Welcome to TFD 301 - Film Podcasts for Everyone. Class is now in session!

In this class our new hosts Lex, Matthew and Robby interview UNLV Film alum Edwin Ramirez ('24) whose 48 Hour Film Project - Las Vegas film THERE'S SOMETHING IN THE WATER won First Place: Best Film of 2025.

Edwin shares his insider's knowledge for shooting a successful 48 Hour competition project as UNLV Film enters its own 48 this weekend (October 10-12)

Takeaways
Preparation is key for a successful 48-hour film.
Finding unique locations can enhance production value.
Casting early can streamline the filmmaking process.
A well-written script is crucial, even in a short timeframe.
Collaboration with a trusted crew can improve the final product.
Editing during filming can save time and improve quality.
Incorporating prompts creatively can enhance storytelling.
Maintaining a positive atmosphere on set is essential.
Feeding the crew is important for morale and productivity.
Having fun is the ultimate goal of the 48-hour challenge.

Summary
In this engaging conversation, Edwin Ramirez shares his experiences and insights from participating in the 48-hour film festival. He discusses the importance of preparation, the writing process, and the challenges faced during filming. Edwin emphasizes the significance of collaboration with a trusted crew and the need for a well-written script, even in a short timeframe. He also highlights the themes and messages in his award-winning film, 'There's Something in the Water,' and offers valuable advice for aspiring filmmakers.

Sound bites
"Preparation is key for a successful 48-hour film."
"Finding unique locations can enhance production value."
"Casting early can streamline the filmmaking process."

Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Technical Setup
01:06 Edwin's Background and 48-Hour Film Experience
05:48 Preparation for the 48-Hour Film Challenge
10:31 Writing and Shooting Process
15:17 Catering and Crew Management
19:56 Technical Aspects and Visuals of the Film
24:43 Themes and Messages in the Film
29:46 The Creative Process: Embracing Procrastination
30:21 Advice for the UNLV 48: Preparation and Casting
31:12 The Importance of Enjoying the Journey
31:28 Looking Forward: Anticipation for Future Projects
32:17 Podcast Structure: Setting the Stage for Future Episodes
34:31 Reflections on the Conversation: Insights and Takeaways
38:48 Final Thoughts: Wrapping Up the Episode


Watch this episode (and all previous episodes) on UNLV College of Fine Arts Podcasts

Credits:

Email us: [email protected] 

HOSTS - Lex de Asis, Matthew Trudeau, Robby Baker

PRODUCERS - Tom Bjelic, Sam Decker
EXECUTIVE PRODUCED BY - Adam Paul, Roudi Boroumand 

For The Beverly:
Kip Kelly, Founding Creative Director | Chief Experience Officer
Alexi Harber, General Manager
Ivy Ergunes, Marketing Manager

To read the hosts' reviews, head over to: https://thefilmdeptpodcast.substack.com/

Once again, The Film Department has teamed up with the mad geniuses of The Beverly Theater. Imagined by The Rogers Foundation, The Beverly Theater brings cinematic connectivity, novel collaborations, live happenings, cultural portals, and a zest for independent spirits to DTLV. With a mission to stage uncommon cinematic, literary, and live experiences, The Beverly Theater is Las Vegas’ first and only independent film house, storytelling arena, and live music venue.

For the latest screenings and events at The Beverly, visit thebeverlytheater.com The Film Department Podcast is supported by UNLV Film.

At the film department of the University of Nevada Las Vegas, every story has a beginning.With degree programs for undergraduates and graduates, state of the art equipment and facilities, incredible professional internships around the world, and expert guest speakers, students discover the power and potential of cinema as they prepare for the film and television industry… and beyond. 

Learn more at UNLV.EDU/FILM UNLV Film. Find your voice. Tell your story.