The Putnam Museum and Science Center hosted its second annual 48-Hour Film Challenge this past weekend, inviting filmmakers of all experience levels to create an original short film in just two days.
Teams received their theme, “Evolve,” at 4 p.m. Friday, Oct. 10. Eight teams then raced against the clock to submit their work by 4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 12.
Later that evening, family, friends and film enthusiasts gathered to watch the films on the Putnam’s giant screen. The short films were shown in two blocks and showcased a range of genres, tones and storytelling techniques.
A panel of judges scored the films based on creativity, storytelling, technical execution and overall impact. This year’s judges included: Michael Mehuys of the Alternating Currents Film Festival Team; Alexander Clark of Artifekz Studios and Xpreshion Multimedia; Linda Cook, digital reporter and content producer at WHBF and professional film critic; and Scott Raper, general manager of The Last Picture House.
The winning films were:
- Critic’s Choice Award: “Real Life” by Little Giant Productions.
- Audience Favorite Award: “Dance of the Monarch” (name not provided).
Winning teams received cash prizes, custom trophies, waiver codes to submit their films to the Quad Cities festival Alternating Currents 2026, and free movie passes to The Last Picture House in downtown Davenport. The winning films also will be featured on select Thursday night screenings at the Putnam.
Due to this year’s success, the 48-Hour Film Challenge will return in 2026, beginning on Oct. 9 with film screenings on Oct. 11.
For upcoming event details, including future film screenings, workshops and community programs, follow the Putnam on social media @PutnamMuseum or visit www.putnam.org
