On a Tuesday night at the homely Roxbury Hotel in Glebe, a pop-up short film festival took place. Amidst a live band, a westie comedian and the distinctive buzz of after-work drinks, Future Shorts made its way to Sydney.
Future Shorts was designed to localise the culture and entertainment of a wide-scale short film festival; so that you may enjoy it in the comfort of your own neighbourhood, possibly being hosted by a friend of yours. Anyone can host the range of short films simply by becoming part of this nomadic experience.
Tuesday’s event begun with the peppy ‘Stephane Brenau’, a duo acoustic act who warmed up the assembling 20-30 year old crowd with a few covers, including a French rendition of ‘Sweet Child O’ Mine’. As I snacked on an incredible selection of mixed dumplings (for only $5.00!), I noticed the excitement in the air was brewing. You could sense that those here were eager to see the first pop-up event in Sydney, eager to experience award-winning short films in an intimate environment.
The band gave way to the comedy styling of Mick Meredith who had us bursting with laughter from the very first joke. We’d gone from relaxed tunes to comedy, and were now ready for a night of wonder. I myself wondered if the prior entertainment was purposely chosen, as they differed vastly, much like the short films about to follow.
The lights dimmed and we all gazed to the projection screen. I’d read the bios of the films and was surprised to see that four out of the six were highly awarded, including an Australian film, ‘Deeper than Yesterday’ - now I was supporting the Arts and the Aussies!
The films ranged from sorrowful, to strange, to the incomprehensible and finally, the delightful - a perfect mix. Between each film, slightly tipsy chatter arose as people discussed the apparent – and sometimes unapparent – meanings.
Who were we to judge these films you may ask? We were you!
The beauty of Future Shorts is that it happens anywhere, at anytime and with anyone. Forget stuffy and informal art galleries or expensive theatre shows; for $16 you are given over three hours to enjoy and completely indulge in the notion that you are a part of a worldwide event. You are viewing some of the best-rated short films of the year.
Future Shorts is a fabulous philosophy, which was hosted by two fabulous women who made everyone feel incredibly comfortable. The event was a well-organised and highly entertaining night; not only were we treated to amazing stories and adventures, we were buttered up with live music and outrageous laughs.
If the next Future Shorts showing in Sydney is anything like the first, Sydney is in for a brilliant time!
Reviewed by Lana Hilton
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