In May, Alibi’s Midnight Movie Madness at Guild Cinema screened James Nguyen’s brilliant bit of cinematic madness Birdemic: Shock and Terror. The film continues to mesmerize and confuse audiences around the globe. There’s a special midnight screening at the legendary San Diego Comic-Con International this weekend, for example. But Albuquerque is doing them one better. We’re bringing back Birdemic for a special encore performance on Friday and Saturday, July 23 and 24—and we’ve got the film’s lead actress, the lovely and talented Whitney Moore, live in person. The good-natured Ms. Moore will participate in a Q&A before the film, discussing her experiences making the cult horror flick. The screening/Q&A starts at 10:30 p.m. Tickets are $7 at the Guild box office (3405 Central NE). To check out the film’s mind-bending, life-altering trailer, log on to the Birdemic website.
Reel World: Shootout Reloads Shootout Reloads
If you hear the sound of a shotgun early this Friday morning, don’t panic. It’s just the return of the Duke City Shootout. The filmmaking/film-viewing festival is springing back to life after a year’s hiatus. The festival gives six teams of filmmakers seven days in which to complete 10-minute films. That seems almost like a luxury after last week’s manic 48 Hour Film Project, but Duke City Shootout has a history of producing some fine films in its own right. In the past, several Shootout winners have gone on to success in other film festivals around the world. This year’s finished films will be screened at a gala premiere at Popejoy Hall at the University of New Mexico on Saturday, July 31. Tickets are already available at the UNM Ticket Office (UNM Bookstore), Lobo Ticket Office (University and Cesar Chavez), Arts Ticket Office (Popejoy Hall) or through www.unmtickets.com.
Reel World: Further Submissions Further Submissions
New Mexico doesn’t seem to be lacking in film festivals these days. Filmmakers looking for more outlets for their work are encouraged to submit to the 2010 Southwest Gay & Lesbian Film Festival (taking place this Oct. 8 through 14). Friday, July 23, is the final deadline for submission of suitable features, documentaries and shorts. Entry fee is $20 per title. Applications can be submitted through Withoutabox or via regular mail.
