New Zealand’s most thrilling filmmaking competition - Vista Foundation 48Hours – is happening this coming weekend, where creativity meets the clock in the ultimate test of talent and teamwork.

There will be moments of pure ecstasy, absolute exhaustion, extreme bonding and meltdowns in what is NZ’s largest guerrilla film-making competition, aiming to make the best short film in just 48 hours.

Filmmakers from all over NZ don’t know what genre they will be shooting until the start of the competition.

All writing, shooting, editing and adding a musical soundtrack must occur within the 48-hour window beginning Friday, May 17, at 7pm and ending Sunday, May 19, at 7pm.

To add to the mayhem, they must also include some random elements.

The Vista Foundation 48Hours is a cornerstone of the New Zealand film industry, running for 21 years and offering an exhilarating platform for both emerging and established filmmakers.

The annual competition is NZ’s largest guerrilla filmmaking event.

Each year there’s been equipment/rental facilities selling out, actors suddenly cancelling commercials, celebrity friends being abused, broken bones, relationships ending, moments of pure ecstasy, absolute exhaustion, extreme bonding, annoyed neighbours, production gear disappearing, cars stolen, meltdowns and the most immense fun.

It has attracted hundreds of teams from around NZ, including solo, duo, and school teams. More than 6000 short films have been produced over the 20 years.

Great Lake Film Society filming their 48Hours entry ‘R.A.W.W.’ in 2021. Photo: Supplied.

Filmmakers are recognised with awards and vie for the prestigious title of Grand National Champion.

The very best films from across the country are judged by a panel of national and international judges and the competition culminates in a spectacular Grand Finals event, which for the first time will be held at the Embassy Theatre in Wellington on July 27.

Sir Peter Jackson will be personally selecting three wild card films to make it into the Grand Finals.

The Vista Foundation 48Hours is presented by The Vista Foundation, in association with Te Tuma Whakaata Taonga / New Zealand Film Commission.

“We are grateful for the support of these industry giants and many other generous sponsors,” says a Vista Foundation 48Hours spokesperson.

“Their backing underscores the significance of 48Hours in the landscape of New Zealand filmmaking and sets many filmmakers on a path to success in the industry.”

Fletcher Oxford and Larissa Allen in a zombie-themed 48Hours entry for Eddie Paige Productions, filmed in Parkvale, Tauranga. Photo: Supplied.

There are thousands of dollars worth of prizes up for grabs for teams as well as a solo/duo award.

This year OPPO has again partnered with the Vista Foundation 48Hours to bring the OPPO48 Award to showcase mobile phone filmmaking in NZ, with an impressive top prize of $5000.

Finalists for this will be announced on May 21, with the winner announced at the Grand Final.

Bay of Plenty City Manager Tom Paton says registrations close at midnight on Wednesday, May 15.

“There are 16 teams registered so far for the Bay of Plenty,” says Tom, who has been the city manager for Gisborne for the last ten years. This year is his first time also covering the Bay of Plenty.

“It’s all about having fun during the weekend. It’s about getting people together and doing what you can, but if you’re not having fun you’re not doing it well.”

Tom says it’s best not to go into the competition thinking you’re going to win or even trying to win.

“Just go in it trying to make the best film you can,” says Tom. “And have fun.”

Heats are being held in each region, with the Bay of Plenty City Finals to be held at 7pm, Friday, June 14, at United Cinemas Bayfair, Mount Maunganui.