72 Hour Shootout

The 72 Hour Shootout is a high-profile, global short film competition that challenges filmmaking teams to write, shoot, edit, and produce a short film of up to five minutes in length within just 72 hours. All films are created around a common theme, revealed at the start of the competition, and compete for mentorship opportunities and prizes. Each submission must feature at least one key crew member (director, producer, writer, director of photography, or editor) and one lead actor of Asian descent. A lead actor is defined as a character who drives the story.

Open to filmmakers of all races, religions, and nationalities, the Shootout encourages diverse casting and crewing whenever possible.

The theme for the 2025 competition will be announced on June 5th at 8 PM EST, with films due by June 8th at 8 PM EST. The competition will conclude with a theatrical screening of the top ten finalists, an awards ceremony, and a celebratory wrap party (details to be announced).

Now entering its 21st year, the 2025 Shootout marks the competition’s debut under its new banner: The 72 Hour Film Network.

Think you’ve got what it takes? Register now at 72hourfilmnetwork.com and join filmmakers for an unforgettable creative journey.