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The annual screening of short films vying for an Oscar win on Feb. 26, kicks off Friday at ShowRoom Cinema, located at 707 Cookman Ave in the city’s art district.

The local boutique theater has exclusively screened the Academy Award nominated shorts for the past five years. They include those in Live Action, Animation and Documentary categories.

“This year the two week run of the short films will be the only offerings all week, as many of the  audiences want to see each of the films in the three categories,’ co owner Nancy Sabino said. The nation is well represented with four films in the Documentary category and three in Animation. 

The ShowRoom opened April 2009 at 707 Cookman Avenue. Nancy Sabino and co owner Michael Sodano [at right] are film industry veterans with more than 25 years experience in creative communications for corporate productions. The art house cinema runs a roster of critically acclaimed independent, classic, foreign, family, and festival-winning films. The venue also hosts live performances, workshops, seminars, and mixed media presentations.

“We’re pleased to present the Oscar Shorts again,” said Sodano. “This annual event is a significant example of our vision for The ShowRoom Cinema, presenting provocative and engaging entertainment for all of Monmouth County.”

Along with the screening, The ShowRoom is running an Enter Your Ballot contest, giving viewers a chance to pick the film they think will win the golden statue. Winners will receive free ShowRoom passes.

For a complete listing and synopses of all the films being screened, visit theshowroomap.com.

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