Saluting Shorts

Attention spans aren’t what they used to be. What with Tivo, text messaging, Hulu and social-networking sites, some people just don’t have a whole lot of time to devote to sprawling cinematic epics. That’s why, when a batch of short films rolls into town, it’s worth considering the benefits of briefer fare. Micromanage precious viewing time this weekend with the KU International Film Festival, in Woodruff Auditorium at the Kansas Union (1301 Jayhawk Boulevard, on the University of Kansas campus in Lawrence). Part of the Expresión en Corto International Film Festival, a Mexican cultural event embracing free cinema, the selected films are a feast for trilinguals, packaged in English, French and Spanish. Today kicks off the showings, with new films screened each night through Sunday. The free, all-ages festival begins at 7:30 p.m. For more information, see suaevents.com or call 785-864-7469.—Caleb Goellner

Fri., Feb. 20, 7:30 p.m.; Sat., Feb. 21, 2009