City-Specific Challenges:
1. Seattle, WA: 8 teams
• Challenge: Create a thriller that utilizes unpredictable weather and natural landscapes.
• Requirements:
• Incorporate at least three different natural settings.
• Weather conditions should play a pivotal role in the plot.
• Budget: $1,000. Sponsored by :__________
2. Los Angeles, CA: 7 teams left
• Challenge: Film a car chase sequence for an action short, working with professional stunt drivers and stunt teams.
• Requirements:
• Include at least one high-intensity car chase scene.
• Follow all safety guidelines for stunts.
• Budget: $2,000. Sponsored by :__________
3. Albuquerque, NM: 6 teams left
• Challenge: Build sets and work on a soundstage to produce a drama film.
• Requirements:
• Construct at least one significant set piece.
• The story must be confined to indoor settings.
• Budget: $5,000. Sponsored by :__________
4. Fort Worth, TX: 5 teams left
• Challenge: Create a western film involving large live animals, animal wranglers, and gun safety on set.
• Requirements:
• Feature at least one live animal in a key scene.
• Include elements of classic westerns (duels, horseback scenes, etc.).
• Budget: $7,500. Sponsored by :__________
5. New Orleans, LA: 4 teams left
• Challenge: Produce a supernatural horror film that taps into the city’s rich folklore and haunted history.
• Requirements:
• Incorporate elements of voodoo or local legends.
• Use iconic New Orleans locations to enhance the atmosphere.
• Budget: $9,000. Sponsored by :__________
6. Atlanta, GA: 3 teams left
• Challenge: Create a sci-fi short film using a volume stage and collaborate with visual effects teams.
• Requirements:
• Employ virtual production techniques.
• Include at least two scenes with significant visual effects.
• Budget: $10,000. Sponsored by :__________
7. Chicago, IL: 2 teams left
• Challenge: Produce a period piece set between the 1930s and 1970s.
• Requirements:
• Choose a specific decade and reflect it accurately through costumes, props, and settings.
• Story should be influenced by historical events or culture of the chosen era.
• Budget: $12,000. Sponsored by :__________
8. New York City, NY: THE SEASON FINALE
• Ultimate Challenge: Create an ambitious short film that showcases the team’s cumulative skills acquired throughout the competition, all while navigating the unique challenges of filming in the bustling environment of New York City.
Requirements :Demonstrate Learned Skills
• Advanced Technical Proficiency: Utilize high-level cinematography, lighting, sound design, editing, and post-production. techniques honed in previous rounds.
• Complex Production Elements: Incorporate challenging aspects such as intricate camera movements, large-scale scenes, or coordination with numerous extras.
• Efficient Workflow: Apply effective pre-production planning, time management, and teamwork to complete the project within the 5-day timeframe.
• Collaboration: Engage with local talent and industry professionals to enhance the production value.
• Navigate NYC Filming Challenges:
• Permitting and Legalities: Successfully obtain all necessary filming permits and comply with city regulations.
• Logistical Planning: Strategize around crowded locations, traffic patterns, and restricted areas to execute scenes smoothly.
• Public Interaction: Manage onlookers and maintain control of the set in open, busy environments.
• Limited Access and Time Constraints: Optimize shooting schedules around location availability and city ordinances (e.g., noise restrictions, peak hours).
• Original Storytelling:
• Unique Narrative: Craft a compelling and original story that reflects the team’s creativity without being tied to genres from previous challenges.
• Cultural Integration: Incorporate elements that capture the essence of New York City’s diversity and vibrancy.
• Emotional Impact: Aim for a narrative that resonates with audiences on a deeper level, showcasing matured storytelling abilities.
• Budget Management:
• Resource Allocation: Wisely use the $20,000 budget to cover all aspects of production, including permits, location fees, equipment rentals, talent, and any special requirements.
• Financial Reporting: Provide a detailed budget breakdown upon submission, demonstrating fiscal responsibility and planning.
• Budget: $20,000. Sponsored by :__________
Additional Guidelines for the New York City Challenge:
• Safety and Ethics:
• Public Safety: Implement measures to ensure the safety of both the production team and the general public during filming.
• Respect for Locations: Leave all filming locations in the same or better condition than they were found.
• Professional Conduct: Maintain professionalism when interacting with city officials, locals, and any third parties.
• Technical Specifications:
• Film Duration: The final short film should be between 10 to 15 minutes.
• Submission Materials: Along with the film, submit a behind-the-scenes featurette (up to 5 minutes) highlighting the production process and challenges faced. (This is for all rounds)
• Format and Quality: Deliver the film in the specified high-resolution digital format, ensuring top-notch audio and visual quality.