Monday, September 7, 2026 · Doors Open 6:00 PM · A Labor Day Special
Screen fantastic collection of films in THE BEST OF THE 48 HOUR FILM PROJECT. Ever wonder what it takes to make a movie? This is a dynamic event, and not just one film — it's a social gathering, conversation, and a curated lineup of the very best from 70,000+ films made across more than 100 cities worldwide, screening together on one night. Alongside standout entries from the international 48 Hour Film Project circuit, we're also proudly including films made by our own Maryland filmmakers — proof that the same creative energy powering competitions from coast to coast is alive right here at home.
Star Guest: Mark Ruppert — From a D.C. Experiment to a Global Filmmaking Phenomenon
In 2001, Mark Ruppert had an idea that seemed almost impossible: challenge filmmakers to write, shoot, and edit an entire short film in just 48 hours. He wasn't running a studio or a national institution — he was a working filmmaker in the D.C. area, hand-delivering flyers to get the word out about what he called "an experiment."
That experiment is now the 48 Hour Film Project — the world's largest and longest-running filmmaking competition. What began blocks from where many of tonight's audience members live and work has grown into a launchpad sending city winners to the Cannes Film Festival's Short Film Corner and to Filmapalooza, its international "best of" showcase. This is a behind-the-scenes look at the filmmaking process and an intimate perspective on the filmmaker experience.
Join us for an intimate, interactive conversation with Mark himself — from the local idea nobody was sure would work, to a movement now reaching red carpets abroad — live and in person, taking your questions, followed by an audience Q&A with local Maryland filmmakers who have been part of the 48 Hour Film Project. We'll also preview some of the dynamic films screening this Season!
A Fun, Entertaining Night at Collective Encore with Delicious Food Options and Bar!
Settle in for the screenings, meet Mark Ruppert face-to-face, and stick around for an audience Q&A alongside the local Maryland filmmakers behind tonight's hometown entries. And while the films run the show, Collective Encore's menu and bar are yours to enjoy all evening — think Maryland Crab Chowder, Chesapeake Arancini, a Crab Cake Sandwich on brioche, and craft cocktails like the Kittamaqundi Crush, all available to order right from your seat. (Food & beverage available for purchase directly through Collective Encore, separate from your festival ticket.)
🎟️ Individual tickets available $30 or attend at no extra cost with an All Festival Pass ($75) which gives access to ALL Screenings, in-person or virtual, and to all Special Events.
The Collective ENCORE A performing arts venue in Columbia, MD, offering a variety of live performances, including music concerts and theater productions.
#CMFF2026 #OpeningNight #48HourFilmProject #CollectiveEncore #ColumbiaMD