Screening highlights local filmmaking talent

The Crimson Film Showcase featuring local independent films will take place Tuesday night at Malone's Restaurant and Tavern, 746 Asp Ave.

The event, sponsored by Axe Body Spray, will feature the films of some OU alumni and students, including Logan Leistikow.

Leistikow, film and video studies senior, is the showcase's organizer, an Axe field representative and an up-and-comer in the world of video production.

Leistikow said he was excited about "Good Night Irene", an independent film with local roots that found national recognition at this year's Sundance Film Festival.

The film's director Sterlin Harjo, and director of photography Peter Hermes, who are former OU students, will be at the screening.

Although "Goodnight Irene" walked away from the Sundance empty handed, it has been honored by other film festivals, internationally viewed and even declared the best Oklahoma-made film by the Deadcenter Film Festival.

Another showing will feature local artist and public relations senior Dante Schmitz's music video, "Bittersweet", which Leistikow helped to co-produce.

Schmitz describes his works as a musical hybrid of jazz and folk and claimed his expertise was more in music than in film.

"The heart of the project is to get these independent films out to the public," Schmitz said.

But Schmitz said he is still excited for his album's public debut.

"It's another way to promote my album and through a different medium," Schmitz said.

But besides the creators, artists and viewers, Leistikow said Axe promotional employees would attend as well.

Leah Hill, communications senior, one of the models in the showcase, said she would be passing out edible aphrodisiacs and samples along with the other Axe Angels.

Leistikow planned on showing only Oklahoma independent films to make this a community-oriented event between creators and spectators.

"We're trying to help people realize great films are coming out in their own backyard," Leistikow said.
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