The Angelika Film Center in Dallas was buzzing with excitement and energy at the 46th annual USA Film Festival held last week. It started on Thursday, April 21st with several screenings, events, and programs, with guests and filmmakers from all over the world in attendance, and ended on Sunday, April 24th with a screening of “Love & Friendship.”
With a variety of short films, feature films, student and animation projects, it gave filmmakers and movie lovers of all kinds a chance to geek out, blend in with those of the same passions and soak up the entertainment.
I was able to attend the Short Film Narrative I program, a collection of short films from all over the world that earned a spot in the festival. Seven shorts were shown, “Where We Begin,” “Walden Pink,” “Squeeze,” “Porcupine,” “Cronos,” “Right Person for the Job,” and “The Schoolboy.” The collection was internationally diverse, ranging from France, England, and the US. The writers and directors of the films were in attendance, and a Q&A was held afterwards. Not only were audience members asking questions but directors as well, so in this case, everyone was a sponge, soaking up diverse artistry and learning from all styles of storytelling. A short time proved to be very worthwhile not only for viewing but also for discussing.
The Angelika has always provided a unique atmosphere to make it possible for viewers, directors, and those in the film industry to network and interact in the most casual and calm atmosphere.
I also attended the closing event of the festival on Sunday, a screening of “Love & Friendship,” Whit Stillman’s most recent feature. Originally a Jane Austen short story, “Love & Friendship” tells the lighthearted tale of the manipulative and witty Lady Susan, who takes the audience on an unpredictable adventure of life, love, and of course, matchmaking.
A packed house, Whit Stillman was in attendance as well. A Q&A was held afterwards, and audience members, those fans of Stillman, Austen, or movies in general, were able to ask questions and learn about Stillman’s process and hear stories of the making of the film.
All in all, the USA Film Festival was a blast and proved to be a profitable outlet for those interested in films, working in the film industry, or showcasing their own.
