18th Annual 48-Hour Film Shoot Boasts Impressive Student Work

Ohio University students debuted their short film projects for the 18th Annual 48-Hour Shootout Feb. 23 in Memorial Auditorium.

Organized by MDIA Assistant Professor of Instruction Andie Walla and a team of student producers, Shootout is an annual event. With this year’s theme being Pixar, teams had 48 hours to write, film, edit, and produce a short film incorporating a Pixar prop and line of dialogue. During the premiere, seven judges critiqued each film based on their creativity, story, and theme. 

This year’s winning team was :( Productions with their short film, Praise the Roof. The film is shot as a mockumentary, following a broken-up band until its members eventually reunite. Responsible for implementing their Pixar prop (a wallet) and their line ("Who invited that kid?" from Toy Story), the team of eleven students endured long days to complete the project. 

“The difficult day is Saturday night after the film shoot,” said Collin Black, director of Praise the Roof. “We begin editing and adding effects, and we’re already tired from filming the entire day.” 

The competition offers many benefits. Students gain valuable experience in film production and become familiar with their respective roles. Efficiency and communication are critical for the duration, and team members must combine their creativity and strength to produce a film that audiences will enjoy. The 48-Hour Shootout builds a community and motivates students to put their best camera forward. 

“My favorite part about the 48-Hour Shootout was getting close to new people,” said Beth Miller, producer of Praise the Roof. “Each year I participated in different groups and left with lifelong memories in the end.” 

At the end of the weekend, students reflect on their experience with an appreciation for their hard work. It is not an easy task to create a short film in a weekend, but Ohio University students rise to the occasion every year. Eighteen teams worked hard to deliver the best short film possible.

“My team and I prepared for this weekend and worked hard until we saw the project through,” said Yussif Hilario, a member of Ohio University Animation Club.

Walla is proud to be a part of an event that allows students to express their creativity. 

“I like to see the students on Sunday at the screening, no matter how tired, proud to show their work,” she said. 

For students interested in participating in 2021’s 48-Hour Shootout, follow the Facebook page for important updates on when to sign up.

First Place: :( Productions with Praise the Roof(opens in a new window)

Second Place: Doink Inc. with Bluff.

Third Place: Ducksauce with My Roommate Zaedoch

Honorable Mentions

Ohio University Animation Club with Ratatwoille(opens in a new window)

Film Flamingos with Getting to Know You