The Mystery Box Film Challenge

Overview

The Mystery Box Film Challenge is a film challenge for all who love to make films. Participants get items/prompts that they have to use in their film. Like the television show Chopped on Food Network but for filmmakers. Filmmakers have roughly 2 months to complete a film using the items/prompts which will be announced online and listed here. Those who submit finished films will have them premiere at the Northeast Pennsylvania Film Festival followed by a short Q&A and small awards presentation. So are you up for the challenge? _______________ Here are your 2027 Mystery Box Film Challenge Requirements: Character Name: Morgan Item 1: A Red Bandana Item 2: A Fortune Cookie Item 3: A Pair of Funky Socks Item 4: A Magnifying Glass The name Morgan must be spoken out loud on camera by at least one character during the film, or spoken as part of a voiceover. The red bandana must be clearly visible in frame. It can be worn (headband, neckerchief, wristband), tied around an object (like a bag or steering wheel), or used as a functional prop (wiping a surface, tucked in a pocket). The fortune cookie itself must be shown on camera. It can be whole, cracked open, eaten, or the written fortune slip inside can be read out loud or displayed on screen. The funky pair of socks must feature a distinct pattern, bright colors, or a quirky design ( not plain white/black/solid color socks). They must be worn by a character or interactively handled on camera. The magnifying glass must be physically handled, held, or used by a character during a scene (e.g. inspecting an object, looking through the lens, or carried as a prop). Items can be store-bought, homemade, borrowed etc....but must be visible on camera.

Last updated Sep 27, 2026

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• Filmmaker

  My son’s first time submitting a movie! This experience was fun and rewarding at the same time. He loved to see all the different types of entries! We will do it again!

• Filmmaker

  Really enjoyed myself and loved having to include the list of items for the short film. It pushes you as a creative and seeing the other entries was so much fun. There was so many amazing short films. It was inspiring to see and to experience other create masterpieces.

• Filmmaker

  We had a blast at The Mystery Box Film Challenge and NEPA Film Festival. We will 100% be participating again next year!

• Filmmaker

  A wonderful fun competition that has gives a generous amount of time to make a film under their constraints. The organizers were very communicative and were even kind enough to mail us a care package along with our award. Working with the NEPA film festival, this is a great celebration of indie filmmaking.

• Filmmaker

  I'm a little late to reviewing. But I found this festival during the 2025 Season and tried it out! Although I wasn't able to attend in person, I still had an awesome time crafting a story that landed within their parameters! I look forward to seeing the official selections from the 2026 season!

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