The Neptune Cinema: 53-Hour Film Challenge!
Indie Filmmaking Challenge in Memphis!
Join us for The Neptune Cinema 53-Hour Film Challenge, created to inspire creativity and nurture artistic filmmaking in Memphis.
Each participating TEAM will have 53 hours to write, shoot, edit and score their film.
Sponsored by:
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On Location Memphis
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The Auteur Club
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Memphis Music BANQ
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Flyway Brewing Company
The Neptune Cinema:
53-Hour Film Challenge
Join us for a brand new fast-paced filmmaking challenge in Memphis, TN! Collaborate with talented local artists, compete for awards & showcase your creativity in Memphis!
Festival Winner receives prize package of 1-free year membership in The OLM Auteur Club & 1-free 30-minute business consultation.
(*We also offer a 30-day membership trial for the Auteur Club to anyone signing up for a COMPOSER role on a team, through the Memphis Music Banq. The Auteur Club membership includes film music composing tutorials that they can access within that 30-day trial.)
Overview
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What? Create a short film (up to 7 minutes, plus 60 seconds for credits) in 53 hours, incorporating a randomly assigned genre, a unique prop for your team, & a required line of dialogue (same for all teams).
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Who? Memphis Filmmakers and Artists of all skill levels! Form a team, register, & join the fun!
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When? Kickoff at 6:00 PM on Friday, Sept. 19 - (Filmmaking challenge begins 7:00 PM)
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Films are due Sunday, Sept. 21 at midnight.
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Screening & awards the following Friday, Sept. 26 at 6:00 PM.
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Where? At the fabulous Flyway Brewing Company (598 Monroe Ave, Memphis, TN 38103)
Registration
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Team Entry Fees:
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Early Bird (July 22 – Aug. 9): $65 per team.
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Regular (Aug. 10 – Sept. 9): $80 per team.
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Late (Sept. 10 – Sept. 19): $95 per team.
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Team Size: No strict limit, but teams typically include 3–10 members (writers, actors, editors, etc.).
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Limit: Up to 23 teams to ensure screening time (first-come, first-served).
Festival Timeline
(Click here for Event Schedule)
Rules
(Click here for official rules)
Tips for Success
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Plan Ahead: Assemble your team and test equipment before the kickoff.
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Keep It Simple: A clear story with the prop and dialogue line stands out.
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Time Management: Allocate time for writing, shooting, & editing within the 53 hours.
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Have Fun! - Embrace the challenge and enjoy the creative rush!
Register your Team today!
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Showcase your filmmaking skills in a high-energy, time-constrained environment.
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See your film screened with an audience at Flyway Brewing Company.
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Network with local filmmakers and creative minds.
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Compete for awards and recognition at the screening.
Ready to make a film in 53 hours?
For questions, contact [Neptunefilmfest@gmail.com]
Lights, camera, action! Let’s make movie magic!