WORDS / JORDAN ASH

Every year, along with other cities all over the country, Little Rock has a competition where filmmakers come together in opposing teams on a Friday evening and draw a random genre. After they have drawn, they have exactly 48 hours to write, film, edit, add music and credits, and everything else there is to do in order to make a completed film with a time no longer than seven minutes by Sunday evening. For the past few years, more and more teams show up to play. Some teams have veterans who do the competition every year, as well as new filmmakers eager to expose themselves and show their creativity while practicing their craft.

When a team draws their genre, not only do they have to write a story, but they must use the three plot elements given to them by one of the judges before they embark on their crazy adventure over the weekend. The elements are that the main character must have the name of the judges choice, a certain prop and a line of dialogue. All must be included in the film or it will not be eligible.

This year, the name of the character is Andy/Annie Benoit and they have to be a plumber. The prop needed is a horn. And lastly, the line of dialogue is, ” Tell me the truth.”  The result ends up being one of the craziest and funnest times of watching each teams films portray each element.

The team’s wrote and produced their films over the weekend of August 16-18.  The screenings of  The 48 Hour Film Project premieres at 7 PM August 29-31 at the Bank of America building (fourth floor), located at 200 W. Capitol Avenue in Little Rock.

I was able to speak with a couple competitors over the weekend and ask them some questions on what they enjoy about the 48hr film project.  Scott McEntire is at his fourth year in a row competing. This year is his first time leading a team.  Kelly Griffin is competing for his eighth time.

Here’s what they had to say:

Idle Class – Has the 48 Hour Film Project become more popular each year resulting in more and more teams to compete?

K.G. – We had over 30 teams this year. I’m not sure if there is a drastic increase in teams, but there certainly is an increase in team size. Lots more people are making movies now.

S.M. – It has held its popularity, but the quality and diversity of films are growing. There is a broader spectrum of everyday people doing it while the pros are sitting it out more often.

I.C. – Why do you like the 48 Hour Film Project?

K.G. – I love the challenge of it. I also love telling stories with pictures and working with people to get great performances. I love all the aspects, but I love directing and shooting the most.

S.M. – It is the mother of all projects. It is also the very best way to expand your network and find people to work with on longer term film projects. And it is one of the few opportunities each year where many of my friends will be present at the same time. It’s a big party.

I.C. – Do you think it’s a good experience to show a glimpse of how hectic this lifestyle can be if one were to pursue it as a career?

K.G. – It is the best film school you will ever experience.

S.M. – It offers a great insight, but since most team members aren’t around for the most time-critical post-production process, I still don’t think most people fully understand what it takes to make a complete film. Shooting pretty images doesn’t matter if you can’t compile them into a logical, flowing story.

I.C. – Would you consider this competition to others who haven’t done it yet? 

K.G. – I get new people involved every year. That’s why the team grows every year. They keep coming back. It’s addicting.

S.M. – If someone is interested in film in any way, they should join a team and do this. Come open-minded, ready to have fun, but ready to get exhausted.

To learn more, visit Little Rock 48 Hour Film Project website.

 

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