BENNINGTON, Vt. — There's still time to make a movie — and it only needs to be one minute long.

 

CAT-TV and GNAT-TV are inviting local filmmakers, students, families, first-time creators and experienced storytellers to take part in the competitive 2026 Shires 1-Minute Film Fest. 

 

The idea is simple: create an original film that is 60 seconds or less and submit it by the extended deadline of Oct. 9.

 

"We really want people to know this is something anyone can try," said William Gardner of CAT-TV. "You don't need to think of yourself as a filmmaker or have expensive equipment. Come up with an idea, grab your phone and see what you can create. Sixty seconds goes by pretty quickly."

 

Films can be funny, dramatic, documentary-style, animated, experimental, heartfelt, strange or something completely unexpected. You do not need professional equipment or filmmaking experience to participate. A phone, camera or tablet and a good idea are enough to get started.

 

The festival is open to all ages and experience levels. Films must be original, 60 seconds or less and appropriate for a public community screening. Participants should also follow the festival theme and/or dialogue choices and review the complete submission guidelines before entering.

 

And with the submission deadline getting close, there is a little extra incentive to finally make that film you have been thinking about.