Our 48 Hour Film Project Journey: From Portland to the Semi-Finals
This summer, our team took on the whirlwind challenge of the 48 Hour Film Project, a filmmaking competition where teams around the world write, shoot, and edit a short film in just two days.
I’ve participated in the 48 four times now, but this was my first time leading a team while also juggling roles as Director of Photography, Editor, and Music Supervisor. It was a wild ride, and I’m incredibly proud of what we created together.
The Awards
Our film didn’t just make the deadline, it stood out. At the Portland screening, we were honored to take home:
🥇 Best Cinematography 🎥
🥇 Best Original Score 🎶
🥇 Audience Favorite 👏
🥈 Best of Portland (Runner Up)
We were also nominated for best direction, best use of prop, best wardrobe and best makeup.
These awards are a direct reflection of the dedication, creativity, and trust our small but mighty cast and crew poured into the project. There were just 10 of us and a phone.
The Opportunity
Now, the journey continues: our film has advanced to the semi-finals, where it will compete against more than 100 other teams from across the nation. Only the top 15 films will move forward to the next round of audience voting, bringing us one step closer to screening at Filmapalooza and potentially Cannes.
What’s Next
As exciting as this is, it also raises the stakes. For this round, I’ll be stepping back from wearing so many hats and opening the door for more talented collaborators to join us. Building a strong, focused team is how we’ll keep our momentum and give this film the best possible shot.
This is a volunteer-based project, but we’ll be submitting the film to other festivals after the competition, making it an opportunity to be part of something that reaches beyond Portland.
Gratitude
To everyone who came to our screenings, voted for us, or just cheered us on, thank you. Your support means everything. To my team: I’m humbled by your artistry and perseverance. We made something special, and now we get to see how far it can go.
Stay tuned for updates as we continue this journey. Cannes may be thousands of miles away, but right now it feels closer than ever.
Radical Softies – 48 Hour Film Project Team
Screenplay – Colby Wiggins
Director – Anna Krieske
Director of Photography – ION Wray
Editor – ION Wray
Music Supervisor – ION Wray
Original Score “Mater Frumenti” – Talia Rice
Additional Vocals – Jeia Scott
Cast
Jeia Scott as Lee Bronski
Talia Rice as Corn Mother
Chloe Rice as Maisy
Crew
Script Supervisor – Gabi Hague Lighting Designer – Ross Freeman Levin Prop Master & Puppeteer – Joe Fish Production Assistant & Graphic Designer – Traci Beilharz
ION WRAY MEDIA 