LAYTON -- From Elvis and Jimmy Chunga, to chickens and a hillbilly band, the audience was kept laughing even between films at the Sixth Annual Gangrene Film Festival. Short comedies from local independent filmmakers were shown Sept. 9 at the Ed Kenley Amphitheater. The event was hosted by comedian Nate Peck. The evening started off with a local group of square dancers performing while the audience collected their free popcorn and drinks and nestled into their seats. Peck made a grand entrance, entering the stage from an outhouse promoting this year's theme "Six Pack."

The festival was divided into two portions: the General Session, which was more family appropriate, and the Late Session, which contained more violent comedies.

The themes of the films ranged anywhere from rock videos and vampires to shaved eyebrows and Halo 2 addicts. Each film was definitely one of a kind.

"The number one goal is just making people laugh," said Craig Nybo, one of the founders of the festival.

Stephen Fonnesbeck, a huge fan of Gangrene, traveled all the way from Maryland just to see it, "I wouldn't miss it for the world. I am a sucker for a good laugh, and this is the best place to get one."

Most fans, however, did not have to travel so far.

"It was funny; it was good; liked it; enjoyed it. I'll come again," Davis County resident, Tom Powell said of the festival.

Audience member Alex Walton comes to the festival to get inspiration. "I'm sure I'll be coming back next year and if possible I'd like to get a film in here."

For anyone wondering how to get started, director Denver Robbins gives the advice, "Get a camera and make as many pieces as you can."

Director Brandon Smith also recommends just getting out and doing it. "If you're passionate enough about making films, they'll happen."

Craig Nybo, like most of the artists involved, got his start by making home videos in his backyard.

"Any good filmmaker I think has a closet full of crap they made when they were kids, but you only get better by making films and improving on what you did the last time."

Debbie Wheeler, director of Yellow Graffiti also advises, "Don't let yourself stress; just keep it fun."

"The festival is all for laughs, all for the crowd," said Craig Nybo, "that's why we only offer an audience choice award."

Audience choice awards have yet to be announced. However, the first ever New Find of the Year Award was given to Khohei Kawamat, for his films "The Hairs" and "Here Comes Private Investi-gator Kengo Koshiyama."

"I was laughing so hard there were tears streaming down my face," said Rebecca Lopez of Kawamat's films.

"I usually bring eye drops as my contacts tend to get dry, but I certainly didn't need them here."

Although the directors portrayed different stories and backgrounds, they all came together with one common goal: make 'em laugh.

For more information on the festival go to www.gan

greneproductions.com

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