A storytelling challenge
In a world where connections are made in the most unexpected places, Closing Time explores the human condition through the lens of the night. You’ve heard stories. You’ve probably been part of some.
It’s time to bring them to life!
WTF is Closing Time?
We are building a mini web series. And you can make your own episodes!
The concept is simple: it all happens in bars at night. Bars across Berlin – and across the globe, hopefully. The bar keeper is always about to close the place when OMG someone makes his way in or someone is in there and doesn’t want to leave. The bar keeper is (too) nice and will let the patron in / stay.
The guest has a reason for the shelter and a story that drives the episode. They are running away from someone, or they were shot or they have a dark reason why they really need a drink or they want to rob him.
The plot unfolds as the guest always brings in their (life) story and the bar keeper usually is overwhelmed, confused but helpful and full of deep yet simple insights.
Why will this be cool?
Dive into the heart of Berlin’s nocturnal charm and beyond with our latest cinematic venture, "Closing Time" – a mini web series that turns the mundane into the extraordinary. Imagine the magic of bars at night, not just as a backdrop, but as a canvas for storytelling that knows no bounds. Every episode is a new revelation, a new story, as the barkeeper is about to turn the lights off, and then... "OMG," someone walks in.
"Closing Time" is not just a web series; it's a global journey set in the intimate confines of bars, where each night tells a different tale. From Berlin’s eclectic haunts to bars across the globe, every episode is a standalone masterpiece tied together by one constant – the bar at closing time. This is where you come in.
Restrictions
First things first: nobody is making any money here.
It always has to play in a bar. No other locations.
The story has to take place at night.
A bar keeper and a maximum of two guests.
The script: 5 – 10 pages max.
The episodes: 3 – 10 minutes runtime max.
There should be a twist somehow.
The dialogue has to be cool and interesting.
One or two shooting days max.
Who can join this adventure?
We're looking for passionate filmmakers, directors, writers, cinematographers, and anyone who believes in the power of storytelling. Whether you're seasoned in your craft or a fresh talent with a unique vision, "Closing Time" is your platform to shine. This is about the stories that walk into a bar at the end of the night, each carrying a universe of emotions, secrets, and tales begging to be told by you!
Rules
Episodes are self-contained: they don’t have to be connected.
All genres are allowed – apart from X-rated.
The episodes will be uploaded to our YouTube Channel.
English subtitles.
No / super low budget.
Bars should not be paid (with money). Improve your producer skills!
The bar should to be named – if they want to.
Make it moody! Lights & smoke
Bar owners!
🥃
Bar owners! 🥃
You are not a filmmaker, but happen to have or run a bar? Wow! Let’s do an episode at your place! Of course you can use the episode on your channels and website and we will mention you in the credits. Of course, this is not for everyone, but for those who are interested in movies and want to support the concept, young filmmakers and the Filmmakers & Movie Nerds it could be really cool.
What’s in it for you? You can use the material for your marketing for free. Website, Social Media, you name it. Of course we’ll put you in the credits and mention you across our channels. You don’t have to own a bar of course, you could also tell us your favorite one and create a connection. We are looking for moody bars to shoot in.
We understand the importance of your business operations and are committed to ensuring that filming is conducted with minimal disruption. Our professional and efficient crew is ready to work during off-hours or at your convenience, guaranteeing that our presence adds value without hindering your operations.
Join us on this journey
Your creativity can bring these stories to life, turning fleeting moments into timeless narratives. This is your chance to make an impact, to capture the essence of night-time storytelling, and to showcase your talent on a platform that celebrates diversity, creativity, and the art of filmmaking.
Be a part of "Closing Time," and let’s create something extraordinary together. This is more than a call for participation; it’s an invitation to be part of a storytelling revolution.
What’s in it for you?
Creative Freedom: Each episode is a blank page for your creativity. Direct, script, or shoot, your vision will drive the narrative.
Diverse Storytelling: The potential is limitless. You can choose your favorite genre: Drama, comedy, mystery, Zombie, thriller, …
Global Audience: As "Closing Time" makes its mark, not just in Berlin but globally, your work will reach an international audience, offering you unparalleled exposure.
Collaborative Network: Our community will let you find a crew, exchange ideas, collaborate on projects, and expand your professional network.
Quick turn-around: With the restrictions in place, you are forced to contain your story in the limits of the challenge.
Let’s capture the beauty of the night –
one closing at a time.
Call for writers ✒️
We are looking for people who’d like to get together on episodes or a writing think tank. We want to create a web series and a playground, so people can join and create. As a project of the Filmmakers & Movie Nerds Collective, there will be producers, directors, DOPs, actors, editors to put the ideas into moving images. If you are curious, good hearted, ambitious, a bit crazy and a movie nerd with love for creations please join.
