Filmmaking / Directing : Why Filmapalooza? by Vincent Lowe

Okay, it's a very simple story. Every year in about 120 cities around the world, insane filmmakers set out to make a movie in just two days. It's called the 48 Hour Film Project and it's the oldest and largest time-based filmmaking competition in the world. Sometimes people who "know" say that you can't make a good film in just two days. And every year, 4 or 5 of the 30 teams on average who compete in each city prove them wrong. I've cried over 7-minute short films that have been made in this thing, I've laughed, and sometimes burst out into song along with the cast. Everything that I believe a movie might set out to achieve can be done by a sufficiently skillful artisan. This month in New Orleans, the City Producers for the event and the top filmmakers from each city will meet and get a chance to watch the award-winners from around the world. There will also be some networking, seriously heavy drinking, (I mean, it's NOLA after all,) and on one glorious night, there will be a round of the most raucous karaoke ever seen by civilized man. If you don't believe these outlandish claims, then come and see for yourself. (http://48hourfilm.com/filmapalooza) And if you can't get there on Mar 6-10th, then sign up in your city this spring or summer to compete for yourself. You'll have fun, you'll do something that you didn't think possible, and maybe you'll even thank me. (or curse me) Whatever you choose to do...keep making movies! ---v Oh yeah, and follow us on Twitter (#48hfp) We'll be sure to share.