Iowa PBS presents season 8 of The Film Lounge
A person looking through a video camera

Celebrate the work of Iowa filmmakers and explore the art of filmmaking with brand-new episodes of The Film Lounge. Iowa PBS, in partnership with the Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) announced today the upcoming eighth season of its popular series that showcases short films created by Iowans. This season includes two new episodes featuring 10 short films of varying styles and subject matters as well as some special segments.

The Film Lounge: Episode 801 will premiere Monday, January 29 at 10 p.m. and be rebroadcast Saturday, February 3 at 11 p.m. on statewide Iowa PBS. Episode 802 will premiere Monday, February 5 at 10 p.m. and repeat Saturday, February 10 at 11 p.m. In addition to the broadcasts, The Film Lounge will be available to stream on demand on iowapbs.org and the PBS App.

The first episode of the season 8 The Film Lounge includes the following films and features:

  • “No Exit” weaves together carefully timed movements and slapstick routines in a two-dimensional space. Created by Auden Lincoln-Vogel, Iowa City.
  • “Parts & Pieces” follows a family’s love for rare British cars from the Triumph Motor Company that become part of the family. Created by Bruce James Bales, Des Moines.
  • “Shut the Box” is a seemingly innocent childhood game that brings a sense of being alone and trapped while exploring the lengths some would go for love or to have a family. Created by Kevin Shepherd, Brittany Benedict and Michael Huntington, Newhall.
  • A spotlight on the Oneota Film Festival held in downtown Decorah.
  • “We Tried a Long Shot” is a comedy that shows the difficulty of pulling off the shot while also accomplishing it. Created by Mike Miersen, Jacob Meade and John Miersen, Iowa City.
  • “Miss Christine — Google University” is a music video featuring the iconic Surf Ballroom that tells a story about time travel, human identity and the malleable nature of reality. Created by Christine Moad, Nichols.

The films and features in the second episode include:

  • “PACK” is an experimental documentary that strives to match the energy and artistic vision that goes into creating a work of art. Created by John Hennessy Baker, Des Moines.
  • “Carry It With Me” is a short narrative drama about one young woman picking up the pieces after a breakup. Created by Alyson O’Hara, Des Moines.
  • “Sayah” documents the struggles of a young woman navigating career decisions in a world seemingly not designed for her. Created by Hannah Rosalie Wright, Des Moines.
  • A spotlight on the Mediaverse Studios in Marengo.
  • “Alice” explores the importance of communication and intentional listening in all relationships. Created by Matthew Williams, Davenport.
  • “Blades of Betrayal” is an action short inspired by long-form Samurai stories about the heritage of Japan. Created by Paul Murphy and Gavin Smith, Indianola.

Film buffs can get a sneak peek of this year’s films during a watch party at The Varsity Cinema in Des Moines on Sunday, January 28 at 1 p.m. A Q&A with participating filmmakers will follow the screening of each episode. While the event is free and open to the public, those interested in attending are encouraged to reserve their seats on the Varsity Cinema’s website.

The Film Lounge is produced by Iowa PBS in partnership with the IEDA. Program objectives include highlighting art and experimental films by underserved Iowa artists; elevating the process of filmmaking as an art form; recognizing the contributions of filmmaking to the economic and cultural vitality of Iowa; and sharing stories important to Iowans. The Film Lounge submissions are judged by a panel on artistic originality, technical quality and level of engagement.

In addition to its statewide broadcast, Iowa PBS .1 is available to livestream on iowapbs.org/watch, pbs.org/livestream, the PBS App, Local Now, YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV. Iowa PBS programs, behind-the-scenes extras and more can be enjoyed on iowapbs.org, Facebook and YouTube. Viewers can also stream their favorite shows on demand using the PBS App, available on iOS, Android and many streaming devices.