Think you can make a movie in a single weekend? The Palm Theatre and SLO Film Festival are excited to welcome back The Reel Challenge this summer for its third edition. Join us for a weekend-long filmmaking competition where participants will have just 48 hours to turn an idea into a completed short film.

Whether you’re a filmmaker, actor, editor, content creator, student, or simply someone with a great idea and a camera, this is your chance to put your creativity to the test. You’ll have just 48 hours to write, shoot, edit, and submit an original short film from start to finish. The catch? Just before the clock starts, all registered teams will receive a surprise challenge element or prop that must be featured in their film.

Inspired by the incredible creativity happening across today’s film, digital and social landscapes, this 48-hour challenge celebrates bold ideas, quick thinking, and the art of storytelling. Whether you’re assembling a crew of friends or taking on the challenge solo, filmmakers of every experience level are welcome to participate. No fancy equipment required. No genre restrictions.