Epic Lounge showing 3 short films

DOWNEY - Three short films directed and produced by a group of independent local filmmakers will be screened this Sunday at the Epic Lounge. The free event will serve as the official premiere of "Loveland," the latest film by artist Polaris Castillo, who may be best known locally for his "Balloonhead" documentary that was screened in Downey in 2012.

Besides "Loveland," also being screened Sunday are "Windmill" and "Effusion." The films were created by a group of young, ambitious filmmakers who call themselves Sweet Nightmares.

Each of the films was filmed in Downey, Norwalk and surrounding areas, and are about 10-15 minutes in length.

"Windmill" tells the story of a mother who is afraid to go outside for unknown reasons. The film is Sweet Nightmares' first production and examines whether the woman's fear is legitimate.

Production on "Windmill" began last March and lasted until September.

"Effusion" is a psycho-sexual thriller. Writer and producer Matt Landsman describes the film as a "psychedelic exploration of the mind and body."

"Loveland" is a whimsical, surreal love story about a construction worker who also fixes broken hearts. Castillo said the story idea came to him while he was sitting in freeway traffic last year.

Sunday's event is free and begins with a reception at 6 p.m. The first screening is at 7.

"As filmmakers, you just want people to watch your films," said Castillo, who lives in South Gate. "We're hoping a lot of people come out and enjoy the films."

The Epic Lounge is at 8239 2nd St. in downtown Downey.

********** Published: Jan. 23, 2014 - Volume 12 - Issue 41