Cinematic Speed Dating

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It takes far less than five minutes to convey complex emotion, which might be why we determine compatibility with others based on first encounters. That initial reaction is a sort of vetting process that comes in particularly handy in bar environments. Say a strange guy starts chatting you up; you’ll know in a matter of moments whether you would (a) like to see him again, or (b) need to banish him from your sacred barstool circumference. This instantaneous connection with The New also lends itself to film, which is why each year the Museum of Contemporary Art presents the Optic Nerve Film Festival. No more uncomfortable squirming!

Each locally crafted, cinematic work clocks in at less than five minutes and tells some form of tale. Take Alexa Caravia’s short, Shoo: In it, a man emerges wet and barefoot from a washing machine. His general dampness and exposed tarsals thwart his every attempt at normalcy. Other shorts, such as Aiden Dillard’s abstract, kaleidoscopic work, Carnival, will please film buffs searching for absurdity. Seventeen local go-getters are flexing their film muscles Thursday night for a chance at the main prize: placement in MoCA’s permanent collection, and general bragging rights. Attend either of two screenings (7 and 9 p.m.) and have a short-lived fling with film. RSVP is a should-do: Call 305-893-6211, or e-mail rsvp@mocanomi.org. Optic Nerve is free with museum entry (five bucks for general admission).
Thu., Aug. 7, 2008