Grand Center, at the midtown intersection of Art and Life (or Grand and Olive, if you prefer), continues to expand. Long a hub for music and theater, in recent years the neighborhood has become a place to enjoy fine art and movies.

Film is the focus of a free event Thursday evening at 7 at the Kranzberg Arts Center, in the renovated Woolworth’s Building. “Grand Center Shorts” comprises five mini movies that capture the spirit of the St. Louis neighborhood in documentary, narrative, experimental and animated form.

The films are:

* “The Renaissance of the River City,” by Carson Minow is a short documentary on the cultural and social restoration of St. Louis City;

* “The Watcher,” by Richard Taylor  chronicles the comings and goings of everyday people through the eyes of a Gargoyle that sits high above on the cornice of one of the Grand Center buildings;

* “Urban Motions,” by Zlatko Cosic is an experimental movie taking the audience through an abstract journey using dance and the architecture of Grand Center to tell the story;

* “Coda,” by Kenny Kinds is a story of the things that drive us; how memories actively shape us every day as experienced through the eyes of character, Wes Journey;

* “Rumor Central”  by Joe Millitzer and Katie Johannes Millitzer is an animated film noir that combines hand drawn illustration and computer animation. Two short musical numbers and a vivid cast of characters add to the humorous tale of mystery and misunderstanding.

The directors will be on hand to answer questions. Admission is free, but reservations are required by calling  314-289-1517.