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48hr Sparks Film Race: Official Rules

The 48hr Sparks Film Race is a high-energy, fast-paced film competition aimed at aspiring filmmakers, seasoned professionals, and everyone in between! Hosted by the City of Mansfield, this competition challenges participants to create short films from scratch — all within 48 hours. Whether you’re new to filmmaking or looking to expand your network, 48hr Sparks provides a platform to build skills, collaborate with fellow creatives, and engage with Texas’s growing film community.

Who Can Participate?

This event is open to filmmakers of all levels:

  • Young filmmakers who want to learn, collaborate, and showcase their talents.

  • Veteran filmmakers interested in giving back, networking, and mentoring emerging filmmakers.

  • Beginner filmmakers who want to dive into filmmaking and test their skills under a tight deadline.

  • Film enthusiasts who want to be part of a creative community.

How It Works:

  1. Team Formation

    • Participants can form teams of any size, from individuals to large groups.

    • Teams must register in advance and attend the mandatory briefing session (details will be provided upon registration).

  2. The Challenge

    • At the beginning of the 48-hour period, teams will receive the official genre and required elements that must be included in their film.

    • These elements typically include:

      • A specific genre (e.g., horror, comedy, drama, etc.)

      • A prop that must appear in the film

      • A line of dialogue to be included

    • The goal is to incorporate these elements creatively into a 5 to 7-minute film that is entertaining, engaging, and technically well-executed.

  3. The 48-Hour Timeframe

    • The clock starts once the official challenge is revealed. Teams will have 48 hours to complete their film, from scripting and shooting to editing and delivering the final product.

    • Filmmakers can work day or night, but time is tight — all work must be completed within the time limit.

  4. Film Submission

    • Films must be dropped off at designated before the deadline strikes. Late submissions will not be accepted.

    • All films must follow the technical specifications provided (resolution, format, etc.).

  5. Screening & Judging

    • After submission, all completed films will be screened at an exclusive 48hr Sparks Film Showcase.

    • Judging Criteria will include creativity, technical execution, originality, and how well the required elements were incorporated.

    • Audience voting may also play a role in the final selection of winners.

Awards & Recognition

  • Prizes will be awarded in various categories, including:

    • Best Film

    • 2nd Place

    • 3rd Place

    • Best Direction

    • Best Cinematography

    • Best Editing

    • Audience Favorite

  • Winners will receive industry recognition, mentorship opportunities, and a chance to showcase their work at local film festivals.

Key Dates for the 2025-2026 Season

  • Fall 2025 Race: Dates to be announced soon.

  • Winter 2025-2026 Race: Dates to be announced soon.

  • Spring 2026 Race: Dates to be announced soon.

  • Summer 2026 Race: Dates to be announced soon.

Why Participate?

  • Build Your Filmmaking Skills: Whether you’re behind the camera or editing in post-production, this challenge is designed to teach you how to make a film in a limited time frame.

  • Networking Opportunities: Collaborate with other filmmakers, industry professionals, and creatives. Share ideas, skills, and experience.

  • Be Part of the Texas Film Community: The 48hr Sparks Film Race aims to showcase the amazing talent in Texas. Become a part of a community that’s growing stronger each season.

  • Launch Your Career: This is your chance to kickstart your filmmaking journey or take your skills to the next level.

Additional Rules and Guidelines

  • Eligibility: All ages are welcome. Teams can consist of filmmakers of any experience level.

  • Team Size: There are no restrictions on team size, but larger teams may need to assign roles for more efficient production.

  • Original Work: All films must be original creations and not pre-existing works. Music, sound, and footage must be created or properly licensed for the competition.

  • Film Length: Films must be no longer than 7 minutes and no shorter than 5 minutes in total duration (including credits).

How to Register:

  • Registration Fee: TBA

  • Registration Deadline: TBA

  • Submit Your Team: TBA

FAQs

  • What happens if we don’t finish in time?
    Unfortunately, any film that misses the 48-hour deadline will be disqualified from the competition. We will still show your film if you don't make the deadline. Make sure your team manages time wisely!

  • Can we use our own equipment?
    Yes, you can use your own gear, as long as it meets the technical requirements for submission.

  • Do we need a permit to film in certain locations?
    Participants should secure necessary location permits in advance. The competition is intended to be a low-budget challenge, but safety and legal requirements must be met.

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