Fun for the Whole Family

Short Programs

This year the festival boasts no fewer than 20 separate programs devoted to short films -- that's programs; we're not even counting how many actual films that adds up to. Some of our favorites: "4 p.m.," a tightly constructed, polished 35mm bedroom farce about a one-night stand with political consequences. At 15 minutes, it still feels fully realized. For the less tastefully inclined, the "Rick & Steve" animated shorts examine the erotic and satirical potential of LEGOs. For example, Episode 2 packs into eight minutes this and more: RuPaul, a stop-motion circle jerk, and the return of Chuck, an HIV-positive smartass "paralyzed from the left testicle down." No sacred cows here. In the slight but fun "Boychick," a Britney-esque singer helps a teenage mensch bust a move on his dream dude. The music is part klezmer, part Backstreet, the parodic choreography eerily perfect. For the more seriously minded, there's "Rebel Rebel," about an unconventional love between a confused teenager and her emotionally stunted, middle-aged second cousin. ("4 pm": Saturday, Aug. 25, 8pm; Sunday, Aug. 26, 4:30pm; Saturday, Sept. 1, 2:15pm; Wednesday, Sept. 5, 9:30pm. "Rick & Steve the Happiest Gay Couple in All the World": Monday, Sept. 3, 7:15pm. "Boychick": Tuesday, Aug. 28, 9:45pm; Monday, Sept. 3, 4:30pm. "Rebel Rebel": Sunday, Aug. 26, 3:15pm)