Sequel, Part Cinq

This coming weekend is the San Diego incarnation of The 48 Hour Film Project, and David and I will be participating for the fifth time. The basic premise is that you have from 7 p.m. on Friday to 7 p.m. on Sunday to write, shoot, edit and complete a short film, using only volunteer resources and talent. At the kick-off, each team pulls a genre out of a hat (in order, ours have been Fantasy, Action/Adventure, Comedy and Fantasy again) and then every team is also assigned the same Character, Prop and Line of Dialogue that must be incorporated somewhere in the film.

As you might imagine, the adrenaline runs high on this sort of project--I've cried at least once during each of the previous efforts--and relationships are forged or torn asunder. Ultimately, we have crossed the finish line on time with a working disc three out of four of the years--last year, sadly, an eleventh-hour rendering issue made us late.

All the films, late or not, are screened at a San Diego theater during the following week, and those that make the deadline are also eligible for prizes, including the Audience Award, determined by ballot at the theater. Most years, I've leaned over and whispered to David, "We just lost the Audience Award" when the obvious winner finished screening; last year it wasn't so clear. Despite our tardiness, last year we were screened a second time in the "Best of San Diego" series, which was really nice.

This year, I'm excited to be working with some friends who haven't been part of our team, Cane Toad Productions, in the past (although I'm also mourning the loss of Matt Archer, our acting "mascot," and Adam Shaw, our wizard composer from last year, who are both forming their own teams this time.) My friend Robyn is flying in from Texas to join the fray, and my friend Grace--a faithful screening attendee in other years--is coming aboard. I've also recruited two former students--now married to each other--April and Hal, as writers.

I'm a little nervous, because while I have served as writer, actor, acting coach, editing assistant and craft services in past years (often all at once) this year I am tentatively scheduled to direct. It just seems a natural progression, as I am extremely bossy and end up ordering everyone around regardless. While it's true I'm not technically proficient, I do have an extensive knowledge of film, so I'm hoping that sort of counts as something akin to credentials. Most important, my dear husband is totally down with the idea (except if we draw Sci Fi--then I think he'll withdraw his support.)

If you're a local film buff, I hope you'll consider attending the screening, which will take place Saturday, August 16 at the Ultra Star Mission Valley Theater at Hazard Center at 3:00 p.m. 'Course, if we make the Best of San Diego, you'll also have the option of seeing us at 9:00 p.m.

In the mean time, check out videos of our previous films, Burnin' Love and Sir Late-a-Lot. Just type these titles into the search window, and enjoy!