Glasgow Film News - March, 2006

First up, something we missed in February. Last month saw a one-off screening of 'One Life Stand', a great example of pioneering Scottish film-making, at the GFT. You probably missed it, but don't worry, it's just been released on DVD and is available from www.onelifestand.co.uk. It focuses on a Glasgow single mum and her 18 year-old son, telling an unusual story that twists and turns in unexpected directions, and builds to a powerful and unforgettable conclusion. Shot completely on black and white digital video, it sets an example for all budding film-makers, showing just what can be achieved on a next-to-nothing budget with a little imagination. Well worth hunting down, you can find the full review on the Skinny website.

This month sees Scottish Screen's annual student film festival taking place in Glasgow at the CCA. Featuring the work of students from all over Scotland, Scottish Students On Screen rewards films in six categories, including documentary, animation and music video, as well as technical and audience awards, chosen from over 130 submissions. Primarily aimed at students and teachers, but open to all, the day includes workshops and careers advice from industry professionals, as well as being a great opportunity to meet and be provoked by like-minded creatives from around the country. Find out more at www.scottishscreen.com/ssos.

Michael Haneke's 'Hidden', released in January and regarded by many (including The Skinny) as essential, intelligent and relevant cinema, was ridiculously overlooked in the Best Foreign Film category at the Oscars this month. Its a film that polarises opinion, but to not even be nominated is doing the film a major injustice. To make up for this gross misjudgment on the part of the Academy, the discerning film-goer would do well to get down to the GFT mid-March and see it. Living up to its title, 'Hidden' keeps its secrets closely guarded, and never fails to provoke post-viewing discussion and argument. For those who like to think, it's brain food of the highest order.