Short films pack a long-lasting punch at the Black Maria Film Festival, where a five-minute movie can leave you pondering for days. Returning for its 36th year, the festival showcases a dynamic selection of international filmmakers, including Richmond’s Ying-Fang Shen with In The Waves, which was inspired by her 2014 pregnancy. The longest movie in the fest is 15 minutes, but each is a complete experience, from the dreamy animation of Mr. Sand and the raw humanity of How Do You Raise a Black Child? to the whimsical Chateau au Go Go, a movie about the images printed on wine corks.
Friday, June 23. $7-10, 8pm. The Paramount Theater, 215 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. 979-1333.