Salons a way to learn more about movies

The Sidewalk Salons — presented by Sidewalk Film Festival — are a series of free networking and educational events held on the first Tuesday of every month in the side room at Rojo on Highland Avenue.

The long-running series has covered topics including location scouting, film music and filmmaking techniques, as well as fun subjects like movie trivia. Everyone is welcome, according to Kiwi Lanier, Sidewalk education and outreach coordinator.

“I think one of the biggest misconceptions about the Salon is that you have to already be a filmmaker to attend,” she said.

“We also welcome folks who aren’t necessarily filmmakers but like movies and want to know more about production,” Lanier said.

The next event, on May 7 at 7 p.m., will feature a presentation by UAB history professor Mariah Hepworth, who will take attendees on a journey through American history as presented in war movies. Networking begins at 6 p.m.

Rojo has been happy to host the Salons for nearly the entire 17-year lifespan of the bar, according to co-owner Laney DeJonge.

“We have loved supporting Sidewalk over the years as it has grown into a world-class film festival,” she said.

The event is free and open to the public. For more information, go to sidewalkfest.com or visit the festival on Facebook.