted partnership with Canon South Africa, a pioneering and preferred supplier too all aspiring filmmakers from young to old – some lucky filmmakers at this year’s 48 Awards will be walking away with incredible prizes, state-of-the-art cameras and gears all compliments of Canon. There is also amazing awards, phenomenal trophies, and scholarship opportunities up for grabs.
“Every year, we witness the birth of exceptional films that have been brought to life through passion, talent, and a shared spirit of determination,” said Danielle Bennett, Co-Producer of The Johannesburg 48 Hour Film Project. “It is an honour to be a part of this prestigious competition and witness the incredible stories that emerge from such a unique and intense filmmaking experience. For many the 48 Hour Film Project has kicked started many aspiring filmmakers’ careers”
The Johannesburg 48 Hour Film Project provides a remarkable platform for filmmakers to gain exposure and recognition in the industry. Notable success stories from past participants include festival screenings, distribution deals, and even career-launching opportunities. Furthermore, thanks to the hosting company, SAFATA Academy, all participating teams will also get the opportunity to attend free & exclusive filmmaking masterclasses led by industry experts.
The Johannesburg 48 Hour Film Project takes places this year from the 11th – 13th of August 2023. Registrations for this year’s competition are now open, and filmmakers are encouraged to assemble their teams and embrace the challenge. To learn more about the 48 Hour Film Project and register your team, please visit www.48hourfilm.com/johannesburg
