FREQUENTLY
​ASKED QUESTIONS

Do I need to live in Los Angeles to participate?

Absolutely NOT, you do not need to live in LA to participate. The Collaboration Filmmakers Challenge was founded in Los Angeles, we are a non-profit based in Los Angeles, but filmmakers anywhere in the world can participate. With more and more production taking place outside of Los Angeles; we think all filmmakers benefit from the opportunity to network and meet filmmakers everywhere. Who knows where your next film will take you, don’t you want to know other artists already working there?

So I need to work with other people?

Yes, that is the whole “collaboration” aspect of the challenge. Film is a collaborative art form - if not the most collaborative art form - so we wanted to create a challenge which rewarded filmmakers for working with new people.  

For a film to be eligible, you need another filmmaker (or collaborator) signed up for the CFC, to work on your film. They can help you anywhere in the pre-production, production, or post-production process - you just need their help. You need to help a different filmmaker on their film. 

What if I need help finding collaborators?

We will have a kick-off event in Los Angeles where you can meet fellow participants. When you sign-up, you will also be added to our Facebook Forum and Discord Channel to continue networking and finding partners to help you make your film. Finally, if you still need help, email our coordinator at [email protected].

But I already have a crew that I use, can I still use them?

Of course - use the talented people you already know, just make sure you include some new people on your project, surely there is something they can do to help you make your film. Also be sure to register your crew members as Collaborators on the CFC registration portal.

What is the difference between a Filmmaker, and a Collaborator?

The difference is this - a filmmaker plans to make and submit a film. Collaborators just want to work with as many different filmmakers as they can. These tend to be actors, cinematographer, or editors; looking to work with new people and make films. 

Awards can only go to registered Filmmakers or Collaborators; so if you have a really talented cast or crew member, encourage them to sign-up as a collaborator so they will be eligible to win prizes in their field.

Explain this collaboration thing one more time please?

If you are a filmmaker: to be eligible to win prizes, you must submit a film and assist one other filmmaker on their film. You must also have another filmmaker, or collaborator, assist you on your film.

If you are a collaborator: You must assist at least one filmmaker on their film to be eligible for prizes and awards.
 
I have a film that's already made, can I submit it?

First things first, great work! However, we do not take submissions for existing material for the Collaboration Filmmakers Challenge. To make things equal, and to truly judge filmmakers on their creativity and originality, all films must be filmed during the two-week film challenge.

So this is like a 48-hour film challenge?

Kind of, except we have the collaboration rule. Also, where most 24 or 48 hour challenges have a bunch of goofy requirements (props, lines, or locations that need to be included); we release a quote at the beginning of the challenge. Filmmakers are tasked with using that quote, as the theme for their films. Where you take it, and what type of film you make is completely up to you and your imagination.

How do I submit the film that I produce during the challenge?

Films must be submitted by a specified deadline through our online platform.

How long is the film that I have to make?

Each film submitted needs to be between 3:00 and 6:30 minutes in length, including all titles and credits.

Are there additional requirements for the film I make?

Aside from telling us who collaborated on your film, and who you collaborated with; all films need to be submitted by the specified deadline. All films need to be completely original for the CFC and include either the CFC logo or the words “Created for the MPI Collaboration Filmmakers Challenge” in the credits.