Indie Filmmaking for Richer, for Poorer

By Scott Smith in Arts & Entertainment on Mar 23, 2006 5:18PM

While Chicago isn’t quite the moviemaking mecca that Los Angeles is, there’s no shortage of opportunities for indie filmmakers who want to show their work. One of our favorite film fests is Fast Forward (say that three times fast). Every few months or so, the guys at Fast Forward hold a filmmaking competition wherein participants are given 24 hours to make a film on a given theme (like childhood or alternative endings). The results are screened for an audience, prizes are given and a good time is had by all. Sounds great, right? One problem: the kids at Fast Forward are broke, bitches.

Sean U’Ren and Atom Paul, the minds and wallets behind Fast Forward, recently sent out an e-mail saying their upcoming spring event might be their last. While many people have been good enough to donate money for equipment and chair rentals for their events, the well has run dry on their non-profit venture.

But all is not lost! Sean and Atom are hoping to find a company willing to sponsor their semi-quarterly events. So if you’re a business (or individual with lots of spare change in your cushions) looking to support indie filmmaking, e-mail Sean (stranded at gmail.com) or visit Atom at Atomix Coffeehouse.

Chicagoist humbly suggests the Fast Forward guys start hassling some car companies since Scion seems to be all up in the indie filmmaking groove. Tonight at the 3 Penny Cinema (2424 N. Lincoln), Scion hosts Xpress Fest, a showcase for up-and-coming bands and filmmakers. Since so many directors get their start making music videos, Scion challenged film students from all over the country to submit a video treatment for songs from ten indie rock bands.

Columbia College filmmaker Henry “Konrad” Arnold was chosen as one of ten finalists for his video for “Heart and Soul” by local band Plane. Audience members will vote on the ten finalists tonight, and the top three will screen at the Scion website. Plus, there’s free beer and DJ sets from Flosstradamus. The event starts at 7:30 PM but like all Scion events, you need to RSVP at their website before you cheer on the local talent and drink of the free hooch.