Arena Theater Short Film Festival

Movie Magic: The 2nd Arena Theater Short Film Festival
November 8-10, 2024
A review by Gary Levenson-Palmer and Carol Wilder

(Click here to read the full review)

Arena Theater’s 2nd Annual Short Film Festival left an indelible impression on film enthusiasts near and far. Running Friday through Sunday, Nov. 8-10, the festival’s six programs showcased diversity and artistry of short films from around the world. In just its second year, the festival has earned international recognition, making its mark on the film festival circuit.

Friday Evening: A Stellar Kickoff with “Close to Home”
The festival opened on a high note Friday evening with “Close to Home,” a collection of shorts celebrating local stories and talents. The turnout was so enthusiastic that additional seating had to be arranged—a rare occurrence in the theater’s storied history.

Saturday’s Programs: An Emotional Journey
Saturday offered three film programs, each transporting the audience to new worlds and perspectives. “Shorts from Afar,” featured six films from international filmmakers.
The “LOL” program delivered memorable laughs. including “Night Session,” a comedic tour-de-force that had the entire theater in stitches.
Saturday evening’s final program, “New Visions: Live Media Experimental Shorts,” added a thought-provoking layer to the festival, presenting onscreen and live action.

Sunday: A Grand Finale of Thought-Provoking Films
Sunday’s screenings were the perfect high point of an unforgettable weekend. “Creatures Featured” introduced a slate of animal-centered shorts, and “Community Action” featured impactful shorts focused on activism and social justice.

Arena Theater’s 2nd Short Film Festival was an exhilarating weekend that captured the power of cinema to entertain, inspire, and connect us. With such a successful second year, it’s clear the festival has become a beloved event in the community, one that we look forward to for years to come.

 

See you at the 2025 festival in November!