FILM: 48-HOUR FILMMAKING CHALLENGE

Age group: Juniors (Grades 3-6)
Class Size: 10 max

Lights, camera… imagination!

In this fun and fast-paced two-day workshop, young filmmakers will take on a 48-hour filmmaking challenge, working together in small groups to create their very own short film from start to finish.

Guided by filmmaker and Aarushi Chowdhury, students will learn how films are made as they move through the creative process step by step, coming up with an idea, shaping it into a simple script, and bringing it to life on camera.

Designed especially for primary school students, this workshop is all about creativity, collaboration and having fun with storytelling. Students will be encouraged to share ideas, experiment, and discover the magic of filmmaking in a supportive, low-pressure environment.

By the end of the challenge, each group will have created their own mini short film, a story they imagined, filmed and brought to life together.

Teacher: Aarushi Chowdhury

Aarushi Chowdhury is a filmmaker whose work spans short film, commercial directing and television development. Her award-winning short film Clown, which she co-wrote and directed, has screened at major festivals including SXSW Sydney, Melbourne International Film Festival, the Australian Women in Film Festival, and Cannes Indies Shorts Awards. In 2024, Aarushi was named “One to Watch” at the Australian Women in Film Festival, recognising her as one of Australia’s most exciting rising voices in filmmaking.

Alongside her narrative work, Aarushi has directed commercial campaigns for brands including Intrepid Travel (MIFF collaboration), Snooze, and KGM SsangYong, as well as creative projects for the Melbourne Women in Film Festival in partnership with ACMI. She has finished directing and co-writing a new short film, Phorid, funded by Creative Victoria.  

Aarushi began her career working across all departments of the screen industry including Art Directing, camera and lighting, editing and assistant directing. Aarushi’s broader screen experience also includes working as a research writer in television, as well as roles in the casting departments for the international production Shantaram. She has also directed branded content and corporate storytelling for organisations including AAMI Insurance & M&Ms.  

Dates: 9 & 10 April (2-day workshop)
Time: 10am-2pm both days
Age Group: Juniors (Grades 3-6)
Cost: $200
What to bring: Please bring some lunch, snacks and a water bottle.