Ten Years of Microcinema, Presented by Microcinema International
In 1996, Microcinema began presenting short films and videos from around the world in the backroom of a cyber café. Since that time, they have screened over 1500 short works from all corners of the globe - in microcinemas and sundry theaters in over 43 countries.
1996 saw the very beginnings of the popular video revolution. The introduction of the Hi-8 format, which was small and compact, made good quality video accessible to the general consumer. Over the years, computers and software further revolutionized the art form by allowing for relatively inexpensive editing, as well as sound, motion, and graphic design. The explosion of content that resulted stimulated the re-birth of local cinema clubs - these aptly named "microcinemas" continue to grow in numbers and importance in the film and arts communities.
The last ten years has witnessed compelling shifts in short film production – conceptually and aesthetically. Independent Exposure X was created to present these trends to a contemporary audience. Houstonian Patrick Kwiatkowski and San Francisco-based Joel S. Bachar, founders of the group, have always been ‘media agnostic’ – works based on celluloid, a cellphone, hand drawn or computer generated are all considered relevant to the independent moving image arts of 1996 through 2005 and beyond. The moving image works in tonight’s program present not only 10 years of Independent Exposure but provide a glimpse of the breadth and depth of the talent that exists in the independent media community. They also offer a compelling and unique insight into a vast and diverse creative spirit existing today.
The film exhibition program at the MFAH offers moviegoers a unique venue for appreciating both classic and contemporary films. These screenings include premieres of significant new independent productions.
Films are often presented within an overall theme that focuses on a certain country or region, a specific actor or director, or a particular topic.
In conjunction with the film screenings, the museum frequently schedules appearances by media artists, critics, and scholars, whose perspectives add fresh insights.
