South Texas International Film Festival Announces Annual 48-Hour Film Race for 2024

Staff Report

EDINBURG, Texas — The South Texas International Film Festival (STXIFF) is set to launch its 2024 48-Hour Film Race, beginning on Friday, August 30 at 6 p.m. The event invites filmmakers from Hidalgo, Starr, Willacy, and Cameron Counties to compete in a high-energy challenge to create a short film within 48 hours.

The competition will kick off at the Edinburg Municipal Auditorium. Participants will receive three unique elements—a required object, a concept, and a filmmaking technique—that must be incorporated into their films. Registration is open from August 15 to August 27, with a $25 fee per team payable at the kickoff event. Late registration will be available on-site on September 8, but spaces are limited.

Completed films and required documentation must be uploaded by 7 p.m. on Sunday, September 1. Submissions should be sent via a cloud-based storage link to [email protected], with a confirmation screenshot texted to 956-330-7542.

All films that meet the deadline will be screened during the 10th Annual STXIFF. Filmmakers are asked to refrain from making their films publicly available online until after the winners are announced. The awards ceremony will recognize top films, including the “Best 48 Hour Film” and the “Edinburg Film Friendly Award” for films shot in Edinburg. Additional awards and recognitions may also be presented.

Films must be under three minutes, including credits, and must be produced within the 48-hour timeframe. Participants must reside in the eligible counties, and all materials used must be properly licensed. The jury’s decisions are final and will be revealed during the screening and awards ceremony.

Employees and volunteers associated with STXIFF, the City of Edinburg, and the Edinburg Arts Foundation are ineligible to compete.

For more information or to register, visit www.stxiff.com or contact the STXIFF team at [email protected].

Source — Edinburg Chamber of Commerce