24-Hour Film Challenge

Updated Fall 2026

FAQ +
Official Rules

Everything your team needs to know before the clock starts Friday, October 2.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the 24-Hour Film Challenge?

Teams—or individuals—have 24 hours to create a short film from start to finish. You do not need a team to participate; people without a team can connect with others at kickoff.

What is the registration fee?

There is currently no registration fee.

What will my film be about?

At kickoff, we’ll draw four required creative elements: a theme, location, prop, and color. All four must appear in every participant's film and will be a major part of judging. Genre and story are up to you.

How many people can be on a team?

Each team may have up to six crew members. Beyond that, you may include as many actors, extras, and locations as needed.

Do I need a finalized cast and crew list before the challenge?

No. However, all cast and crew must be credited in the closing credit sequence.

What is the time limit for films?

  • Maximum: Six minutes, including required credits.
  • Minimum: None. Your story could be 30 seconds or 5:59.

What format should I submit?

  • File type: MP4 only.
  • Delivery: Upload to the official OneDrive folder link provided at kickoff.
  • Deadline: Saturday, October 3 at 4 PM.

Who judges the films?

A rotating panel of current TDMP students, alumni, faculty, and industry professionals. The panel changes yearly to provide fresh perspectives and actionable feedback.

Are stock images, music, or footage allowed?

Yes, if they are legally licensed and credited. All sources must be cited in your required closing credits.

Is generative AI allowed?

AI-generated video or imagery is not allowed. If AI-generated video or imagery is found in a submission, the team will be disqualified.
  • Scripts and dialogue: Generative AI is not allowed. Your team must write the script.
  • Brainstorming and outlining: Generative AI may be used only to break a creative block, such as suggesting story ideas, genres, or a structural outline. Your team must still craft the story and script.
  • Disclosure: Any generative AI use (even brainstorming) must be disclosed in the closing credits under “AI Tools Used.”

Is animation allowed?

Yes, but it must be created entirely within the official 24-hour period.

Are visual effects allowed?

Yes, as long as they are created within the 24-hour period using legal software.

Can we use existing logo animations or branding?

No. Branding must be created for this challenge only. After the event, you may create alternate versions of your film for other uses.

Who owns the film?

Filmmakers retain ownership. The 24-Hour Film Challenge reserves the right to post submitted films, whole or in part, on YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, and other channels to promote the challenge.

The essentials

Official rules

Filmmaking period: Friday, October 2 at 4 PM through Saturday, October 3 at 4 PM.
  • Submission deadline: Films must be submitted by 4 PM Saturday, October 3 to qualify for judging. Late submissions may still be screened but will not be judged.
  • Required credits: Every film must include a closing credit sequence listing, at minimum, all cast and crew plus any stock media, AI tools, or outside sources used.
  • Gear: Bring your own mobile phones, cameras, tripods, lights, audio equipment, and related gear. Students on campus will have access to the editing labs in CVL 336 and CVL 311.
  • Talent and location releases: Releases are required for all on-camera talent and any private-property location. Download the 2026 actor/talent and location release forms.
  • Minors: Minors may participate as actors with a signed parental or teacher release.
  • Production costs: Teams cover their own costs, including props, costumes, travel, and food.

What judges consider

Judging criteria

Best use of required creative elements
Storytelling
Composition + lighting
Editing

Ready to join the challenge?

Sign up now