DVMISSION 48-Hour Film Challenge is celebrating its 20th anniversary, marking two decades of fast-paced, creative filmmaking. Founded by Jinx Prowse and Roy Hanney in 2005, the competition has since then challenged aspiring filmmakers to write, shoot, and edit a two-minute film in just 48 hours.
Each year, participants are given a fresh set of “obstructions”—a genre, title, and line of dialogue that must be incorporated—leading to a night of unpredictable and exciting films showcased at the festival’s screening and awards ceremony.
Reflecting on the MISSION’s origins, Jinx Prowse comments
“We started DVMISSION as a one off, just for a bit of fun. We wanted to challenge ourselves, to see if making a film in under 48 hours was even possible. It is a pleasant surprise that 20 years and 1000’s of filmmakers later, the MISSION is still running and the excitement is still palpable.”
For the past 10 years, Roy Hanney has been at the helm of DVMISSION, growing its reputation as a must-attend event for emerging filmmakers. Now, after its 20th edition, Roy is passing the baton to City Eye, furthering its dedicated support for filmmakers and creative media in the region. Marking this moment Roy explained that
“After twenty years of mayhem, creativity, and cinematic chaos, it feels like the right time to pass DVMISSION on to new custodians. City Eye has been part of the challenge’s story for many years, nurturing filmmakers and championing creative talent across the region. I couldn’t think of a better home for its next chapter. DVMISSION has always been about community — about saying yes to creativity, no matter your experience — and I know City Eye will keep that wild, DIY spirit alive.”
Susan Beckett, Executive Director of City Eye, expressed excitement about taking on the challenge “City Eye has been connected with DVMISSION since its very early days. Sometimes supporting or submitting a team, or loaning equipment to another. Personally I have been a judge and a wrangler of judges, helped front of house and supported a number of teams entering the MISSION. I am very proud that City Eye, is now taking over the mantle from Roy and Jinx and look forward to being its custodian, protecting and developing it through its next chapter.”
Jinx Prowse added “I am excited to see the hand over of DVMISSION to City Eye. I know our legacy is in good hands.”
City Eye’s Head of Production, Aaron West, made his first steps into the industry with the challenge 11 years ago thanks to Rob Hind, his media teacher at St Vincent College and team captain of Truth at 88MPH which claims to be the oldest DVM group, having entered a film every year since its inception.
Aaron has also entered a number of times with City Eye, assisting participants from City Eye’s monthly Film Network and youth training activities, including alumni of the City Eye BFI Film Academy Short Course.
“DVMISSION is a great foundation for film training. Its pressure-cooker nature of a 48hr turn around forces quick thinking and sharpens your instincts. Plus, it’s tremendous fun! In the space of a weekend you learn what it takes to be a writer, director, cinematographer, actor & editor, often taking on more than 1 role (or 3!) just to finish on time. There is no better way to hone your craft as a filmmaker.”
DVMISSION has been described as “the Sex Pistols meets the Oscars!” and the rock-n-roll filmmaking event of the year. Anyone can take part; it doesn’t matter if you have any experience or not and you don’t need expensive equipment. Many participants have no experience of filmmaking apart from their time on DVMISSION.
What makes the event extra special is the Screening and Awards Ceremony that follows the mission weekend. This year’s event took place at the Wedgewood Rooms in Portsmouth and as a result of the anniversary year obstructions, celebrated the bonkers beauty of Carry On films.
With a new chapter ahead, City Eye aims to continue the legacy of DVMISSION, providing an exciting platform for filmmakers to push their creativity.
Under City Eye’s stewardship DVMISSION 26 will take place from 5pm on Friday 27 February concluding at 5pm on Sunday 1 March, with its Screening and Awards Ceremony returning to Portsmouth’s The Wedgewood Rooms on Saturday 7 March.
The MISSION is now open on FilmFreeway where teams are able to sign up to take part.
Numbers are limited, however, so get registered without delay and stand-by for your obstructions!
Find us at dvmission.co.uk & city-eye.co.uk
