WILLEMSTAD - The 48 Hour Film Project Curaçao is back, and registration is officially open. From October 17–19, hobbyists, students, and experienced filmmakers alike will have the chance to showcase their creativity. This unique competition is now being held for the 9th time on Curaçao, and the winners of the competition have the opportunity to represent Curaçao at the international short film festival Filmapalooza in Lisbon in 2026 — and possibly also being screened at the world-renowned Cannes Film Festival.
The Concept of the 48 Hour Film Project
Launched in 2001 in Washington, D.C., the project has grown into a worldwide phenomenon. The concept is simple: contestants put a team together and have one weekend to write, shoot, and edit a short film of 4 to 7 minutes. Each team is assigned required elements that must appear in the film, including a prop, a character, and a specific line of dialogue. Just before kickoff, each team draws a unique genre, which defines their film. The adventure begins at 7:00 p.m. on Friday, October 17, and teams then have exactly 48 hours to deliver their finished masterpiece.
Screenings and Award Show
On Wednesday, October 29, all short films made during the competition will be screened at The Movies Punda, followed by a spectacular award show on Thursday, October 30. A professional jury will judge the films in several categories, including Best Film, and there will also be an Audience Choice Award. Tickets for both days are available through the website of The Movies Curaçao and the box office in Punda. Everyone is welcome to watch the films and support the local filmmakers.
Special Guest
Thanks to the efforts of the organizers, in collaboration with the Curaçao Film Office, this year’s award show on October 30th will be attended by the founder of the 48 Hour Film Project himself, Mark Ruppert. During his visit to Curaçao, Mr. Ruppert will be holding several meetings to explore the possibility of selecting Curaçao as host city for the international short film festival Filmapalooza. If selected, this could give an incredible boost to the local film community.
International Round
The winning film from Curaçao will be screened at Filmapalooza, taking place in Lisbon in March 2026. There, Curaçao’s entry will compete against winning films from more than 200 cities worldwide. The festival offers a fantastic opportunity to network with international filmmakers, attend workshops, and enjoy screenings of the best short films from around the world, including Curaçao. Thanks to the support of local sponsors, members of the 48 Hour Film Project Curacao winning team will have the chance to travel to Lisbon and attend Filmapalooza. The top films from Filmapalooza will also be screened at the Short Film Corner at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival.
Organization
The 48 Hour Film Project Curaçao is organized by Melissa Verboeket of Maction Caribbean B.V. and Bert Aengenendt. Verboeket says: “We are extremely proud to be organizing this competition on Curaçao for the 9th time, and even more excited that the international organization is considering bringing Filmapalooza to the island. So especially now, we need to inspire even more filmmakers to participate, because how amazing would it be if, during a Filmapalooza held in Curaçao, a local team would take home the big win?”. Aengenendt adds: “This competition offers a unique opportunity for filmmakers of all levels to test their creativity and teamwork. It’s all about a passion for film and the art of storytelling. And what could be more exciting than seeing your creation on the big screen?”. Both organizers emphasize: “Whether you’re working with a smartphone or professional film equipment, anything goes — as long as you follow the required elements and deliver your film within 48 hours. And especially for students: gather your friends, grab your camera or phone, and take on the challenge and show us the story you can tell in 48 hours!”
Participation
It’s still possible to sign up for the competition. Visit 48hourfilm.com/curacao or check out the 48 Hour Film Project Curaçao social media pages for more information and registration. You can also contact the organizers directly at curacao@48hourfilm.com .
Become a Sponsor and Make a Difference!
The 9th edition of the 48 Hour Film Project Curaçao is made possible by the generous support of CX PayMe, MCB, Curaçao Film Office, Mangusa Hypermarket, IFA Solar Energy, Vidanova Bank, Kia/Universal Motors, 2Bays Curaçao, and Enterprise Rent-A-Car.
Would you like to put your company in the spotlight while helping to foster local talent and creativity? Become a sponsor of this inspiring project! Contact us at curacao@48hourfilm.com and support Curaçao’s growing film community.
