CHRISTOPHER WOOD: READY, SET, GO SHOOT A FILM >>>

So, think you can write, cast, shoot, score and edit a film? Can you do it all in just three days? Do you have vision, drive, stamina … and 50 bucks? Well then, aspiring auteur, cinematic glory awaits you at The Grand Cinema's 72-Hour Film Festival.

Tacoma’s celebrated independent movie joint kicks off its fourth annual film challenge Thursday, May 1. That night the registered teams, ranging in skill from amateur to not-so-amateur, gather together in the theater’s “poster room” and await the clock to strike eight. At that time Grand staff members hand entrants their assignment, and the contest is officially underway.

To make things interesting, every video must contain certain elements. These elements could include: a prop (usually a familiar, easy-to-locate object), a line of dialogue (plucked from well-known feature films in years past), and a specific locale. To give all entries that unique Tacoma flavor, The Grand likes to keep the location within city limits. Now you get the whole weekend to create a story incorporating this list of requirements.   

Fast forward to Sunday, May 4. Weary but triumphant, you pass through The Grand’s doors once again, this time with a mini-masterpiece in your hands. Just remember that entries won’t be accepted past 8 p.m. May 4. Judges ask for projects in either mini-DV or DVD formats.

For those 72 hours you’ll have bravely endured the birth pangs of genius. Then rest up â€" at least until May 9, when the Rialto Theater plans to screen your and your colleagues’ works for the paying public at 7 p.m. Prizes that evening go to most creative use of each element, audience favorite, and judges’ pick for best film.

Register soon â€" the competition allows a maximum of 30 teams, and as of this writing only six available slots remain. Don’t forget the $50 entry fee when you visit The Grand. That gets you four tickets to the screening.

The clock’s ticking â€" time to dazzle T-Town with your filmmaking.