By Andy Tran
The DC Shorts Film Festival is back. Starting tonight, 135 short films from 25 different countries hit local theaters in the District and Merrifield, showcasing the talent of storytelling in a two-to 30-minute span. New to the festival: 17 90-minute film showcases with a mix of drama, Sci-Fi, animation, documentaries, comedies and experimental films. Q&As with the filmmakers will follow the screenings, as well as parties.
To get you started, here is a taste of some Northern Virginia talent represented at the festival.
‘The Champion’
By Jaclyn Noel
“The Champion” is three- to four-minute film that centers on a young boy (played by Xandro Martin) who is enthralled by an Olympic swimming event. He dreams of being on the team, yet his initiative to practice ends with two broken arms. His fascination, however, is undaunted. Inspired by her college roommate, Kelly Marchisio, who had a dream of being a diver when she was a child, Jaclyn Noel directed, produced (with Nick Young) and wrote the film.
The Champion from Jaclyn Noel on Vimeo.
‘The Voyage of Discovery’
By Carla Schaffer
What inspires an artist? How do scientists bring their work to the masses in an intriguing way? And, is biology worthy of an artistic work? In Carla Schaffer‘s documentary, “The Voyage of Discovery,” the world of art meshing with science is brought to the forefront. Schaffer interviewed three D.C. artists—Jessica Beels, Ellyn Weiss and Michele Banks, whom she met while working at American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)—about the inspiration of science in their creative process, and their goal of drawing interest to what scientists are doing.
Voyage of Discovery from Carla Schaffer on Vimeo.
’12-step’
By Joe Dzikiewicz
“12-step” is a screenplay written by Joe Dzikiewicz that follows Count Dracula as he enters a 12-step program to rehabilitate his past transgressions. He goes to a bar and tries to make amends with Mina, a damsel in distress who wants nothing to do with him. Frankenstein and The Wolfman also make appearances. Dzikiewicz will participate in the Screenplay Competition that allows the audience to listen to a table reading.
DC Shorts
Screenings happening throughout Washington, D.C. and Northern Virginia
September 11-22
Ticket prices vary
