Register Now for 48-hour Film Challenge

 Are you a film maker looking for a challenge, an opportunity to create an amazing film in just 48 hours? Here’s your chance! Form a team and sign up to create a 3 to 5 minute short film for the Putnam’s second annual 48 Hour Film Challenge.

Prizes Available in Two Categories:

• Trophy
• Showings of the film at the Last Picture House before:
  • Members Only Films
  • 35 mm Films
  • And One Rooftop Showing

• Trophy
• Showing of the film at The Last Picture House before:
  1. Members Only Films
  2. 35 mm Films
  3. And One Rooftop Showing

*Winning films will be shown preceding feature films on select Thursday nights following the contest.

How The Challenge Works

Participating teams will meet in the evening on November 20, 2026 at 4:00 pm to discuss the prompt, rules, and answer any questions. The films will be shown on the GIANT screen on November 22, 2026 at 7:00 pm, complete with concessions, a social hour, and a red carpet! Each team pays a $30 signup fee, by November 10. 2026. Films are recommended to have a 16:9 aspect ratio at 1080p or higher.

Don’t have equipment? Most smartphones have a strong enough video capability to meet the recommended specs! Just be sure to film horizontally. To edit your movie at no cost, you can use Adobe Express, CapCut, or Canva Please note that there is a 20 team limit. Teams that sign up after the maximum is reached will be placed on a waiting list. Please email museum@putnam.org to sign up. SIGN UP HERE