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OPEN / CLOSE (Narrative Shorts #5)

In the aftermath of trauma, where consent is too often ignored and pain goes unspoken, this collection of narrative short films explores the difficult journey toward reclaiming control. Through nuanced storytelling and satisfying redemption, these films reveal the resilience required to confront past wounds and reclaim one’s own narrative.

In this program


Randy as Himself

Directed by Margaret Miller

A Hollywood production crew comes to West Texas to recreate the grisly murder of a local woman. Using locals to reenact the crime, reality TV meets reality in this bizarre romantic comedy about the (show) business of murder.

Tame

Directed by Will Schneider

Near the end of a long shift, a stressed diner waitress has to serve an especially difficult customer.

Recesses

Directed by Dylan Trupiano

A midwestern elementary school secretary waits with a student to be picked up after being disciplined for an “inappropriate” drawing.

LIKE STARS

Directed by Kali Bailey

A North Korean asylum seeker and an asylum attorney—both unseen women—who in the face of intense pressures learn that surviving isn’t enough.

Bugaboo

Directed by Benjamin Morehead

A woman gets revenge on the man who wronged her with the help of a cursed doll.

Berta

Directed by Lucía Forner

Berta wants Alex to understand the harm he caused her years ago and will do whatever it takes to explain it to him.

After What Happened at the Library

Directed by Syra McCarthy

Inspired by my viral true story.

Akita the drag queen hasn’t left her apartment in days. Her inboxes overflow with messages of praise, concern, and… death threats?

She lets in a film crew and recounts to a reporter about how Nazis stormed her Drag Story Hour.

After the interview, Akita breaks down.

In one final flashback: After the Nazis leave, Akita returns to complete the Drag Story Hour reading for the children and families.

Dates & Times

The Independent Picture House

September 27, 2025
4:25 pm