A bar of soap, a swingset and a single line of dialogue are all that Kansas State students are invited to create a short film with — and they only have 48 hours to make it happen.

Students gathered at Hale Library last Friday night for the kickoff to the K-State 48-Hour Film Challenge. Once teams received the three required elements for their film, the countdown began.

However, this annual event requires more than just creating a film; it is a test of creativity, teamwork and working under pressure.

Tyler Traxson, a committee member who has been involved since 2018, enjoys getting to see the process unravel as students’ creativity breaks through. 

“There’s a lot going on, a lot to think about … it’s fun seeing those different groups compete and submit the different films that they’re putting together,” Traxson said. “I’m always looking forward to the comedies, the funny ones, but you can’t go wrong with a good horror.”

Incorporating the three elements, often referred to as the “ringer”, is what makes each of these films unique. 

“[Teams] could come in with a game plan, and it could completely change with those three elements of where they have to go, what they have to say and what they have to use,” Traxson said. “It brings in a lot of diversity to the different things, but also ties them all together.”

For first-time participants, including sophomore Mac Ellis and senior Totty Norwood, a thrill ran through the room when the three required items were revealed.

“We’re super excited,” Ellis said. “We love watching movies, and I saw the K-State 48 link and immediately reached out like, ‘We’ve got to do this.”

As teammates, Ellis and Norwood are grateful for the resources K-State provides that allow them not only to participate but also to be competitive.

“K-State makes projects like this super accessible to students,” Norwood said. “Cameras, equipment, literally everything.”

With easy access to equipment, students can put their own spin on the challenge by choosing unique locations. For returning participants like senior Viri Barraza-Rivas, the focus shifts from pressure to perfecting the details of their process.

“I am feeling very excited,” said Barraza-Rivas. “This is always a very fun project, and it’s not just about winning.”

Competing for her third time at K-State, Barraza-Rivas said teamwork and positive energy keep the group motivated throughout the fast-paced 48-hour weekend. She added that this approach remains consistent, even as her team grows and changes each year.

“Laughter keeps us very motivated,” Barraza-Rivas said. “It is a bit of a time crunch, but we’re able to carry that energy throughout and not take ourselves too seriously.”

The completed films will premiere on Friday in the Wildcat Chamber at the K-State Student Union, followed by an award ceremony. All students, faculty and the Manhattan community are encouraged to attend and participate by selecting the film deserving of the Audience Choice Award.