Movies at the Mill returns Saturday to Downtown Easton. Ten independent short films will be screened during the seventh annual festival, which will again be held at the State Theatre.
Here are five reasons you should not miss this awesome event:
THE FILMS | Movies at the Mill showcases the best and brightest in independent short film while spotlighting the next generation of filmmakers -- most of whom who hail from right here in the Lehigh Valley. With genres ranging from animation to comedy to art house, this year's selections offer a diverse selection of cinematic cuisine. The films are: A Boy's Life, Petals of Love, Detective Trousers, Best Man Wins, The Bottle, Listen, Blindsided!, Pink Slip, Tigers in the Soup and The Girlfriend Experience. You don't have to be a film buff to appreciate the work that goes into bringing these stories to life on screen.
THE FOOD | After you are finished gorging on the cinematic fare, loosen those belts and be prepared to stuff your face with tasty snacks and treats cooked and whipped up by Easton's finest establishments, eateries and restaurants. Be a foodie, if only for a night.
THE LOCATION | Before it played host to a Beatle, a Beach Boy or Bobby Collins, the picturesque State Theatre was a movie palace from the 1930s to the 1960s. There really is no better way to spending an evening watching movies. Don't forget the popcorn.
THE SCENE | Festival chairman Gershon Hinkson said it best during a May news conference at Easton's City Hall: "People want to move here because of things like Movies at the Mill ... We are hip, we are cool and young people want to be here." This is your time to ditch the shorts and T-shirts motif and rock something suave and slick. Perhaps a blazer and a nice pair of jeans? What about a fancy tie and fedora? A monocle? Whatever you wear, Movies at the Mill is an excellent opportunity to stand out and be seen while hobnobbing with those in the know during the after-party at the Easton Intermodal Transportation Center, 123 S. Third St.
THE FILMS | OK, I cheated and listed this twice. But the art of filmmaking is the core and backbone of Movies at the Mill. By supporting the festival, you are also supporting those who striving to make their mark in the industry. Keep it local.
Movies at the Mill is 5 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 26, at the State Theatre, 453 Northampton St., Easton. Tickets cost $17. (Price of ticket includes admission to after-party.)