No need to fly to Toronto, Cannes or even Hollywood to catch a worldwide film festival. This year the flicks are coming to Durango.
For one night only, film-lovers from Durango and Cortez will join more than 100,000 others around the world to judge the 18th annual Manhattan Short Film Festival. Audiences from six continents unite for one week to view and judge films from 10 finalists.
Manhattan Short has been known as the ultimate audience award that salutes the creative talents of people both in front of and behind the camera.
A record-breaking 678 entries were received from 52 countries, with the top 10 hailing from eight different countries. Filmgoers from Durango and Cortez will have the chance to become instant critics and cast their votes for categories of best film and best actor.
According to Joanie Fraughton, Durango Film executive director, this will be the first time the prestigious festival is coming to Cortez.
Films ranging from sophisticated animated shorts to films that highlight the importance of women will be presented.
The local screenings for the festival will be presented by Durango Film at 4 and 7 p.m. Thursday at the Animas City Theatre in Durango. In Cortez, films will show at 7 p.m. Oct. 3 at the Sunflower Theater. Tickets for all screenings are available at www.Durangofilm.org.
Brooklyn folk trio to play Community Concert Hall
The Lone Bellow, a folk trio based in Brooklyn, N.Y., will showcase its piano-laced tunes at 7:30 p.m. Thursday at the Community Concert Hall. The folk trio will be joined in concert by Southern soul singer-songwriter Anderson East.
Described by NPR as a group “that’s climbed the Van Morrison family tree straight to its highest branch,” The Lone Bellow is known for crafting songs that reflect on sincerity and have influences that run the gamut.
Tickets range from $21 to $30 and are available at durangoconcerts.com, or call (970) 247-7657.
By Raychel Johnson
