The Asian American Film Lab (AAFilmLab), in association with Asian CineVision, is pleased to announce the 6th Annual 72 Hour Film Shootout taking place this year from June 26-29, 2009. The Shootout is a nationwide competition where filmmaking teams have 72 hours to complete short films up to five minutes in length. Teams are given a common theme at the start of the competition to use creatively as they see fit. Teams compete for cash and prizes and the chance to have their films screened at film festivals.

This year’s Shootout finalists will be selected by a panel film industry professionals including cinematographer Ellen Kuras (Be Kind, Rewind, Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind), director Michael Kang (The Motel, West 32nd), Marci Phillips (Executive Director of Primetime Casting for ABC Entertainment), producer Mynette Louie (Children of Invention), actor Justin Chon (Twilight), filmmaker Kazuhiro Soda (Campaign, Mental), and Tanuj Chopra (Punching at the Sun).

The Shootout intends to create opportunities for Asian Americans to demonstrate their talent, gain exposure in the entertainment industry, and to have an impact on the visibility of Asian American stories and characters in film and television. One of the Shootout requirements is that at least one key production member (e.g., director, producer, or writer) and a principal actor from each team must be of Asian descent. New for this year is a special judging category for student filmmakers. Register here.

6th Annual 72 Hour Film Shootout Promo