London Film School is proud to be partnering with LAMDA and RD Studios on the launch of the 2Day Film Challenge, a global 48-hour filmmaking competition designed to discover and celebrate the next generation of creative talent.
This exciting new challenge invites aspiring filmmakers from around the world to write, shoot and edit an original short film in just 48 hours, offering a unique opportunity for emerging creatives to showcase their work to leading figures from across the screen industries.
We are delighted to announce that the 2026 judging panel will include Academy Award-nominated actor Benedict Cumberbatch, acclaimed filmmaker and London Film School alumnus Mike Leigh, and IMDb Founder and Executive Chair Col Needham.
Together, they will review the top submissions before selecting the winning films, which will be showcased at a special Gala Screening on Saturday 19 September 2026 at LAMDA’s Sainsbury Theatre in London.
A global challenge for emerging filmmakers
The 2Day Film Challenge has been created to provide an accessible route into filmmaking, welcoming participants of all experience levels and backgrounds. Open to entrants worldwide, the competition removes many of the traditional barriers associated with film production and encourages creativity, collaboration and bold storytelling.
Participants will receive the official challenge brief at 7pm BST on Friday 3 July 2026 and will then have until 7pm BST on Sunday 5 July 2026 to complete and submit a three-to-five-minute short film.
By bringing together LAMDA, London Film School and RD Studios, the challenge creates a platform where emerging filmmakers can develop new creative partnerships, gain valuable industry exposure and share their work with influential voices from across the film and television sector.
Meet the Judges
Benedict Cumberbatch
One of the most celebrated actors of his generation, Benedict Cumberbatch has built an international career through a wide range of acclaimed performances across film, television and theatre. Known for his ability to bring depth and complexity to every role, he brings a wealth of creative insight to this year’s judging panel.
Mike Leigh
Few filmmakers have shaped contemporary British cinema as profoundly as Mike Leigh. A graduate of London Film School, Leigh is renowned for his distinctive approach to storytelling and his remarkable body of work spanning more than five decades. His involvement reflects the challenge’s commitment to nurturing original voices and supporting emerging talent.
Col Needham
As Founder and Executive Chair of IMDb, Col Needham has played a significant role in connecting audiences with film and television for more than 25 years. His expertise in film culture, discovery and the global screen industries will bring a unique perspective to the judging process.
Prizes and Career Opportunities
In addition to industry recognition and networking opportunities, finalists and winners will have access to a range of prizes designed to support their future filmmaking ambitions.
First Prize
- £3,000 cash prize
- £20,000 worth of production resources from RD Studios
- Fast-track access to any London Film School course
Second Prize
- £1,500 worth of equipment hire from VMI
- A place on the London Film School Summer School 2027
Third Prize
- £1,000 worth of equipment hire from VMI
- A place on any London Film School workshop
All finalists will be invited to attend the Gala Screening in London, where the winning films will be announced and participants will have the opportunity to connect with fellow filmmakers, industry professionals and members of the judging panel.
Registration Now Open – Registration for the 2Day Film Challenge is now open.
Whether you’re an aspiring director, writer, producer, editor or filmmaker taking your first steps into the industry, the challenge offers a chance to create, collaborate and share your work with some of the most respected names in film.
For full details, competition rules and registration information, visit the official 2Day Film Challenge website.
