WILLEMSTAD - The 48 Hour Film Project Curaçao is just around the corner, and registration has officially started. From September 27-29, both hobbyists and experienced filmmakers will have the chance to showcase their creativity. For the 8th time, this unique competition is taking place on the island, offering an opportunity to participate in the international film festival Filmapalooza 2025.
The Concept of the 48 Hour Film Project
Starting in 2001 in Washington, USA, the 48 Hour Film Project started as a local competition that has now become a worldwide phenomenon. The concept of the competition is simple: assemble team that then writes, shoots, and edits a short film between 4 and 7 minutes in one weekend. Each team receives several assignments that must be included in the film, such as a prop, a character, an occupation and a specific line. Each team then draws a unique genre right before the start of the competition that the film must adhere to. At 7:00 PM on Friday, September 27, the adventure begins, and teams then have exactly 48 hours to deliver their masterpiece.
Award Show and Screening
On Thursday, October 10, all films will be screened at The Movies Otrobanda, followed by a spectacular Award Show. The films will be judged by a professional jury in various categories, including Best Film. There will also be an Audience Award, voted by the audience members. The films will be available for viewing at The Movies for several more days and is open to the general public.
International Round
The winning film from Curaçao will be screened at the prestigious Filmapalooza film festival, which will take place in March 2025 in Seattle, USA. During Filmapalooza, the Curaçao entry will compete against other winners from more than 100 cities worldwide. This festival offers a fantastic opportunity to network with international filmmakers, participate in workshops, and enjoy screenings of the best short films, including those from Curaçao. Thanks to the support of local sponsors, the representatives of the winning team will have the chance to travel to Filmapalooza. Previous participants have called the festival 'broadening', 'stimulating', and 'inspiring'. The top films of Filmapalooza will also feature at the Cannes Film Festival: Short Film Corner.
Organization
Melissa Verboeket of Maction Caribbean B.V. and Bert Aengenendt are once again organizing this year’s 48 Hour Film Project Curaçao. According to Verboeket "This competition offers a unique opportunity for filmmakers of all levels to test their creativity and teamwork under time pressure." Aengenendt adds, "The beauty of this competition is that it's all about passion for film and storytelling. And how fantastic is it to see your creation on the silver screen?" Both organizers emphasize: "Whether you work with a smartphone or a professional film camera, everything is allowed as long as you adhere to the assignments and deliver a film within 48 hours."
Participation Still Possible
Currently, there is a temporary 'early bird' special applicable for registration. Visit the website 48hourfilm.com/curaçao and the social media pages of 48 Hour Film Project Curaçao for more information and to register. You can also contact us via email: curacao@48hourfilm.com.
Become a Sponsor and Make a Difference!
The 8th edition of the 48 Hour Film Project Curaçao is currently made possible by the generous support of MCB, CX Pay, IFA Solar Energy, CINEX, Curaçao Film Office, Universal Motors, and Enterprise Rent-A-Car. Do you want to put your company in the spotlight and simultaneously contribute to the growth of local talent and creativity? Become a sponsor of this inspiring project! Contact us via email: curacao@48hourfilm.com and support the film community of Curaçao.
