The Greatest Film Ever

The Greatest Film Ever Competition is a tongue-in-cheek filmmaking contest, to inspire our members to produce films and get creative.  The winner of each contest get's the title of 'The Greatest Film Ever" and the ability to gloat around town with the Championship Belt.

Each round of competition will be geared around a different topic, filmmaking style, genre, or any other crazy way we can think of to have fun making films, with some friendly competition.

Previous Greatest Film Ever Contests:

#2 The Greatest Fake Movie Trailer Ever

#1 Deja View 2022

Contest # 3 - The Greatest Oner Ever

One Take to Rule Them All!  Put your filmmaking skills to the test by creating a short film in a single long take.  No tricky editing techniques, no unbroken shots, just a well planned, well blocked, well rehearsed scene.  Can you do it in a Oner?

2024 The Oner Contest Films

'Short Notice' by Bill Sharkey
**Winner**

'The Beanie Burglars' by The Beanie Brothers

'The Beacon' by Shri Ananda


Rules & Eligibility

  • Must be an OSIF Member to submit.  Not a member?  Sign up today!
  • Entry Fee - $15
  • True One Takes Only - No tricky camera techniques, or creative edits.  It must be one true, unbroken, long take!
  • Minimum Length: 1 minute
  • Maximum Length: Unlimited (but we don't really want to watch a 30 minute oner, so keep it contained)
  • Title Cards and Credits should not be included within the One Take.  All titles and credits must be white text on a black background, before and after the video.
  • Any videos created using unsafe practices (anything that puts the cast and crew in danger, or made doing an illegal activity) will be disqualified.

Prizes

1st Place Winner will be crowned the "Greatest Filmmaker Ever", and given the championship belt as well as $500 Cash provided by The Snakebite Film Festival.  The Winner will also be screened at the 2025 Okanagan Screen Awards Film Festival!

Additional Prizes of Best of Story and Best of Technical will also be awarded.


Dates

Submissions Open - Wednesday, July 17th

Submissions Closed - Monday, Sept 2nd - 11:59pm

How to Submit

Fill out and Submit the submission form below

Pay the entry fee via credit card by the Donation form below - or send an E-Transfer to payment@osif.org

Payment

Fill out the Donation form to pay by credit card, or send $15 E-Transfer to payment@osif.org

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TIPS on how to make an effective Oner:

    Creating an effective one-shot short film requires careful planning, creativity, and technical proficiency. Here are some tips to help you craft a compelling one-shot short film:


    Pre-Production

    1. Concept and Story:

      • Keep it Simple: A one-shot film limits the amount of complex narrative you can include. Focus on a simple, strong story.
      • Strong Hook: Start with a captivating element to grab the audience's attention immediately.
    2. Planning and Scripting:

      • Detailed Script: Write a detailed script that includes precise actions, dialogues, and movements.
      • Storyboard: Create a detailed storyboard to visualize each moment of the film. This helps in understanding the flow and camera movements.
      • Rehearse: Rehearse extensively with your actors and crew. Everyone should know their cues and timing perfectly.
    3. Location Scouting:

      • Versatile Locations: Choose locations that can provide diverse backdrops and dynamics within a single continuous shot.
      • Lighting Considerations: Plan the lighting carefully, considering the natural light changes and how artificial lights can be used.

    Production

    1. Camera Work:

      • Stabilization: Use a Steadicam, gimbal, or other stabilization equipment to ensure smooth camera movements.
      • Plan the Route: The camera's path should be meticulously planned to avoid obstacles and ensure fluid movement.
    2. Coordination:

      • Crew Coordination: Ensure that the crew is well-coordinated and knows their responsibilities, especially the camera operator and focus puller.
      • Actor Timing: Actors' movements and dialogues should be perfectly timed to avoid any mishaps during the take.  Rehearsals are key!
    3. Technical Aspects:

      • Sound: Plan for sound recording carefully, considering the movement and distance of actors from the microphone. A wireless mic setup or boom mic might be necessary.
      • Backup Plans: Have contingency plans for unexpected issues like lighting changes, unexpected sounds, or technical failures.

    Post-Production

    1. Editing:

      • Minimal Editing: While the goal is to have a seamless one-shot, minor post-production work might be needed for color correction and sound mixing.
      • Sound Design: Enhance the film with appropriate sound effects and background score to complement the visuals.
    2. Feedback and Refinement:

      • Test Screenings: Conduct test screenings to get feedback on pacing, clarity, and overall impact.
      • Refinements: Make necessary adjustments based on feedback, especially in sound design and color grading.

    Additional Tips

    • Pacing and Rhythm: Ensure that the pacing is engaging. Avoid dragging moments and keep the audience immersed.
    • Focus on Emotion: One-shot films are great for capturing raw emotions. Focus on the performances and make sure they convey the story effectively.
    • Experiment and Innovate: Don’t be afraid to try new techniques or experiment with different storytelling methods within the one-shot format.

    Creating an effective one-shot short film is challenging but highly rewarding. With meticulous planning and execution, you can create a captivating and memorable film.


    Oner Examples

    Get in Touch - info@osif.org

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