Film Society’s 48-Hour Film Challenge gives students the opportunity to make creative films

Image courtesy of the Film Society

NORMAL, Ill. – Illinois State University’s Film Society is hosting a 48-Hour Film Challenge, allowing students to produce, shoot and edit films for a live audience.

Students will begin work on Friday, April 17, and complete their films by Sunday, April 19. The finished projects will be showcased on Tuesday, April 21, at the Center for the Visual Arts, Room 0149.

Film Society President Kenzie Schmidt said the goal of the event is to encourage creativity, even among students with little or no filmmaking experience.

“It’s a really fun way to practice film skills and get into it if they’ve never really done anything before,” Schmidt said.

Organizers hope to expand the event’s audience through interviews, flyers and a stronger social media presence.

Participants will be judged on their use of a required prop and word, as well as overall effort and artistic merit, Schmidt said.

The challenge emphasizes creativity and effort, while also giving students the chance to compete and showcase their work. Organizers plan to continue hosting similar events in the future.

Winners will receive prizes such as AMC gift cards, popcorn and other movie-themed treats.

Schmidt said she hopes participants will create lasting memories with friends and use the experience to build their filmmaking skills.

The Film Society is preparing for its third 48-hour film challenge and hopes to establish it as a yearly or semester tradition.