Aspiring filmmakers from Owens Community College just completed the Oregon Road Film Series (ORFS) Spring 2025 Film Challenge, a thrilling test of creativity, teamwork, and endurance. The Challenge began on March 14 and wrapped on the 16; the competition gives participants just 54 hours to write, shoot, and edit a short film—a true race against the clock.
After the official kickoff at noon on Friday, March 14, filmmakers dove headfirst into their projects, working tirelessly until the 8 p.m. deadline on Sunday, March 16. Only films submitted before the cut-off will are eligible for judging, while late submissions will be considered solely for the viral voting competition.
A Challenge for All Filmmakers
The ORFS Film Challenge is open to filmmakers of all skill levels, from students to independent creators, as long as the team has a student on it. While the competition welcomes all, the number of filmmaking teams maybe limited based on arrival time at the kickoff event.
To ensure a fair competition, all creative work, including scriptwriting, rehearsals, filming, editing, sound design and visual effects occurs within the designated competition period. Pre-planning is allowed only for tasks such as securing equipment, organizing a crew and scouting locations.
Each participating team is required to incorporate three specific elements revealed at the kickoff event to ensure the film is created within the 54 hours. Films must be between three and eight minutes in length, including credits, and must adhere to content guidelines to remain eligible for judging.
Rob Thomas, an Assistant Professor of broadcasting at Owens Community College and a key figure in the Oregon Road Film Series, highlights the event’s impact on emerging filmmakers: “The Oregon Road Film Series Film Challenge provides an opportunity for new filmmakers to enter the field, discover their talents, discover what aspects of filmmaking they enjoy, and then utilize and develop those skills.”
Submission and Screening
Films must be submitted as a full-resolution QuickTime (.mov) or .mp4 file via a OneDrive link provided at kickoff. Teams must also submit signed release forms for talent, locations, and music, ensuring all legal clearances are in place.
A panel of industry professionals, critics, and independent judges will evaluate the films. The top film, as determined by the judges, will be announced at the ORFS closing event on May 1, 2025. An additional audience award will be determined by viewer votes; look for the vote after the films showings on March 26, 2025.
The Merritt Award: Celebrating Positive Impact
The Merritt Award is given to a team whose film promotes positive themes such as kindness, sustainability, and community impact. Named after former Owens Community College student Kim Merritt, the award encourages filmmakers to use their creativity for good.
To qualify, at least three team members must be studying in an eligible creative program like Broadcast Media Technology, Fine Art, Music Business Technology and/or others. The winning team will receive a cash prize.
A special judging panel will select the winner based on how well the film aligns with the award’s mission. This honor highlights the power of storytelling to inspire change and make a difference in the world.
Rules and Restrictions
Filmmakers are encouraged to be creative, but some content is not allowed. Films with graphic sexual content, hate speech, libel or illegal activities will be disqualified. Using prop weapons in public or aerial drones for filming is also prohibited. Breaking these rules will result in immediate disqualification.
Teams must follow ethical filmmaking practices and cannot use the ORFS name for personal financial gain.
An Unforgettable Experience
The ORFS Film Challenge offers more than just a test of speed and skill—it provides a unique opportunity for filmmakers to showcase their talents, collaborate with peers and see their work on the big screen. With only 54 hours to complete a film, participants must rely on teamwork, creativity and resilience to succeed.
Interested filmmakers can visit the website or follow on Instagram at @owensccorfsfilmchallenge.
As the clock ticked down from 54 hours, several teams rose to the challenge and created unforgettable short films, but who will win?
The ORFS Spring 2025 Film Challenge promised an exciting ride for all who were involved; join us to see these unforgettable short films on Wednesday, March 26 at noon in College Hall 100.
