48-hour challenge rules & faq, everything you've ever wanted to know about the challenge.

We've created this FAQ after fielding hundreds of questions about the challenge. We've been very thorough to ensure we've covered everything we can think of. If you have any questions not answered in this FAQ, email them to us, and we'll be happy to reply.

Section 1 - Preparing to Enter

Who supplies the equipment?

Your team is responsible for securing all technical equipment. The TFC does not provide any of this gear, although we do have a number of vendors who are offering special discount to challenge participants. Be sure to request it from your slected vendor.

Who is allowed to compete?

You are eligible to compete if you are a resident of the GTA. The team producer must be 18 years or older and no one is permitted to be paid for their services. The challenge is open to all skill levels, from students to seasoned professionals. Everyone gets their fair shot at taking home the prizes.

Can we prep anything before the challenge begins?

Yes. You may secure locations, cast/crew, equipment and music before the challenge begins. All other requirements such as writing, wardrobe, props, shooting, editing, and effects must be completed within the 48-hour time period. This must be followed and is strictly enforced. We rely heavily on the honor system for this one, so please play fair.

What happens if I don't get my film in on time?

8pm on Sunday is the cut off for competition. If your film is submitted late it will not be accepted for competition or screening. Don't be disappointed, time management is everything - traffic and technical excuses are not good excuses.

What does my $250 entry fee get me?

Your entry fee secures your team a spot in the challenge and a chance to win over $15,000 in prizes. Your team also gets free entry into all the screenings, including the top 10 screening and awards ceremony.

What's in the challenge packs?

Your challenge pack contains elements that you must incorporate into your film. You will be judged on your ability to creatively incorporate these elements into your story in a seamless fashion. Each challenge pack is different and will contain a central conflict, a prop, a location, a line or word, a character trait & a mini DV tape.

How many teams members can I have?

Teams are permitted to use up to 10 people to create their films. This includes everyone, from technicians to actors. There is no minimum.

Who is considered background and are they part of my 10?

Background are non featured, non speaking parts and are used to create atmosphere in your scene. They do NOT count as part of your 10 team members. Please note that if a member of your background is easily definable, they must sign a release form. See 'general release form' in the documents section.

Can we use stock footage in our film?

No, stock footage is not permitted. All of your film elements (excluding music) must be made within the 48-hour time period.

My friend is in a band, can I use her music in my film?

Yes you can, but you must secure a release for it. You can download a general release off our website which all of the song rights holders must sign.

How do I add or change a member of my team?

To add or change a member of your team, email enter@torontofilmchallenge.com with the change/addition by July 3rd at 6pm. After that, team rosters are locked, and no changes will be accepted.

Section 2 - The Kickoff and Shoot

Who needs to come to the kick-off?

The team producer must be present at the kickoff and is permitted to bring one additional team member. Due to venue restictions, the entire team is not required to attend the kick-off.

What do we need to bring to the kickoff?

You need to bring your 'terms & agreements' paperwork, signed off by the producer to hand in before you compete. This paperwork is part of the registration process.

Can I exchange challenge packs with another group?

No, you must use the challenge pack you are assigned. We realize it's a challenge, that's the point.

Are ACTRA members allowed to be in my film?

Not officially. Although we have had a number of ACTRA members compete in the past without any problems, we are not yet officially recognized by ACTRA. This is something we are working on changing, and we can use your help. If you are an ACTRA member, talk to your union and let them know you want to be allowed to take part.

Section 3 - The Drop-off and Judging

What do we hand in at the drop-off?

Inside your challenge pack you will find a manila envelope with submission instructions. You must submit you finished film on Mini DV along with your wrap up forms sealed inside the envelope.

Where is the drop-off?

Queen video on Bloor St. (480 Bloor st. W.)
Sunday, July 6th, by 8pm

Are there any rating restrictions? I want to make a violent porn with lots of cussing.

Yes, please keep your movies to a PG-13 rating. Bad language and mature themes are ok, but keep in mind that one of the end goal for these films is broadcast, so keep it within reason.

What happens if we cheat?

You will be disqualified from the challenge and everyone will point and laugh at you. Bottom line, don't cheat, it ruins it for everyone.

What is the judging process?

Once your films are received, they are screened in their entirety by the TFC jury. The jury selects the top 20 films and sends them to the judges.

Who makes up the TFC Jury?

The jury is made up of the TFC producers, and hand selected industry professionals.

Who are the judges?

Each challenge we select 3 industry judges who have demonstrated success and mastery in their craft. Their bios are posted online when they are selected.

What are the prizes and who wins them?

The prizes are generously donated by our sponsors and total approx. $15,000 in value. They are given away along with the awards to the winning teams at the closing top 10 screening. Winners are selected in the following categories: Best Picture, Best original screenplay, Best Director, Best Cinematographer, Best Actor (male & female), Best Editor & Audience Choice. The top 20 teams as selected by the Jury are eligible to win.

Section 4 - Technical Requirements

What are the technical guidelines for our film?

Your film must be submitted on SD mini DV NTSC (it does not have to be the exact one we've provided). We project in a 4:3 aspect ratio and widescreen films must be letterboxed.

What are the time considerations for our film?

Your film must be within 6-8 minutes including credits.

What format can we shoot on?

You may shoot on any format - DV, HD, HDV, Film, Beta etc, however your finished film must be submitted in standard definition on a mini DV tape. No exceptions. Films not submitted on Mini DV will not be screened or considered for competition.

Can we use multiple cameras?

Yes you can, up to a maximum of 2.

Any credit specifications.

Yes, but only one. Your last credit must read 'Made for the 48-hour Toronto Film Challenge - Summer 2008" and must be displayed in a readable font on a black background.

Section 5 - Screenings / Top 10 and Awards Night.

Explain the screenings?

The screenings take place at the Innis Town Hall on July 16-17 and showcase all the films made for the summer 48. The films are screened over three nights from 6:30pm-9:30pm in signup screening order. The screening lineup will be posted on the site prior to the screenings.

How much do the screenings cost and where can i get tickets?

If you participate in the challenge, your screening ticket is automatically covered in your entry fee. Guest tickets are $5.00 and can be purchased at the Innis Town Hall 30 minutes before the screening commences. As a participant you are welcome to attend all three screening nights free of charge.

What's the deal with the Top 10 & Awards Night?

The top 10 & awards night is the culmination of all your hard work. It takes place at the Bloor Cinema on Friday July 18th from 7pm-9pm. The top 10 films as selected by the judges will be screened and will be eligible for prizes, including the audience choice award. The audience will be treated to the special feature b-roll shot over the course of the competition weekend as well as a keynote presentation from a notable industry professional. The judges will also be there to present awards if they are available. Winners will receive their awards and custom made TFC trophies in person, and will be invited on stage to share a short speech with the crowd. We also take pictures of all the winners for our Flickr archive.

How much are tickets?

Like the screenings, there is no cost for participants to attend the top 10 and awards night. Public tickets are $12.00 and can be purchased at the Bloor Cinema box office at 6:30.

What happens after the screening?

After the screening is our after party at a local bar, walking distance from the theatre. Everyone is welcome to attend at no cost. The after party will feature a live DJ and drink specials. It's a great place to network and shmooze with the winners.

Section 6 - Documents

Additional Releases

Use these releases if you have a minor on your team, or if you need a release for your music, background, location and/or product.