Short Films by Local Directors

Austin's burgeoning reputation as a major film hub is largely bolstered by massive blockbuster directors like Richard Linklater and Robert Rodriguez, but at the other end of the spectrum are a plethora of local filmmakers with a wealth of unexhibited talent. To showcase the latter works - which are often entertaining and sometimes briliant - is a local film collective called Screen Door.

They exist largely to "showcase the talents of local and national filmmakers in a low-pressure, interactive environment", with occasional screenings at Arts on Real Theatre, a former ice warehouse converted into a theatre space. Now their second year in operation, Screen Door tonight presents another installment of eight short films - six of which are by local Austin directors.

The line-up includes the following, with descriptions from their website:

The Ramones and I by Rusty Nails
How the Ramones saved the world, one ostracized teen at a time.

The Lancebian by Jenn Garrison

The Lancebian is an 11 minute "performative documentary" featuring Mocha Jean Herrup, a lesbian who channels the energy of NSYNC, boy-band member Lance Bass. Through verite footage and a heartfelt interview, the audience learns about the neurosis and insecurity felt by a soon to be pop-icon, “The Lancebian.”

The Once and Future Asshole by Spencer Parsons

It's 1999 and time for a new operating system. When Mom's boyfriend brings his crisis of niceness to her house, Julia wonders what all the adults teaching her things really believe about telling the truth, protecting yourself, and leaving a proper tip.

Back Taxes and Hippie Juice: 2 Animated Pieces by Chris Crossland and Chris Reznick

Uncle Sam: benevolent icon of American ideology and justice? or demented hate monger bent on the destruction of hippies everywhere?

Why The Anderson Children Didn't Come to Dinner by Jamie Travis

This is the kind of film Tim Burton wishes he could make. Kind of touching, kind of morbid and totally original.