“The Film Lounge” is a television series that showcases short, independent films by Iowa artists. Each
one-hour episode includes a collection of short films (2-20 minutes in length) that represent a range of
artistic forms, including documentary, animated and experimental work. The episodes also feature
interviews with the contributing filmmakers plus spotlight features that highlight the importance and impact
of film across Iowa. The series is produced by Iowa PBS in partnership with the Iowa Arts Council and
Produce Iowa. More information can be found at thefilmlounge.org.

Program

“Lesana” is a beautiful piece filmed in Riga, Latvia that highlights the depth and intricacies of composer McKenzie Stubbert’s work. It was choreographed by Lily Skove, directed by TJ Hellmuth, and produced by Russ Curry, Coralville.

“Leah’s Year” is the examination of a disabled woman’s struggles during the pandemic. Created by Antoinette Lavalle, Des Moines.

“From the Void” is about a son being taken, and a father desperately searching for him, but this isn’t your ordinary abduction. Something strange has happened, and it isn’t of this world. Created by Michael Minard, Waterloo.

Spotlight feature on the newly restored Varsity Cinema

“El Principe Azul” is a short documentary about the journey of Diego Lopez from the gang-ridden streets of Honduras to the United States. Created by Matthew Williams, Dubuque.

“Loveblind” is a music video where the storyline can be thought of as a film-within-a-film-within-a-film. It’s intended as a metaphor for the roles people (and those around them) play at the end of a relationship.  Produced by Emile Lasca, Burlington.