How to make a film in 48 hours: Advice from AGBO’s No Sleep ‘til Film Fest alumni

How long does it take to create a cinematic masterpiece? Years, if you go by the trajectory of recent award-winning films. But during AGBO’s annual No Sleep ‘til Film Fest, participants prove just what kind of film magic can be done under extreme time constraints – 48 hours, to be exact. 

Now in its third year, AGBO invites No Sleep ‘til Film Fest contestants from around the globe to create a film in two days based off of a specific prompt, dropping Friday, September 29th at 5pm PT.  Once the new prompt is posted, participants will then have until Sunday, October 1st at 5pm PT to submit a short film for consideration. The best part? Winners will receive prizes, like a RED KOMODO Starter Pack, a new GoPro action camera, a Surface Pro 9 from Microsoft, a copy of DaVinci Resolve Studio from Blackmagic Design, AGBO merch and a Red Bull swag bag [Red Bull Records customized U-Turn Turntable, Custom Speaker, a collection of Vinyl from Red Bull Records, Swell Water Bottle] and the chance to receive focused mentorship from AGBO’s creative team.

“We strive to share new voices and champion emerging artists at AGBO. We are thrilled to have a platform and opportunity to share content and can’t wait to see what gets created during this year’s No Sleep ‘til Film Fest,” says AGBO’s Chief Creative Marketing and one of the contest’s judges, Marian Koltai-Levine. Other judges include AGBO’s co-founders, Anthony and Joe Russo, Chief Creative Officer Angela Russo-Otstot, Jake Aust, Chief Innovation Officer, Scott Nemes, President of TV and Michael Disco, President of Film. 

In addition to some sweet prizes, winners also become a part of AGBO’s Storytelling Collective, an alumni network of young filmmakers who have received either a grant or award from an AGBO fellowship or competition, the group works together throughout the year to support and encourage each other and other emerging talents. 

“As [members] of the Storytellers Collective, we've felt first hand what it's like to be championed by AGBO. There's a professional generosity and inclusion that is modeled. We all carry that same mantra of cheering on fellow emerging filmmakers and storytellers with their unique voice,” says NSTFF alum Joel Phillips. 

Read more about the No Sleep ‘til Film Fest guidelines here 

We spoke to recent NSTFF alumni about the experience to get the best advice for creating a powerful film in two days. Thinking of entering the contest, this year or in the future? Read some of the best takeaways from recent NSTFF winners that will help you practice and prepare for the challenge.  

Be sure to check back on September 29th for this year’s prompt. 

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Tip #1: Get prepared, get organized, and get scrappy 

“Prepare as much as possible ahead of the prompt being released. Establish your crew, equipment and locations. This will enable you to make the most of the time and be creatively free. Minimize logistics ahead of time so you have more time for shooting! You’ll need every hour you can get.” — Pip White, NSTFF 2021 1st Place Winner, “Happy Day”

“Prepare as much as you can! Assemble your team in advance, what equipment you will use, and think of potential shooting locations so you can pivot to what’s best for your story when the prompt drops.” — Kali Castro Davis, NSTFF 2021 1st Place Winner, “Happy Day”

“Allow yourself plenty of time to write and edit. We all want to make something with high production value, but you should be realistic about your time constraints. Try to write something that isn’t too complicated to film. Be resourceful and get scrappy!” — Jake Barcus, NSTFF 2022 Honorable Mention, “Sins of our Sons”

“Don't hesitate?! Jump in! Text some people and clear the calendar. Even if it's last minute, make no excuses and just jump in. Exercising the creative muscle (and collaboration) is always worth it.” — Joel Phillips, NSTFF 2022 2nd Place Winner, "TRADE."

“Once the prompt is released, allow for flexibility when the filming occurs. Being flexible and allowing ourselves to deviate and expand from the script has allowed us to maximize our ideas.” — Joe Daru & Alessandro “AxiA” Serradimigni, NSTFF 2021 & 2022 Honorable Mention, “The Riddle” and “The Domino Effect”

Tip #2: Figure out what helps you stay awake 

“The only thing that will keep me awake for 48 hours is a film contest!” — Kali Castro Davis, NSTFF 2021 1st Place Winner, “Happy Day”

“Staying awake is not fun, but making something you’re proud of is. Once you see your vision start coming together, you won’t be worried about sleep.” — Jake Barcus, NSTFF 2022 Honorable Mention, “Sins of our Sons”

“Energy drinks are a must, but don’t forget the power of staying hydrated! If I’m ever tired and in a creative slump, getting out and going for a walk usually helps me tidy up my brain!” — Clay Lacey, NSTFF 2022 3rd Place Winner, “Movie, The Film: A Motion Picture”

“Coffee is always a welcome friend, but honestly the thrill and adrenaline rush of the ticking clock works wonders in keeping one going. When people start getting punchy, often that’s when the ideas really start getting good!” — Pip White, NSTFF 2021 1st Place Winner, “Happy Day”

“I must confess… I slept! Only a few hours granted but with the time difference in the UK to the US it would be nearly impossible to stay up the whole time! In general though, get together with friends - that keeps the energy up. Just try not to kill each other when the tiredness does set in.” — Alex Maxwell, NSTFF 2021 Honorable Mention, “Soup”

Tip #4: Lean into your side passions for extra creative energy 

“I love a good adventure, so I'll gladly lose sleep for early morning road trips or late night moonlight hikes. Don't even get me started on waking up to see the sunrise over a gorgeous view!” — Waldo Levendal, NSTFF 2022 1st Place Winner, “P E N”

“I love the culinary arts! I’m a total food snob. I love finding great restaurants, from hole-in-the-wall places to fine dining.” — Kali Castro Davis, NSTFF 2021 1st Place Winner, “Happy Day”

“I love spending time with my family. I’ll lose sleep to be with them any day! Besides that, I enjoy exercising, being outdoors, reading, traveling, and of course, watching movies.” — Clay Lacey, NSTFF 2022 3rd Place Winner, “Movie, The Film: A Motion Picture”

Tip #5: Don’t overcomplicate or add pressure – have fun 

“Keep It Simple... You don't have the time for intricacy. Tell a simple story and follow the prompt extremely closely; but be sure to tell your story as intended.” — Waldo Levendal, NSTFF 2022 1st Place Winner, “P E N”

“Once I let go of the pressure of ‘trying to win,’ and just had fun creating, I was able to make a film the judges enjoyed.” — Clay Lacey, NSTFF 2022 3rd Place Winner, “Movie, The Film: A Motion Picture”

“Whilst I’m guilty of it myself, try not to come with ideas ahead of getting the prompt! I promise they’ll all go out the window once you get it!” — Alex Maxwell, NSTFF 2021 Honorable Mention, “Soup”

“When you’re forced to tell a story in 48 hours, there’s no time for B.S. – it’s the filmmaking process distilled to its purest form.” — Eric Yang, NSTFF 2021 & 2022 Honorable Mention, “Unsend'' and “Distance”

‍Read more about the No Sleep ‘til Film Fest guidelines here.

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