72 Hour Shootout

The top 50 films will be showcased in Film Lab’s TV series Film Lab Presents and the top 100 on AAFL TV

Join the annual 72 Hour Shootout filmmaking competition and break some glass ceilings!

The 72 Hour Shootout filmmaking competition (the “Shootout”) is an annual, global filmmaking competition celebrating diversity in front of and behind the camera.  

Teams compete for access to a year of free educational and networking events, mentorships with executives at major networks like ABC, cash, prizes and the chance to have their films screened at film festivals, both nationally and internationally, and on television.  The top 50 films from the Shootout will air across the country on the next season of Film Lab Presents

IMPORTANT DATES:

March 1: Registration opens online at www.film-lab.org. Register early for early bird specials and access to the Spring Filmmaking How-To Workshop Series

March 26, 6 PM – Virtual, RSVP here (free for registered competitors): Whether you’re a newcomer looking for guidance or an experienced filmmaker seeking tips on working within tight deadlines, this webinar is for you. Join Francis Chin, one of this year’s competition coordinators, as he walks you through everything you need to know—from pre-competition preparation to the final hour. You’ll be able to ask questions and exchange insights with past and fellow competitors.

72 Hour Shootout Info Session II

April 22, 7 PM – Virtual, RSVP here (free for registered competitors): Senior Shootout Coordinator Francis Chin will walk you through everything you need to know about the 2024 72 Hour Shootout filmmaking competition—from pre-competition preparation to the final hour. You’ll be able to ask questions and exchange insights with past and fellow competitors.  RSVP required.

Filmmaker How To Session with the Film Lab

May 20, 7pm – 8pm, online: Welcome to our online event where you can learn all the ins and outs of filmmaking from Francis Chin, the 72 Hour Shootout Coordinator and one of the pros at the Film Lab! Whether you’re a seasoned filmmaker or just starting out, this session is perfect for anyone looking to up their game in the world of film. Join us for tips, tricks, and insider knowledge that will help take your projects to the next level. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to learn from the best in the business!  RSVP here.

The 2024 72 Hour Shootout Launch Party!!!!!!

June 6, 6-8pm EST, live in NYC and virtual anywhere in the world: Join us for food, drinks, swag, the last minute chances to build your Shootout teams, and the announcement of the THEME of the 20th annual 72 Hour Shootout!!!!!!!!!!  RSVP here

72 hours later…: All films are due and Vimeo or retransfer download links must be sent to Shootout@filmlab.org

July/August: Launch Party for the Asian American International Film Festival. The top ten Shootout films will premiere at the festival. This is a chance to meet other filmmakers and network.

July/August: Special Private Screening & Cocktail Reception in Manhattan for Judges, Sponsors and Top Three Filmmakers.

July/August: The Top Ten Films Premiere at the Asian American International Film Festival.

The top 50 films will be showcased in Film Lab’s award-winning TV series Film Lab Presents in the fall!

Compete from anywhere in the world with WiFi!

The competition creates a valuable opportunity for filmmakers of color – focusing on Asian American filmmakers – and women, as well as other underrepresented groups, to demonstrate their talent, gain exposure in the entertainment industry and impact the visibility of diverse stories and characters in film. One of the Shootout requirements is that at least one key production member (e.g., director, producer or writer) and a principal actor from each team must be of Asian descent.

Past Judges include hip hop icon Russell Simmons, producer Teddy Zee, ABC Primetime Casting Director Marci Phillips and playwright David Henry Hwang, among many others. 

Join us and smash some glass ceilings!  

Email Shootout@film-lab.org for more info.

• Stay posted via our homepage, Facebook, Instagram, and X. LIKE us at Facebook.com/72HrShootout for up-to-the-moment news and updates!
• Check out our 72 Hour Shootout Gallery
• Read about us in The Huffington Post and Backstage Magazine

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