Nobody would show his films, "trop chiants" (too dreary) they said. That's how Pierre Merejkowsky came up with the name of his 'festival des films chiants' which takes place in Paris whenever he fancies, (roughly once a year), and lasts for as long as he, and not the viewers, can take it, (between several days and several weeks).

A big TV set on the counter of a hospitable bar and a handheld video camera is all it takes to show films to a mixed audience of bemused regular drinkers or cinema buffs. Guests like Fabienne Issartel or Emmanuel Deswarte bring in tapes and cheer with the noisy crowd that Pierre and co-organiser Frederic stir up and provoke to the point of participation.

The underground film scene in Paris is vibrant; distributors are bypassed and new means of showing films have been found. The local TV Bocal, without a frequency, makes its way through different venues, bars and restaurants whenever it has completed a new issue. La Revue Eclair produces 'les thés videos' (the tea videos) in the apartment of its writers on every first and last Sunday afternoon of each month. Press the digicode, step inside, make yourself comfortable and choose which video you want to see from Corine Miret and Stephane Olry's selection. The scene has its free newsletter, Le 101, to be found in assorted galleries and bars.

Frederic Madre [frederic@pleine-peau.com]