The average production timeline for a big budget film is two to three years. Sure, those films are full length. They usually have lots of moving parts and most of us can’t even begin to imagine all the tiny details that go into them before we see them on the big screen. And that timespan, of course, doesn’t even include the time it takes to write the script, cast the parts, figure out the locations . . . 

So it’s more than a little impressive that a handful of teams made up of TLU students and friends get together every year to create short films in a mere 49 hours. Here’s how it works: The teams gather on a Friday evening. They are given a genre, a prop, a character, and a line of dialogue. All of these things must be artfully woven into a short film—which is written, cast, filmed, and edited—and turned in 49 hours later. We’re describing the 49 Hour Film Festival, and it’s TLU’s own version of the international 48 Hour Film Project, which takes place in more than 100 different cities across the globe each year.

The TLU event culminates in the 49 Hour Film Festival Showcase, where the films are screened for an audience and the winners are announced. “This year we have four teams competing, led by Angelise Plata, Erik Johnson, Ryder Thompson, and Isa Jennings,” said TLU Professor of Dramatic Media Shannon Ivey. “The teams are made up of current TLU students, alumni, and community members.” 

TLU sophomore Angelise Plata, a Dramatic Media major, got together with two classmates and pulled in local high school and middle school theater students, along with Plata’s mother and brother, both of whom teach at A.J. Briesemeister Middle School, where Plata herself also volunteers. “Together, we led an incredible group of students who brought so much talent and energy to the project,” she said. “Working with kids can take a little more time and patience than working with adults, but it was absolutely worth it. The experience gave me real, hands-on insight into what it takes to bring a film project together while also giving these young actors a platform to learn, perform, and shine. For both myself and the students, it was not only educational but also inspiring—a true example of how film can build community while creating art.”

Ivey said teams pull from a wide variety of genres, “everything from comedy, drama, romance, and westerns to more challenging categories like mockumentary, musical, or science fiction. The random draw forces students out of their comfort zones and sparks some of the most inventive storytelling.”

Plata explained that each team spun a randomizer with dozens of options on Friday evening. “Every group was given two spins and could choose to use either genre—or even combine both—depending on their creative vision.” 

This year’s showcase, as a result, will include drama, horror, sci-fi- and western. 

“Overall, I had such an incredible time filming this year,” Plata said. “My group was truly a joy to work with, and watching the spark in these young students’ eyes as they were introduced to TLU Dramatic Media and the art of film was inspiring.” She added that the Seguin community was great as well—cheering the group on and stopping to see what they were up to as they filmed on location around town. “The value of creating a film in such a short amount of time is tremendous. The process challenges everyone to come together, work quickly, and rely on collaboration, which really strengthens the bond within the group.”

Ivey agrees. “The festival teaches students resilience, teamwork, and resourcefulness. In just two days, they move through the entire production cycle—from brainstorming to final cut. This kind of high-pressure, hands-on experience is invaluable, preparing students not only for careers in the creative industries but for any fast-paced field that demands collaboration and problem-solving.”

Some of TLU’s teams through the years have gone on to compete in the regional 48 Hour Film Festival events, where they’ve gone up against much larger universities. “And they’ve not only held their own but actually won awards, even beating out UT Austin teams,” said Ivey. UT has one of the finest film schools in the nation, so that’s no small feat. “It’s a testament to the creativity and determination of our students.” 

The 49 Hour Film Festival Showcase takes place in the Studio Theatre inside TLU’s Weston Fine Arts Center at 7 p.m.  on Friday, September 26. There’s no charge for admission and all are welcome to attend. Viewer discretion is advised. “While the films are student-made and not graphic, some projects do explore mature themes,” Ivey explained. 

Plata says the audience can expect a fun and exciting evening. “We’ve all worked so hard, and it’s such a rewarding experience to see our films come to life on-screen and watch how the audience reacts.”

“The 49-Hour Film Festival has become one of the signature experiences of TLU’s Dramatic Media Department,” said Ivey. “It combines artistry, storytelling, and the kind of ‘learn by doing’ ethos that prepares our students for life after graduation. We’re proud that it’s not just a festival, but a launchpad for student confidence and professional opportunities.”

For more details and to view the entire TLU Dramatic Media season, click here: https://www.tludramaticmedia.com/season.html.