What's Up - Your guide to what's happening in Fayetteville, AR this week!
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FEBRUARY 27-MARCH 5, 2022 WHAT'S UP! 3 Three Days, 33 Films Rogers Short Film Festival wants place on the map BECCA MARTIN-BROWN NWA Democrat-Gazette S hort films typically get the 'short' end of the stick at traditional film festivals, pardon my pun," says Elizabeth McCurdy, co-director with StudioChunky's Barry Cobb of the Rogers Short Film Festival. Now in its second year — and growing like a well- fed toddler — the festival will feature 33 films shown over the March 4-6 weekend at Arkansas Public Theatre at the Victory in Rogers. One of the things that sets the festival apart, says McCurdy, is that it has been structured to let filmmakers compete against their peers. "Typically, you will be offered a single short film category, with studio- backed, high-budget films competing against first-time filmmaker(s)," she explains, adding that the RSFF is offering a student category for ages through high school; a post-secondary student category; an amateur category for first-time filmmakers or films not backed by a production company or outside funding; and a professional category. "The really exciting thing about this layout is that we get to see the work of students, emerging filmmakers, and the developing professional film industry in Northwest Arkansas and across the country," McCurdy enthuses. "These films were created with a passion and love for filmmaking, and we are so excited to share them at the festival." This year's event will also include a VIP Lounge for filmmakers and all-access pass holders; a Filmmakers Happy Hour at Kinya Christian's Into+View Art Gallery and Studio; a networking breakfast at Onyx's private Dry Storage space; an awards ceremony; and an awards after-party "I believe coffee is a language that can be shared cross- culturally as a means of authentic connection," says Brooke Bierhaus. "That is what I focused both documentaries on as I traveled and filmed for four years on this project. I conducted interviews in nine languages across five continents, and am so grateful for the people and communities who opened up their lives and homes to me during that time." (Courtesy Photo) COVER STORY FAQ Rogers Short Film Festival WHEN — March 4-6; doors open at 3 p.m. March 4; 11:45 a.m. March 5; and noon March 6 WHERE — Arkansas Public Theatre at the Victory in downtown Rogers COST — $15-$20 day pass; $36-$48 festival pass; $90 all access pass INFO — 631-8988 or arkansas- publictheatre.org/tickets See Short Films Page 4