The Can' in New York City Cuts a Path to Some of The Greatest Short Films Around

Manhattan's Lower East Side may be experiencing the facelift of a lifetime, with new high-rises and boutiques popping up every month, but the winds of artistic citizenship still blow strong here -- perhaps most noticeably through 'The Can', a new monthly short film showcase that is fast becoming a fixture in the neighborhood and on the calendar for artists living and working New York City.

New York, NY (PRWEB) April 28, 2008

Manhattan's Lower East Side may be experiencing the facelift of a lifetime, with new high-rises and boutiques popping up every month, but the winds of artistic citizenship still blow strong here - perhaps most noticeably through 'The Can', a new monthly short film showcase that is fast becoming a fixture in the neighborhood and on the calendar for artists living and working New York City.

Running on the last Tuesday of every month, 'The Can' debuted in the fall of 2007 and has since showcased incredible short films by some of the most talented, young directors from all over the world. Organized by The Smalls, the online curator of independent short film, and the creative agencies devilfish and Angry Ant Media, screenings run at a brisk 45 minutes to an hour, showing up to eight creative short films that will satisfy, entertain, and inspire even the most jaded filmgoers.

While the film community represents a large portion of the audience for 'The Can', the event has also attracted significant interest from advertisers, broadcasters and production companies. In fact, the event has become a calling card for filmmakers and production companies looking for new talent. This year, 'The Can' organizers predict that the event will draw even larger crowds from audiences of all interests as it matures in 2008.

"We're getting noticed because we showcase really strong films and are thereby making this event a sure bet for anyone who wants to enjoy, or who is in search to commission, work from really talented directors," says The Can curator and identity contributor Maria Grund. "There are a lot of talented filmmakers out there, but finding them can be difficult for those looking for fresh, new voices in broadcasting or advertising. Thankfully we have made this easier by establishing a direct link between talented directors and commissioners of content through creative exchanges like The Smalls and The Can."

Ms. Grund, who is a contributing writer at The Smalls and an award-winning screenwriter herself has for years been an active supporter of new voices in film. Born in Sweden but with an MFA from New York University, she has been one of the curators of The Can since the event launched in 2007. While Ms. Grund has her home in Stockholm and London, she has overseen each event in New York and has been one of the driving forces behind its success and international appeal.

Emceed by Angry Ant Media Creative Director and co-curator Nobi Nakanishi, the event has screened films from more than 40 talented, emerging filmmakers from more than 15 countries around the world, including the 2008 Academy award nominated short film, "I Met The Walrus" by Josh Raskin. Between 5 and 8 filmmakers from all over the world have their films screened each month at the White Rabbit Bar on Houston Street, before an audience of fellow filmmakers, production, broadcast and ad agency reps -- and of course anyone else who wants to see quality shorts.

With no cover charge, and beer and well drinks for just $4 each, this is a steal in terms of prime entertainment value. Filmmakers can also opt to have their films added to a subscription DVD, which is forwarded to broadcasters and advertisers looking for new talent - free, targeted promotion that can otherwise be hard to come by.

The Can this month runs April 29th @ 8pm. Entry is free and drinks start as low as $4. For updates on screened films and other information about upcoming events, go to http://www.thesmalls.com/thecan or call (646) 596-8186.

About the sponsors of The Can:
The Smalls http://www.thesmalls.com
The Smalls is a curator of independent short film, committed to the discovery and promotion of new talent through its website, events and competitions. Here to inspire, The Smalls offers a medium where emerging talent can display work not only to fellow members of the contemporary creative community, but also to subscription members in the broadcast, film and advertising industry. http://www.TheSmalls.com aims to support a constructive exchange on creative work and create opportunities for its members to get their work commissioned.

devilfish http://www.devilfishonline.co.uk
devilfish is a content branding agency, working with leading traditional and non-traditional content providers in the UK and beyond, helping them to create innovative and rewarding ways to communicate with their audiences.

Angry Ant Media http://www.angryantmedia.com
Angry Ant Media is a creative agency providing writing and directing services for advertisers, production companies and private clients. Its writers and directors have produced award-winning material for some of the world's most prominent brands. Angry Ant Media is located in New York City, but works with clients all over the world.

For more information about The Can, contact Nobi Nakanishi at nobi @ angryantmedia.com (917) 553-9949 or Mira Bajagic at mira @ thesmalls.com

+44 20 7240 9222

###