Award-winning films
You can watch each award-winning film by clicking on the title
Judges & Mentors
Biography
Participants
Our participants for the past 4 years are from over 280+ domestic and international universities, high schools and middle schools:
Domestic and international university students majored in Film & TV
Film lovers from over 40+ different other majors at renowned domestic and international universities
Middle school and high school students interested in exploring their interests
History of filMarathon
2100+ Participants
445 Projects
42 Masterclasses
26 Screenings
2018
DEBUT
We set up a new Wechat account and sent out a "trial" invitation for a filMarathon contest that was still in the planning stage; however, countless students expressed interest for filMarathon, and that was when we realized "we must make filMarathon happen even if we will lose money, because we mustn't fail the expectations of so many."
2019
GROWTH
Gradually, filMarathon was seen by more people, and the number of participants nearly doubled. Previous participants reached out to us, hoping to join as volunteers. We started to have sponsors, and we signed a long contract with a venue in line with our screening philosophy. Finally, we, the founders of filMarathon who went to schools across 4 different time zones, had our first meal together after collaborating remotely for two years.
2020
PERSISTENCE
Against the backdrop of an epidemic, in-person activities were difficult to deliver. We decided to transform filMarathon into an online event, when at the time it was only a month away. Solo-filmmaking, as we called it that year, became the default form of contest. Meanwhile, a screenplay competition was introduced for the first time. Furthermore, two in-person table reading events were held under the support of Si’Nan Bookstore. No matter what, we refuse to say that we have to cancel the filMarathon.
2021
BEGIN AGAIN
Although the epidemic was not over, under precautionary measures and carefully designed guidelines, we decided to bring back in-person activities, including pre-competition meet-ups, training courses, screenings and Q&A, even a closing ceremony in an IMAX cinema. We were as happy as the participants, because we believe that the purpose of filMarathon is to bring every film lover together and connect in person.
2022
"To the Lighthouse"
In the year when time seemed to stand still, everyone started to ponder the meaning of filmmaking, creating and recording. Was it merely for amusement? As our peers stuck in the monotonous routine and lost sight of ambitious goals, we sought to be a lighthouse of hope, shining weakly yet resolutely, to guide any needed soul down the path and let them know that they are not alone. The combination of Scriptwriting Competition, 48-hour Film Marathon, and Pitch Night has brought our platform and community to the next level. filMarathon doesn't settle for one contest, but stands for education, connection and collaboration.
The 48-hour filMarathon is a competition that makes my heart pound just at the thought of it! Instead of a competition, I’d rather say it's an amazing journey with a group of people who share the same passion. It’s a journey where we spend time together sharing our unique perspectives, while craving precious sleeping time.
--- Rence
This is truly an event that you will never regret attending. I saw many talented people, got introduced to interesting ideas, and listened to thought-provoking questions. I really felt that all kinds of ideas were encouraged, discussed, and generated through this event. I was really touched by the enthusiasm and genuity of the participants and the sincerity and thoughtfulness of the organizers.
--- Lijun Xiao
I was amazed at the final viewing event — there really were a lot of great projects! Each group had a different theme that they wanted to explore, and they all expressed their themes in their unique ways! Each viewer has their own understanding after watching the films. Yet upon learning the creative concept and the process behind the films, each of us gains more nuanced understanding of the films.
--- Yiqing
What an amazing experience it is to spend 48 hours of nightless days with teammates that I never met before. It was the first time we all tried to shoot a complete short film: six people helped each other through the script writing, storyboarding, shooting, acting on camera, and editing, each of which was a first time in forever. It was definitely a memory that will last a lifetime.
--- Camélia