CC7D FAQs

Got questions? We've gathered the greatest hits. Still need help? Email us at infocc7d@gmail.com.

 

What is CC7D?

Corpus Christi 7 Day Film Project (CC7D) is a wild, weeklong filmmaking sprint. Teams have just 7 days to make a short film—from concept to credits. It's about boosting local filmmaking, building skills, and showcasing Coastal Bend talent—newbies and pros alike.

 

2025 Event Dates

June 18 – Cast & Crew Call @ House of Rock (6 PM)
July 9 – Kick-Off Event @ House of Rock (6 PM)
July 16 – Film Turn-In @ House of Rock (no earlier than 6 PM)
August 31 – Screening @ Alamo Drafthouse + Awards Ceremony @ House of Rock

Who Can Join?
Anyone! Under 18? Just bring a signed guardian waiver.

How Can I Participate in CC7D?

• Start a team (grab your crew + register at Kick-Off)

• Need helping building a team?  Want to join a team? Come to the CC7D Cast & Crew Call on June 18. 
  Learn more about the cast and crew call here.

• Volunteer (help out at events—email us!)

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I’m new. I’m nervous. I don’t know what I’m doing. Any advice? 
Perfect. Join the club. Many CC7D filmmakers are first-timers.Use what you’ve got—phone, laptop, borrowed mic, friends. Practice now. Edit a TikTok. Try sound syncing. Then jump in. Your second film will be better. So will your third. But it starts with the first.

What are the films about?
Anything you want. Genre and story are up to the team. Writing starts after Kick-Off.

Are the films family-friendly?
Not necessarily. Films are unrated and may include adult content. We'll warn audiences if specific films aren’t suitable for younger viewers.

What keeps people from cheating?
We give each team four secret “must-have” elements (character, prop, line, and a wild card) at Kick-Off. Films must include them all. But mostly? We trust you. Don’t cheat—it’s not the vibe.

Can I use popular music or logos?
Nope. You must own the rights to anything you use—music, logos, trademarks, brand names. Need a soda in a scene? Turn the Coke label away. Want music? Collaborate with a local artist. Or make your own! When in doubt, leave it out.

What’s a “natural state” use?
If a restaurant sign happens to be in the background—fine. But if your character chugs a branded soda close-up? That’s a no-go for awards. Background = okay. Featured use = risk.

Do I need permission to shoot at a business?
Yes. Always get a location release. It's essential. Be professional and respectful—especially with local businesses that support CC7D.

How much does it cost?
$60 per team. Cash only. Pay at Kick-Off.

What awards can we win?
Plaques + bragging rights for:
Grand Jury (1st), Runner-Up (2nd), Honorable Mention (3rd), 4th and 5th Place, Audience Award, Filmmaker Award, Best Director, Actor/Actress, Supporting Roles, Ensemble, Best Cinematography, Original Song, Score, Screenplay, Young Filmmaker Award, Influencer Award, Best Use of Required Elements (Prop, Character, Line).

Who judges the films?
Industry professionals—directors, producers, writers, actors, educators, and reps from film organizations.

How are films judged?

Five categories: Story/Concept/Creativity, Technical Execution, Acting, Overall Impression

Can we have opening credits?
Yes—but they count toward your total runtime. Plan wisely.

Do I have to use a professional camera?
Because everyone’s got tech now. Phones, DSLRs, tablets. Film with what works best for you.

Can we use stock photos?
Yes—if you have the rights.  You can also use stock sound effects if you have the rights to them.

What format should we film in?
Whatever works. Just know that your film will screen as-is. HD, 4K, surround sound, mono—do what you can. When in doubt, go simple and make it solid.  However, you must export the film as an .mp4 file. 

Who owns the films?
You do! CC7D just gets permission to screen it, post it on our YouTube, and use clips for promo. You can edit and submit your film elsewhere afterward.

Who picks the secret elements?
The CC7D Steering Committee. They're locked in a vault (okay, maybe a Google Doc) until Kick-Off.

Can actors be in multiple films?
Yes—but if they are, they won’t be eligible for acting awards. And be careful: overcommitting can hurt teams’ schedules and the viewer’s suspension of disbelief. One team = best experience.

Can I make a sequel from a previous CC7D film I made?
Yes—but it must be a new story with new work during the 7-day window. Think Ghostbusters II, not Back to the Future Part II.

Can I raise money for my film?
Sure—ask your friends, family, church, business. Just don’t use the CC7D name when you do it. Only the Steering Committee can solicit on behalf of the event.

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Got a different question?  Send us an email at infocc7d@gmail.com