WILLEMSTAD – A delegation from Curaçao has returned from Seattle, USA, after attending the 25th edition of Filmapalooza, the global finale of the 48 Hour Film Project. The event brought together filmmakers from around the world, celebrating the creativity and dedication of those who take on the challenge of creating a short film in just 48 hours.
The Curaçao delegation included Jay Hemrajani and Isabel Rodriguez, winners of the 2024 48 Hour Film Project Curaçao, along with City Producers Melissa Verboeket and Bert Aengenendt, and Curaçao Film Commissioner Eloise van Wickeren. Over the course of several days, they attended workshops, participated in networking events, and watched screenings of 146 short films from various countries.
The festival concluded with a spectacular awards ceremony at Seattle’s Fremont Studios, where the top prize went to ‘Here Comes the Nun’ from Aberdeen, Scotland. This winning film will now be featured in the Short Film Corner at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival in France.
Curaçao was proudly represented by ‘I Can’t Say I’m Sorry’, a short film created in just 48 hours by Aisvarya Productions. Reflecting on their experience, filmmaker Jay Hemrajani and cinematographer Isa Rodriguez shared their excitement:
"It was surreal to see our film, made in Curaçao, screened internationally and to witness the audience’s reaction. ‘I Can’t Say I’m Sorry’ has had a tremendous impact on me, and it was amazing to see it resonate with the festival attendees at Filmapalooza. A special thank you to City Producers Bert and Melissa for their incredible support in making this trip possible and for giving filmmakers from Curaçao the opportunity to shine on the international stage."
City Co-Producer Melissa Verboeket highlighted the importance of international exposure for local filmmakers:
"Filmapalooza in Seattle proves that a film created in just 48 hours can reach global audiences. I want to bring that magic to Curaçao so our filmmakers not only see where their talent can take them but also understand that this is just the beginning of their journey."
Curaçao Film Commissioner Eloise van Wickeren echoed this sentiment:
"Filmapalooza demonstrates that film is a universal language. No matter where you're from – even a small island like Curaçao – you can connect with like-minded creatives from across the world, from the USA to Osaka, Japan."
While in Seattle, Verboeket, Aengenendt, and Van Wickeren also held discussions with the international organizers of Filmapalooza to explore the possibility of bringing the festival to Curaçao in the near future.
Looking ahead, filmmakers on the island are encouraged to participate in the 9th edition of the 48 Hour Film Project Curaçao, scheduled for October 2025. The winning team will automatically qualify for Filmapalooza 2026, set to take place in Lisbon, Portugal. From first-time filmmakers to seasoned professionals, everyone is invited to take on the challenge of creating a short film in just one weekend.
Support & Sponsors
The 8th edition of the 48 Hour Film Project Curaçao was made possible through the generous support of:
CX Events
Maduro & Curiel’s Bank
Kentucky Fried Chicken
CINEX
IFA Solar Energy
Curaçao Film Office
Universal Motors
Vidanova Bank
Enterprise Rent-A-Car
