Claustrophobic Creativity

Sometimes simple is simply... better. Following in the footsteps of classic one-room Hollywood movies such as 12 Angry Men, Rear Window, and Rope, teams in this competition are tasked with producing a 2 to 4 minute film that is completely shot in one room. Over the course of the 10-week pre-production period participating teams will be responsible for every aspect of creating a short narrative film: ideation, script writing, location scouting, casting, shoot schedules, and more. This preparation is designed to put teams in the best possible position to successfully shoot and edit their film in New York City over the course of 2 days.

Of course, we’ll make things interesting by adding a few surprise requirements that further challenge teams to be at their creative best!

The Process:

  • Teams must register before Saturday, September 28th.

  • All teams are required to have an adult team leader/mentor.

  • Team Leaders will be responsible for communicating with AAHSFF staff.

  • Maximum number of team members: 10 (Does not include adult mentors, teachers, etc.)

  • Entry fees are $250 for teams with 5 or fewer members, and $500 for teams with 6 or more members.

  • We are once again offering comprehensive submission critiques as an option for your Film Invitational participation. Each critique is prepared by AAHSFF Co-Founder and Executive Director, Tom Oliva, and offers in-depth analysis of the elements utilized in your production and how well they helped communicate your story concept to ultimately deliver an emotional impact. All critiques will be delivered by Mid-November. The cost for each official critique is $200.

  • The competition begins on Monday, August 12th when teams receive the Official Welcome Packet and begin pre-production.

  • Teams have 10 weeks to produce their final submission.

  • All submissions are due by Friday, October 18th, 2024 at 4:00PM EST!

  • All teams will have the opportunity to utilize an editing station at the Official FI HQ located at the Sheraton Times Square Hotel.

  • Teams are responsible for providing their own film and editing equipment.

  • All competition submissions will screen at the AMC Theaters in Times Square on Sunday, October 20th.

  • Films will be judged and nominees and winners will be announced live at the 2024 Teen Indie Awards on Sunday, October 20th, 2024 .

  • All Films will be available on our YouTube page following the announcement of the winners.

*Prize Package Valued at $500 for the Winning Team!*

*Festival Passes Sold Separately*

*Special All-Access Pass Discounts Available for FI Participants*

*If your school/organization requires you to pay by PO or check, please email festival director, Tom Oliva, who will assist with the necessary registration process and invoice for payment.*

2023 Claustrophobic Creativity Winning Film

Bathroom Confessional - Applause NY - 2023 Film Invitational Claustrophobic Creativity Winner