One Perfect Shot

Film Festival Challenges Directors to Make a Great Movie With Just One Shot

The free event runs Oct. 8-10.

By Marc Griffin September 21, 2021

Now in its sixth year, Sarasota's Single-Take Challenge film festival will be held both live and online in early October. Created and hosted by actor Mark Troy, the event presents “single-take” films—films created without cuts or edits—made specifically for the festival by aspiring filmmakers from all over.

Single-Take Challenge creator Mark Troy.

Image: Tina Golder

So far, the event has several confirmed filmmakers who will be flying into Sarasota for the live show from Colorado, South Carolina, Ohio and Pennsylvania.

Begun in 2016, the festival has attracted professional filmmakers to screen films and choose winners. Troy says that for young filmmakers, doing “single-take” films is a great way to sharpen their skills while also earning exposure to a broader audience.

"Making a film without cuts or edits requires a tremendous amount of planning and rehearsal," says Troy. "This is like an international sports competition in a way. We celebrate filmmakers, not celebrities, and we are proud to be part of Sarasota’s art scene.”

The in-person festival takes place at 7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 9, at Lakewood Ranch Cinema, 10715 Rodeo Drive, #8, Lakewood Ranch. Tickets are free and can be reserved online. The online festival takes place Oct. 8-10. A link to the films and the audience poll for best film will be published at 5 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 8, on Facebook. Winners will be announced at 8 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 10.

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