Rapid fire film festival Kazoo 48 returns for its seventh year
Designed to introduce people to filmmaking while also challenging experienced creators, Kazoo 48 gives teams 48 hours to complete a short film between one and six minutes long. Each team must incorporate an assigned genre, line of dialogue, character, location, and prop into their film.
Once completed, the films are judged by a panel of local talent. Awards include prizes for best use of an assigned item and the festival’s signature award — a gold engraved kazoo — presented to the best films in both the amateur and professional categories.
The Kazoo 48 Hour Film Festival is returning for its seventh year, bringing what organizers call Southwest Michigan’s largest filmmaking event back to Kalamazoo.
Designed to introduce people to filmmaking while also challenging experienced creators, Kazoo 48 gives teams 48 hours to complete a short film between one and six minutes long. Each team must incorporate an assigned genre, line of dialogue, character, location, and prop into their film.
Once completed, the films are judged by a panel of local talent. Awards include prizes for best use of an assigned item and the festival’s signature award — a gold engraved kazoo — presented to the best films in both the amateur and professional categories.
Organizers say the event has continued to grow, setting new records for both team registrations and audience in attendance.
To celebrate its seventh year, Kazoo 48 has introduced a new tongue-in-cheek logo parodying the classic “007” spy branding. Stickers featuring the design will be available at the event.
Filmmakers will also have the opportunity to see their films on the big screen, receive a “swag bag,” and compete for prizes.
“Whether this is your first time making a film or your hundredth, this event is designed to encourage, challenge, and celebrate the wealth of talent right here in Michigan,” said executive director of the festival, Chad Campbell, “You’re going to be amazed at what you can do.”
The filmmaking challenge begins March 27 at 6 p.m., with submissions due March 29 at 6 p.m.
Selected films will be showcased during a screening and awards event April 23 at the GQT Kalamazoo 10 theater on Maple Hill Drive.
Teams can register at kazoo48.com.
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