Winners of 48 Hour Film Project

Stan Araboux and Mia Escoï won the 2025 Reunion edition of the 48 Hour Film Project with their short film Pou fé lèv soleil. Their film was based on a local legend and earned them a spot at Filmapalooza, an international festival for 48 Hour Film Project winners.

Structure of the competition

The 48 Hour Film Project requires teams to randomly select a genre and receive three mandatory elements: a character, a line, and an object. They then have 48 hours to write, film, edit, and submit their film. The event has been held in Reunion since 2021, with the 2025 edition organized by the Webcup association.

Inspiration from Reunion legend

Stan Araboux drew inspiration from a Reunion legend about the rooster-man for the film’s script. He reimagined the character as a lovable, silent hero named Hélios, whose cries cause the sun to rise. His mother, obsessed with witchcraft, locks him away, but his voice ultimately brings joy to the island.

Cultural and linguistic connections

At Filmapalooza in Lisbon, Stan Araboux worried that the Creole-based story might not resonate with international audiences. However, spectators from diverse backgrounds recognized similar legends from their own cultures. Despite language barriers, the film’s universal emotions connected people from different regions.

Experiences at the festival

Filmapalooza brought together over 100 films from around the world, with screenings held daily. Stan Araboux and his team formed new connections with participants from Puerto Rico, Japan, and other countries. Mia Escoï used the event to network as an underwater cinematographer, while Elaura, the actress, expanded her professional circle.

Continued journey of the film

After returning to Reunion, Pou fé lèv soleil was screened at the Court Derrière festival alongside films from Mozambique and Tahiti. Stan Araboux also shared a 2D animation of the film on social media. The audience award at the festival went to Alain Samaar for his short film Sentié Fénwar. The experience reinforced the team’s belief in the power of storytelling to bridge cultural divides.