Are you up for the challenge?
The CMAC 72-Hour Film Race is a creative challenge open to everyone in the Fresno area. Participants will have to think on their feet to produce a short film in under 72 hours. From the thrill of brainstorming under pressure to the satisfaction of seeing your vision come to life on screen, the Film Race is an adrenaline rush like no other. It’s more than just a competition, it’s a chance to push your creative limits and collaborate with like-minded creators. Whether you’re a budding filmmaker or a seasoned pro, this is a platform to showcase your skills. Get ready for 72 hours of pure filmmaking frenzy!
This year, there’s a slight twist.
What do the movies Tangerine, Unsane, and 28 Years Later all have in common? They were all filmed on a phone, and this year we’re doing just that. For the 2025 Film Race, all content must be shot using a mobile device. Whether it’s an iPhone, a Samsung, or a flip phone, it must be completely shot using the phone’s camera.
How it works
- Sign Up
Register by July 31, 2025, to participate. - Kickoff
The race starts at Noon on Friday, August 1st at CMAC. A member of each team must be present to pick up their packet, which includes your film’s title and a theme, action, or prop that must be incorporated. We suggest arriving 15-30 minutes early. - The Race
Teams will race against the clock to script, shoot, and edit a 3 to 5-minute film over the next 72 hours. - Deadline
Films must be submitted online via Dropbox or in person at CMAC by Noon on Monday, August 4th, to qualify for judging. - Judging
Films will be evaluated for creativity and technical skill, not how fast they are completed. - Screening
All films will be screened on Friday, August 22nd, at Maya Cinemas, where prize winners will be announced.
Support
Want to support this and future Film Races? Donate today and be a part of a community that uplifts stories from local filmmakers!
General information:
Ben Cruz
Production Specialist
Ben@cmac.tv
Front Desk
559.266.2622
Info@cmac.tv
Marketing information:
Maricela Hernandez
Outreach & Development Coordinator
maricela@cmac.tv
Awards & Recognition
Our 72-Hour Film Race honors the hard work and imagination that go into making a film in just three days. We offer multiple awards to recognize standout projects across different categories, including a special Youth Division to spotlight emerging filmmakers.
Here’s what winners can look forward to:
GOLD – $800
Awarded to the top film that stands out for its creativity, technical skill, and overall impact.
SILVER – $400
Given to the runner-up film that showcases exceptional storytelling and strong execution.
BRONZE – $200
Presented to the third-place film that demonstrates a unique vision and promise.
YOUTH DIVISION – $250
Horn Photo gift card
Special recognition and award for the best film created by young filmmakers.
Timeline
FAQs
What is the CMAC Film Race?
It’s your chance to stop talking and start filming! The premise? Filmmaking teams have just 72 hours to make a short film. All writing, shooting, and editing must occur in the 72-hour window beginning Friday, August 1st, at noon. The completed films are screened to a public audience.
How much does it cost?
Free.99 (There’s no entry fee, it’s free.)
What can my film be about?
That’s up to you. Stories of all genres are welcome. However, each team will be given their film’s title and theme, action, or prop which must be incorporated. You’ll receive a packet containing your team’s special elements at Noon on August 1st at CMAC.
How long should my film be?
Films must be a minimum of 3 minutes and a maximum of 5 minutes long. This includes any opening or closing credits and team logos, but not the required CMAC Film Race 2025 title card.
How will the films be judged?
The films will be scored by a judging panel of CMAC staff and board members. The judges will use the following criteria: 40% Story (Writing, Originality, Character, and Plot Development); 20% How The Story Is Told (Directing, Editing, and Cinematography); 20% Production Value (Technical Ability Including Picture, Sound and Lighting); and 20% Acting.
How can I prepare for the race?
The ONLY work that can take place PRIOR to the kick-off at noon on August 1st is (1) the organizing of cast members and crew members; (2) the securing of equipment; (3) the scouting and securing of locations; (4) coming up with story ideas. Just keep in mind that you will need to incorporate the title and a theme, prop or action that we choose for you and provide on August 1st.
Who can participate?
The race is open to all filmmakers, pro and novice alike. All team members (crew and cast) must be volunteers. To register, you only need the name of the “team leader”. You do not need to have your complete team or cast & crew before you register.
I would like to participate but I don’t have a team. How can I join a team?
You can be a team of 1! Or ask your friends or family if they want to help. You can also join our CMAC Discord group and see if anyone is looking for team members.
Can I use CMAC equipment to make my film?
Yes, however, CMAC equipment can only be used by CMAC members. This includes any portable field equipment and editing computers. Equipment reservations will be taken on a first-come, first-serve basis. Reserve early!
Can I use footage I already shot?
No. All production and creative work relating to your film must take place ONLY during the 72-hour period. This includes, but is not limited to, script writing, shooting, editing, sound design, animation, and special effects. No work may commence until the kick-off date. Pre-recorded music and sound effects may be used as long as you have rights to said material. CMAC reserves the right to determine whether any production work has taken place at any time other than within the required time frame.
Can I use stock footage?
Stock video footage of people or other performers is not allowed. You may use stock footage if it is part of a rendered post-production effect. You may also use stock footage if it is displayed on a practical TV or monitor that is recorded in-camera.
Are animation or visual effects allowed?
Yes. However, you may not use animation created before the race begins. Using existing 3D objects is permissible, provided that you have copyright permissions. Only animation created during the 72 hour period is allowed. You may use visual effects that involve any of the allowed elements that you have rights to: still photographs, footage shot during the 72 hours, or footage rendered during the 72 hours.
Am I able to use AI?
No AI usage is allowed. Your film is subject for rejection if AI is used.
Can I use copyrighted music or materials in my film?
No. You must have permission or ownership of all music and materials in your film. CMAC reserves the right to request proof of permission.
Can I record inside CMAC’s media center?
No. Due to the number of teams involved and the short time frame, you can not record inside CMAC’s media center.
How do I deliver my completed film?
Completed films should be uploaded to CMAC’s Dropbox account (a link will be provided to all registered teams) or delivered in person at CMAC on a hard drive or flash drive by noon on Monday, August 4th.
Where and when will the films be shown?
All films submitted within the time period and meeting all the rules will be screened at a special event on Friday, August 22 at 6:30 pm, location to be announced. The films will also air on CMAC’s Public Channel at a later date.
How do the prizes work?
Prizes will be awarded in the form of a check made out to the team leader. The Youth prize will be a gift card that can be spent at Horn Photo. Taxes on prizes awarded in the contest, if any, are the sole responsibility of the winner and CMAC shall bear no liability.
Past Winners
Explore the amazing work from past Film Races and see what local filmmakers have created in just 72 hours. From laugh-out-loud comedies to powerful dramas, each winning film proves that a great story can come together in just three days with a little pressure and a lot of creativity. Get inspired by their talent and imagine what you could create when the clock starts ticking!
2024 | 72-Hour Film Race
Horn Photo sponsored our 2024 Film Race, helping elevate local filmmakers and enrich our creative community.
Moments of Truth
Team: OZM | Team Lead: Juan Herrera
GOLD
In a universe where every encounter is woven into a grand design, a commitment-averse man confronts his deepest fears when an unexpected journey forces him to choose between perpetual avoidance and embracing a love that could redefine his destiny.
This introspective yet comedic tale, which clinched first place in the 2024 72-Hour Film Race, masterfully intertwines themes of fate, friendship, and the courage to commit.
The team also took home a 2025 W.A.V.E. Award as Community Producers in the Narrative Film category.
Echoes of the Past
Team: Hume Film Group | Team Lead: Jackson Cummings
SILVER
Savanah, a young woman trying to rebuild her life in a small, tranquil mountain town, writes a heartfelt letter to her mother, revealing both her yearning for home and her cautious steps toward a new future. As she describes falling for a kind, attentive boy who reignites her hope, an internal voice rooted in past trauma and self-doubt rises up, questioning her worthiness of love and happiness. This tender yet turbulent journey exposes the fragile line between healing and relapse, showing how even in the safety of new surroundings and caring relationships, old wounds can echo loudly. Ultimately, Savanah’s words reflect a profound struggle to reconcile who she was with who she hopes to become, suggesting that while scars remain, the promise of love and self-acceptance can still grow.
The Forgotten Path
Team: The News Photog Crew | Team Lead: Marco Rosas
BRONZE
What starts as a clown running late for a birthday gig turns sinister when police reveal a body has been found nearby, and he is their prime suspect. Residents who once laughed at his jokes struggle to reconcile this new, frightening image. As tension grips the neighborhood, the clown finally shows up, still determined to bring joy to the party. But with doubt swirling, no one can be sure if they are welcoming an innocent entertainer or a dangerous killer.
The Edge of Forever
Team: Jolly Goodfellas | Team Lead: Riley Gentz
YOUTH DIVISION
A group of teens scramble to uncover the unaired ending of their favorite show, resorting to outrageous plans and chaos, only to realize they might be in over their heads—and their eyes might never be the same again.
Their team earned 1st place in the youth division, showcasing their creativity and dedication. They were also recipients of the 2025 W.A.V.E. Award.
Watch More!
Want to see even more creativity in action? Don’t stop at the winners. Check out all the films submitted during the race. Every team brought something unique to the screen, and you might just discover a hidden gem or your next favorite local filmmaker. Grab some popcorn and enjoy the full lineup!
- Whispers of Fate
- Beyond the Veil
- Hidden in Plain Sight
- Journey to Nowhere
- Secrets of the Heart
- The Last Hope
- Uncharted Waters
- In the Blink of an Eye
- The Unseen
- In the Shadows
- The Hidden Truth
- Whispers in the Wind
- The Last Stand
- Rise from the Ashes
- The Last Whisper
- The Midnight Run
- Echoes of Eternity
- The Silent Guardian
- The Great Unknown
- Beneath the Surface
- Bound by Destiny
- Silent Night
- Unspoken Words
- Under the Stars
Past Editions
Check out all the amazing past submissions in these playlists from our 72-hour Film Race in 2024, 60-hour Film Race in 2018, and 12-hour Film Race in 2017.
