THE SKINNY ON MOVIES LAWRENCE TOPPMAN
2 valuable local film groups could use your support
The Charlotte Film Society and Charlotte Film Festival, elements crucial to Charlotte's alternative film scene, both enter important weeks as of today.
The society (www.charlottefilmsociety.org) has had a strong lineup for its Second Weekend spring series at Park Terrace Cinemas, including "Blame It On Fidel" and "Adam's Apples." That series ends with a four-day run of "All About Eve," the 1950 masterpiece about a neurotic actress and her conniving protegé.
Its famous tag line -- "Fasten your seatbelts, it's going to be a bumpy night!" -- could apply to the society, which hoped it had found a long-term home at Consolidated after a brief, ill-fitting engagement at Regal Stonecrest. But Regal has bought all Consolidated theaters, so the society will have to do business with its former partner this fall or find a new landlord.
Perhaps, if Regal and AMC turn a deaf ear, the society can strike a deal with Ballantyne Village (if it's still booking itself) or Ayrsley Grand. Maybe the Performing Arts Center can drop them into the McGlohon monthly on quiet weeks?
The Charlotte Film Festival, meanwhile, is strengthening its position as it moves into its third autumn uptown. (See www.charlottefilmfestival.org.) Organizers have issued a May 15 final deadline for features ($55 entry fee), shorts ($45) and student films ($40), and they hope to get more from this region for year three.
The fest, which has moved its dates to Sept. 25-28, scored some strong titles last year, including the Sundance documentary favorite "In the Shadow of the Moon." You'll be able to preview a couple of the 2008 shorts at a fundraiser titled "Cocktails & Glitz" June 5 at Madison's Bar and Lounge, 115 E. Fifth St. The $25 entry fee may get you a door prize and will buy access to a silent auction and live music.
