72 Hours Film Lab

An Intensive 3-Day Online Filmmaking Workshop

72 Hours Film Lab is an intensive, practice-driven online workshop designed for film students who want to experience the complete filmmaking process under real-world creative pressure. Over the course of three consecutive days, participants will conceptualize, produce, and finalize a short film within a strict 72-hour framework, guided by professional filmmakers and lecturers. The workshop is structured around the three core phases of filmmaking:

  • Pre-Production
  • Production
  • Post-Production

Each phase includes a 2-hour live workshop session, followed by a 24-hour hands-on execution period, during which students must complete the assigned tasks and move their project forward.

Day 1 – Pre-Production (Idea to Plan) Live Workshop (2 hours):

  • Creative ideation under time constraints
  • Developing a strong short-film concept
  • Writing a concise treatment and outline
  • Visual thinking, mood, and limitations as creative tools
  • Micro-budget and minimal-location storytelling

24-Hour Challenge:
Participants must:

  • Develop a solid film idea
  • Write a short treatment or script
  • Prepare basic pre-production materials (concept, approach, logistics)

Day 2 – Production (Execution Under Pressure) Live Workshop (2 hours):

  • Directing actors efficiently
  • Shooting with limited resources
  • Visual storytelling and camera discipline
  • Problem-solving on set
  • Working fast without losing artistic intent

24-Hour Challenge:
Participants must:

  • Shoot their short film
  • Manage production decisions independently
  • Adapt creatively to limitations and unexpected obstacles

Day 3 – Post-Production (Story in the Edit) Live Workshop (2 hours):

  • Editing for rhythm, emotion, and clarity
  • Sound design as a narrative tool
  • Basic color correction and final polish
  • Knowing when a film is “finished”

24-Hour Challenge:
Participants must:

  • Edit and finalize their short film
  • Complete sound and basic post-production
  • Export a final version ready for screening 

The workshop is led by a team of professional filmmakers and lecturers, including the program initiator, with a strong focus on:

  • Creative decision-making
  • Process over perfection
  • Learning through execution
  • Industry-oriented thinking

Rather than theoretical instruction, the workshop emphasizes applied creativity, mirroring the realities of professional filmmaking environments. 

Participants who successfully complete a finished short film within the 72-hour timeframe will receive:

  • An official Certificate of Completion (Diploma)
  • Eligibility for scholarship consideration at Arkin University of Creative Arts and Design (ARUCAD)

This opportunity connects emerging filmmakers directly to an international academic and creative environment. 

By the end of the workshop, students will have gained:

  • A full understanding of the end-to-end filmmaking process
  • The ability to develop and execute ideas under time pressure
  • Practical experience in fast-paced pre-production planning
  • Hands-on directing and shooting skills with limited resources
  • A clear understanding of storytelling through editing
  • Improved decision-making and problem-solving abilities
  • Confidence in completing projects, not abandoning them
  • A finished short film suitable for portfolios and festivals
  • Experience working within professional constraints similar to real-world productions 
  • Film and media students
  • Emerging filmmakers
  • College-level film programs
  • Students interested in hands-on, intensive creative challenges 

To submit your film please click below link.

Apply Now