Date Night • Let's Fall In Love & Eden

Tonight, I offer you up a bit of love for date night. The first is an Italian short by director Pappi Corsicato that seems to get some inspiration from Cole Porter. In 1928, the song "Let's Do It, Let's Fall in Love" premiered on the Broadway stage in the musical 'Paris'. As an instrumental version of the song plays in the background of the 3 minute film, two young men walk through a mall, sharing more than just a moment. Unfortunately, love is an emotion that doesn't always fly solo. Some are taught that fear goes with their love. This is 'Let's Fall in Love'.

Our next short film was written by Jason A. Rostovsky and directed by Sean Willis. Together, they also acted as producers for 'Eden'. The story takes place in the future, and looks at the relationship of Adam (Devon Graye) and Everett (Derek Stusynski), two young men trapped in a world where everyone is telling them there is something wrong with them. It is with the help of a nurse (Mary Mackey) that they learn love is the answer. This is 'Eden'.

Have a great weekend!

Teens Like Phil • Short Film

I recently watched a short film, and was just so moved by it, I knew I'd have to share it with you all. 'Teens Like Phil' was written and directed by Dominic Haxton & David Rosler, with additional writer Cherise Pascual. In 20 minutes of film, we are told a complete story of a young LGBT teen, as he sees his family treat gays as disposable, and the world around him become increasingly violent and aggressive. Phil is trying to find his way in the world, with parents who would rather ignore a gay brother in need than reach out to him. His best friend, Adam, is struggling with abuse in his own home, leading him to lash out, hurting Phil in order to regain some power of his own. Quickly, tension and pain begin to escalate. This is 'Teens Like Phil'.

I thought Adam Donovan as Phil and Jake Robbins as Adam were particularly effective in their roles, showing a real depth to their characters. I thought this short was excellent, exposing the issue of discrimination and bullying is a layered issue, one that often needs to be dealt with on many levels. And that the world can do with more love, and less fear, hate and rage. That just might make the journey a little bit easier for 'Teens Like Phil'.

Fright Night • Playing in Darkness

Above: Scenes from 'Playing in Darkness'

As we prepare for the Halloween season, I thought it only right to add a little scare to your date! Maybe you can sit a little closer to someone hot, and hold on tight. Imagine the possibilities. This is 'Playing in Darkness', a short film by writer/director/star Alexander Roman. The short also features Ursula Vari as Bree, and Kenneth-Michael Glass, Matthew Hannon, Brandon Tyler Jones and Konstantin Vrotsos as a couple of frat boys looking for a good time. Alexander plays Benjamin, a character who likes to play hard, and make the best deal he can. 'Playing in Darkness' was an official selection for the 2010 Burbank International Film Festival. I can see why, with a cast of hot boys, and a story involving drugs, alcohol, and a very bad boy... Please enjoy 'Playing in Darkness'.

Have a great weekend!

Boys & Girls Date Night • Cappuccino & Embracing Butterflies

For this evening's date night, I thought I would offer a short for the boys, and one for the girls, too! Our fir for the night, 'Cappuccino', was written and directed by Tamer Ruggli, and stars Anton Ciurlia, Benjamin Décosterd, and Maruela Biedermann. It is the story of a young man coming to terms with his feelings for a school friend, and to communicate with his over-the-top mother. It is such a charming film, It is French, but has subtitles. I hope you enjoy 'Cappuccino'.

The second feature for tonight is 'Embracing Butterflies', a 2009 short film written and directed by Karen Davidsen. It features Jaroslava Adamsova, Laura Baranik, Remi Clarke, Sarah Dunn, and Kveta Fialova. As Louise feeds the ducks and sees young couples in love in the park, she also runs into Anna, which allows Louise to take a stroll down memory lane, when Louise and Anna were in grade school together. Please enjoy 'Embracing Butterflies'.

Have a great night, and an even better weekend!