We know D.C. Get our free newsletter to stay in the know.
As the weather darkens, it reminds us that it’s almost Rosebud time. That is, time for that annual festival of singular cinema by local filmmakers. As a teaser, the Rosebud Awards organizers are presenting a program of last year’s winners and nominees. Musical by Mark Schwartzbard captured the 1996 Best of Show, against strong competition. It is little more than a guy with a steel plate welded over his mouth trying to play a harmonica. But, somehow, it is much more. Ricardo Sanchez’s Popularity (pictured) is such a perfect parody of ’50s educational films that it completely sneaked up on me at first viewing. Pay attention, kids. I haven’t seen all the other works, but the good thing about a presentation like this is that if you don’t like what you’re watching, blink and something new will take its place. Other titles include Coffee, Cigarettes by Jeff Schmale, Matt Pittroff, and Jason Hubert, Houdini Speaks by Allan Rosson, Woman’s Song by John Arlotto, No Clothes On: A Day in the Life of Mr. Francois by Seth T.A. Foster, Menacing Beat Dream by Maria Kyriacou, and Call Waiting by Jamie Crausman. And don’t forget, the deadline for next year’s festival is Jan. 19. At 7:30 p.m. Friday at Rockville Arts Place, 100 East Middle Lane, Rockville. $3. (301) 309-6900; at 7 p.m. Wednesday at Borders, 18th & L Sts. NW. FREE. (202) 466-4999. (Dave Nuttycombe)