Future Shorts Short Film Festival

Shuichi Okita, director of the bum-numbingly long A Story of Yonosuke, might learn a thing or two from the films being screened at 3331 Arts Chiyoda this weekend. Pithiness is a virtue in Future Shorts, a touring film festival where many of the flicks clock in at under 10 minutes. The latest program includes films from Oscar-nominated Swedish director Patrik Eklund and Rodney Ascher, best known for his recent The Shining-themed documentary, Room 237. However, the highlight promises to be Cutter Hodierne's award-winning Fishing Without Nets, which gives a Somali perspective on the country's piracy problems. Films are screened with both English and Japanese subtitles, and you can get some mulled wine while you watch for ¥300 a cup. Email makiko@e06.itscom.net for advance reservations.