These films are made with little money, but lots of passion. Facilitated by the rise of digital technology, the micro-budgeted “wave” of films which has grown in the past decade features a wide gamut of styles and genres, with a refreshingly high number of female and minority writers, directors, producers, and cinematographers. Notably, the micro-budget scene has embraced the Internet and new tech
nology, both in its subject matter and its approach to film production, distribution, and exhibition. Keeping with this highly contemporary, even progressive, approach, we collaborate with two innovative internet-based organizations to set-up our screenings: Simple Machine and No Budge. Run by independent filmmakers Zach Weintraub and Nandan Rao (Simple Machine) and Kentucker Audley (No Budge), these organizations strive to help independent filmmakers connect directly with audiences through pop-up screenings, artist-to-exhibitor programming, and curated online film series. The films we focus on – and which Simple Machine and No Budge champion – often do not have distribution deals or have been overlooked by major film festivals, despite their excellence. Our goal is to bring these films to an audience of young filmgoers – students who might be interested in filmmaking or the arts in general – in a lively intellectual environment. Screenings will often be accompanied by Q & A sessions with the filmmakers, who can provide personal insights into independent filmmaking’s present and future.
