Things to Do

Thursday Night Film Fun

Lots of interesting independent films are coming to Washington this summer, and tomorrow—Thursday, May 24—there are two chances to see some of them.

At Grand Central (2447 18th St., NW), a new bar in Adams Morgan, the SILVERDOCS film festival is hosting a preview party to screen selections from this year’s sure-to-be-excellent event. The annual festival—showing some of the country’s best independent documentaries—runs June 12 through 17 at Silver Spring’s AFI Silver Theatre and Cultural Center. Until then, you can satisfy your film lust with this sneak peak and free drinks—plus enter to win festival passes and more. 6:30 to 9 pm; free. Call (301) 495-6776 for more information.

Then, over at the AFI Silver (8633 Colesville Rd., Silver Spring; 301-495-6720), check out the cream of the crop from the 48 Hour Film Project. Judges picked the best from entries in the two-day filming madness—and I have to say, I’ve been impressed with some of the clips I’ve seen. For example, check out “Seasonal Disorder,” impressively shot in one long take. Most of the films are five minutes or less, and clearly the teams were both talented and having a lot of fun. Two showings, 7 and 9:30 pm. $9.25.