Shorts Program 9: Erotic Tales

Running time: N/A

About seven years ago, German film producer Regina Ziegler commissioned a series of short films titled Erotic Tales. In that time, notable filmmakers from around the world have tackled the broad subject of the erotic, including Americans Bob Rafelson, Susan Seidelman, and Hal Hartley. Cinequest is proud to present three of the newest editions in this series, including two filmmakers from previous festivals, Jos Stelling (No Planes, No Trains, Cinequest, 2000) and Petr Zelenka (Buttoners, Cinequest, 1999). From Germany, Bernd Heiber's The Night Nurse is the story of a flustered policeman with a toothache and a hospitalized prisoner to guardÉthen he meets the night nurse. It was supposed to be his night off! The Gas Station, from the Netherlands, takes us through the voyeuristic behavior we all sometimes partake of during the boredom of stop-and-go traffic. Mix in little competitive maneuvers for space and position with the beautiful woman one lane over, and the hook is set. The mirror is just an excuse. Petr Zelenka returns to Cinequest with Powers. A cabaret magician discovers he possesses actual supernatural power. Controlling these powers, however, proves elusive. Ironically, his magic act as well as his love life suffers as a result. Reviewed by Bill Maxey.