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What is the Location Challenge?

A handful of times throughout the year, SLFW will select a location in the metro St Louis and challenge filmmakers to create a short 1-2 minute short using the location. Filmmakers will submit their entry (dates will be provided) to the Location Challenge. Entries will be viewed and judge (audience voting) at the following Meetup. Winning submission receives $500.

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FALL CHALLENGE

Location:

Carondelet Park Boathouse

Submissions deadline:

September 5, 2025

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Judging

During the September SFLW Meetup, date TBD

Short video highlight the Boathouse and the surrounding area.

Click to view playlist of May submissions.

Special congratulation to winner Audra Angelique, for 'The Overlook at Rootwad Park.

What Do I create?

It’s up to you. It could be a music video, a scene from a screenplay you’re working on, a ‘meet cute’ from a RomCom, Sci-fi, coming-of-age slice of life, a mockumentary of the location, a visual gag or pun. 

 

This is a chance to experiment, be creative, push boundaries. Be original. Our advice is to move past your first and second ideas. It's often said, the third idea is where the originality begins.

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Avoid concepts that involve violence, fights and weapons. Video production the involves 'firearms' (even non-operating or toys) must contact the St. Louis City Police department. This tragic reddit post is about a low budget film that didn't notify police. Do not risk a misunderstanding.

   

Do I need to rent cameras, equipment?

No. SLFW encourages filmmakers to use the equipment they have even if it’s just an iPhone. The focus is for filmmakers to be inspired, problem-solving and flex their storytelling muscle. Don’t stress over setting up lights, boom mics, etc. Focus on the fundamentals. Entries will be judged more on originality, camera work, editing (thoughtfulness) than production (but don’t ignore the craft, sound is important.) 

 

Judging:

Entries will be playing at the meetup. Attendees can cast a vote for their favorite entry. It’s that simple.

 

Submission Guidelines:

 

Send an email with a download link to slfwgrants@gmail.com

Video format:  MP4

Length: approx. 1 -2 min.

Include:

  • Title

  • Credits (actors, music, crew)

  • Equipment used (iphone, Canon)

  • Date and Time of production

  • Link to other work/website, etc.

 

Submissions will be used in SLFW social media, posted to SLFW Youtube Channel and smugmug.com by the St. Louis Film Office.

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