#ShortFilms
#ProfessionalFilmmaking
#VerticalFilms
#MobileFilmmaking
#AIFilmmaking
Challenge begins in
2,65,542 Filmmakers from 44 Countries in the last 15 years ✦
Last date to register is Septemper 3, 2026, at 11:59PM ✦
50 HOUR
CHALLENGE
BEGINS
September 4th,
2026 | 8 PM
50 HOUR
CHALLENGE
ENDS
September 6th,
2026 | 10 PM
TOP
NOMINEES
ANNOUNCEMENT
October 10th,
2026
AWARDS
CEREMONY
AT IFP FEST
October 24th-25th, 2026
For filmmakers with prior experience in professional or commissioned projects.
For aspiring storytellers, open to experimenting with camera (DSLR, etc) as they hone their craft.
For filmmakers, who believe even a mobile phone camera can create wonders.
For filmmakers exploring vertical storytelling, using any device that suits their vision.
For creators from across the world to conceive, produce, and deliver a short film using generative AI.(This is an invite only category, please refer to rules to know more)
For filmmakers with prior experience in professional or commissioned projects.
~$40 / ~Є35
For aspiring storytellers, open to experimenting with camera (DSLR, etc) as they hone their craft.
~$30 / ~Є25
For filmmakers, who believe even a mobile phone camera can create wonders.
~$20 / ~Є15
For exploring vertical storytelling, using any device that suits their vision.
~$20 / ~Є15
For creators from across the world to conceive, produce, and deliver a short film using generative AI.
(This is an invite only category, please refer to rules to know more)
Raam
Reddy
Karthik
Subbaraj
Anusha
Rizvi
For Platinum, Gold, Silver & Bronze (Top 4) films across each of the 3 categories
Winning films from each category get showcased at the IFP Festival Season 16
Legacy lifetime free entry to IFP 50 Hour Filmmaking Challenge
Nominees will receive a FREE buddy pass (3+1 people) to attend the IFP Festival
For Platinum, Gold, Silver & Bronze (Top 4) films across each of the 5 categories
Winning films from each category get showcased at the IFP Festival Season 16
Legacy lifetime free entry to IFP 50 Hour Filmmaking Challenge
Nominees will receive a FREE buddy pass (3+1 people) to attend the IFP Festival
50 HOURS IS ALL IT TAKES ✦ DO YOU HAVE WHAT IT TAKES? ✦
THOUSANDS HAVE DONE IT ✦ MILLIONS HAVEN'T ✦ WHICH ONE ARE YOU? ✦
Exclusive online workshop for participants with an industry expert before the challenge
All participants receives subscriptions to our partner softwares post the festival
Get discounted festival season pass for IFP Season 16 festival
Exclusive online workshop for participants with an industry expert before the challenge
All participants receives subscriptions to our partner softwares post the festival
Get discounted festival season pass for IFP Season 16 festival
“There is a reason it’s called the World’s largest filmmaking challenge. You have to compete to know it”
Mumbai, India
“I found the most beautifully rewarding moments amidst the chaos. A thrill to be surrounded by like-minded, creative individuals indeed.”
Surat, India
“This challenge reassured me that the best ideas come under pressure, and the results can be incredibly rewarding.”
Kolkata, India
“Made me embrace and love the chaos! Rolling with the punches and staying adaptable turned our frantic scrambles into a surprisingly great film.”
Tartu, Estonia
“What a rewarding experience! It was nerve-wrecking but fun first-timer at making a movie from start to finish in 2 days.”
Cambridge, United Kingdom
“The last 50 hours throbbed with excitement and challenge. Brought out so much understanding of ourselves, filmmaking in general and what it means for us.”
Tartu, Estonia
“The hours ran by but left such a vibrant, memorable impact.”
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
“Exhilarating, exhausting and epic!”
Leipzig, Germany
“This challenge reiterated that we have a lot of creativity within us, if we just plunge in and explore!”
WORLD'S LEADING FEST FOR EVERYTHING CREATIVE X CULTURE ✦
Films & Streaming ✦ Digital ✦ Music ✦ Literature & Writing ✦ Storytelling ✦ Photography ✦ Design & Art ✦ Performing Arts ✦ Audio & Podcasting ✦ Advertising ✦ Comedy ✦ Technology ✦ Gaming ✦ Culture ✦
IFP 50 Hour Filmmaking Challenge – Rules
General
Category Specific Rules:
2. Amateur Category
3. Mobile Category
4. Vertical Category
5. AI Category
Tech
Submission
Evaluation
Evaluation criteria for all the submitted films will include Story/Narrative flow, Performances, Visual Composition/Cinematography, Editing and Adherence to category and inclusion of compulsory elements.
Disclaimer
IFP 50 Hour Filmmaking Challenge – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
GENERAL
Q: I am not from India. Can I participate?
A: Absolutely! IFP welcomes entries from filmmakers around the globe.
Q: Is there a registration fee?
A: Yes, there is a registration fee for each team: Rs. 3500 (USD 42) for the Professional Category, Rs. 2500 (USD 30) for the Amateur Category, Rs. 1500 (USD 18) for the Vertical Category, and Rs. 1500 (USD 18) for the Mobile Category. Fees are paid online to confirm participation. You will receive your Creator ID via email upon confirmation. The AI Category is invite-only – refer to the AI Category section below.
Q: What is the Creator’s Agreement?
A: The Creator’s Agreement is a legally binding document that each Team Leader must sign. It protects both your rights as a creator and IFP’s rights as a platform. The agreement will be provided to the Team Leader via email at the beginning of the challenge, along with the theme. Teams that do not submit the agreement will be disqualified. Visit the sample agreement here: Sample Agreement
Q: Can my film have no dialogues?
A: Yes, your film can be entirely without dialogue, relying on music and visuals. Be sure to convey the mood and narrative through your English subtitles.
Q: Can I participate in multiple IFP challenges?
A: Yes, you can participate in other IFP challenges using the same email ID. However, each challenge requires a separate registration fee and will have a separate Creator ID.
Q: What happens to my film after the challenge?
A: You retain the rights to your film and can use it in various ways. However, you must include the credit “This film was made for IFP Season 16” in both the title and end credits. Further details are provided in the Team Leader’s agreement.
Q: Can I sponsor this challenge?
A: Yes! Please contact us at ritam@ifp.world for sponsorship opportunities.
Q: Is this an online challenge, or do I need to be in Mumbai?
A: This is a completely online challenge. You can participate and submit your film from anywhere, using the upload link shared with the team leader.
Q: What happens after I submit my work?
A: If your film is nominated, you will receive an email notification along with the further steps that you would need to follow.
Q: Are team members paid for their participation?
A: No. All team members must be volunteers, participating without receiving payment for their services. This ensures the spirit of the challenge remains focused on creativity and collaboration.
Q: Can I get a refund after confirming participation?
A: No. Once participation is confirmed, refunds will not be issued.
TECH
Q: What is the evaluation criteria?
A: Films are evaluated on the basis of Story/Narrative flow, Performances, Visual Composition/Cinematography, Editing, and Adherence to category and inclusion of compulsory elements.
Q: Should my story revolve around the compulsory element?
A: No, the compulsory element should be incorporated into your film but does not need to be the central focus. It can be subtly integrated, like a prop or background detail.
Q: Can I edit my film on mobile?
A: No, your film must be edited on a laptop or desktop computer.
Q: Are special effects allowed?
A: Yes, special effects are permitted, but you cannot use stock footage. You can use built-in plugins and effects from your editing software.
Q: What is the required film duration?
A: Professional, Amateur, and Mobile categories: 4–6 minutes (excluding end credits). Vertical category: 1–2 minutes (excluding end credits). AI category: 60-150 seconds (excluding end credits). End credits may be up to 60 seconds in addition to these durations.
Q: Do end credits count towards the film’s maximum length?
A: No, end credits are not included in the film’s duration. They can be a maximum of 60 seconds.
Q: Can I modify my film after the challenge?
A: Yes, you can modify your film after the award ceremony, but you must retain the credit: “This film was made for IFP Season 16” in the end credits.
Q: How can I upload my film faster?
A: Rendering your film at 1080p and keeping the file size below 2 GB will help with faster uploads.
Q: What can be the team size?
A: Teams can have a minimum of 1 and a maximum of 20 members, excluding actors. Each registered team member will receive an e-certificate.
Q: Is any footage allowed in the end credits?
A: Yes, you can include footage in the end credits, but the main narrative of your film must conclude before the credits begin.
Q: Can I use stock photos?
A: You can use stock photos only if you own the rights to them.
Q: Is animation allowed?
A: No, animation of any kind is not allowed in the films.
Q: Can we include title animation or our company logo?
A: Yes, you can include title animations or your company logo, but they must be on screen for less than 10 seconds.
Q: What are the technical specifications for the film?
A: The final video must be in MP4, MOV, or MPEG-4 format at 1080p resolution, strictly below 2 GB. Aspect ratio should be 16:9 for Professional, Amateur, and Mobile categories, and 9:16 for the Vertical category. Sound must be stereo ONLY. Files must be named using your Creator ID (e.g. TA2140.mp4 for the film, TA2140.srt for the subtitle).
Q: What is the required title slate order?
A: Your film must follow this order: IFP Title Slate (provided at the start of the challenge) → 1 second of blank → 3 seconds of black slate with film name → your film. Opening titles count towards the total film duration.
Q: What language can my film be in? Are subtitles required?
A: Your film can be in any language. English subtitles are mandatory for all films. Subtitles must be submitted as a separate, properly formatted SRT file. You can use tools like aegisub.org, Dubverse.ai, veed.io, maestra.ai, or descript.com to create them.
Q: Can I use music in my film?
A: Yes. Teams are encouraged to collaborate with local composers for original music. You may also use pre-recorded music if you have the necessary rights, or royalty-free music. If using copyrighted music, usage is limited to a maximum of 15 seconds, and the composer and music link must be credited in the end credits.
Q: I’m participating from outside India. What time zone should I follow?
A: The official time for the challenge is Indian Standard Time (IST) / GMT +5:30.
Q: I’m having trouble finding team members. Can IFP help?
A: IFP will be creating various opportunities in the form of networking events, Instagram campaigns, and more. Keep an eye on our Instagram page to know more.
Q: Do I need a location release to shoot on public property?
A: A location release is only required for privately owned property. However, we strongly recommend obtaining necessary permits for shooting on public property. The IFP team will not be liable for any such permissions or claims.
Q: Where do I upload my film?
A: The upload link will be sent to the Team Leader at the beginning of the challenge, along with the theme.
Q: Can I use my mobile phone to upload my film?
A: While technically possible, we highly recommend using a laptop or desktop computer with a stable, high-speed internet connection for uploading. Mobile connections can be unreliable and cause delays.
Q: What happens if I miss the 50-hour deadline?
A: Teams are ideally expected to keep 48 hours for filmmaking and 2 hours for upload. For genuine technical difficulties, a 4-hour extension is available. However, late submissions will face score deductions: 0–1 hour late: 5%; 1–2 hours late: 7.5%; 2–4 hours late: 10%.
CATEGORIES
Q: What categories are available?
A: There are five categories: Professional, Amateur, Mobile, Vertical, and AI. The AI Category is invite-only, interested teams must express interest via the registration form at this link.
Q: Can experienced filmmakers participate in the Mobile or Vertical category?
A: Yes. The Mobile and Vertical categories are defined by the device/format used, not experience level. Even seasoned professionals are welcome, as long as they film on a mobile device (Mobile category) or shoot in vertical format (Vertical category).
Q: What is the AI Category?
A: The AI Category is an invite-only category for teams using AI-assisted filmmaking tools. Interested teams can express interest via the registration form at this link. Shortlisted teams will be notified by August 15th, 2026. Full AI Category rules – including permitted tools, disclosure requirements, authorship guidelines, and evaluation criteria are published at ifp.world/50hour-film/rules-ai/.
EVALUATION
Q: Is the judging process transparent?
A: IFP is committed to a fair and transparent judging process. The IFP team also reviews the films to ensure no biases or errors occur. We do not accept paid awards to maintain the integrity of the competition.
Q: How are so many films judged?
A: Each film will be judged by an eminent jury with extensive industry experience who gives their scores to all the artworks submitted, as per the evaluation criteria.
What is the festival all about?
IFP is a multi-staged creativity & culture festival that happens across two days with more than 180+ prominent creators from Films & OTT, Digital, Literature & Writing, Music, Design & Art, Storytelling, Audio & Podcasting, Photography, Tech & Gaming, Comedy, Culture, Advertising and Performing arts who will participate in various Conversations, Panels, Workshops, Masterclasses, Live Performances, and AMAs.
Are there any hidden charges?
No, only GST will be levied on the tickets as per the government’s rules and regulations.
When and where is the festival happening?
The festival is scheduled to take place on-ground in Mumbai on December 6th & 7th, 2025.
Is the festival accessible for People of Determination?
Yes, IFP is an all-inclusive and accessible festival. We will be tying up with an accessibility management agency to ensure the same.
Can I attend all the sessions?
Yes, you will have access to all the sessions taking place across all 2 days. However Stage entry and seating will be on a first come first serve basis.
Where can I buy tickets?
The tickets are available on all the major Ticketing Platforms and on IFP’s Website. Click here to buy the tickets.
Will there be an award ceremony for the challenges?
Yes, the winners of all the challenges of IFP will be awarded during the festival. Kindly check the schedule regarding the same.
What will be the timings of the festival?
The first session on October 12 & 13, 2024 (i.e. Saturday and Sunday) will start at 10am and the last session will end at 9pm.
I’m a member of the media? How do I make arrangements for a media pass?
You can fill-up the form with relevant details and request for media invite.
Wow, there are lots of artists taking sessions! Will I get to personally interact with them?
There is no guarantee, however, you could plan for the questions you would want to ask in the event and if you are lucky, you will get an opportunity to ask them.
Will there be food at the venue?
Yes, there will be a food zone at the festival.
Will there be parking at the venue?
No, there will be no parking available at the venue.
Is there any age limit/rule?
No. The festival is open to all ages.
How do I become a Sponsor?
Please mail us at ritam@ifp.world
What is your ticket policy?
Tickets are purchased online through our (platform) and on-ground on festival days. Tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable.
What are some of the general measures that ensure safety in all forms at the festival?
Harassment, abuse , stalking, threatening or defaming/ violating any rights (right to privacy and publicity) is not allowed and will be taken seriously. Attendees are not allowed to carry any harmful substances, weapons or arms of any kind.
