A documentary short about singer/songwriter Elliott Smith, entitled "Strange Parallel" and directed by Steven Hanft, will debut at this year's CMJ Film Fest, scheduled for November 4-7 in New York City.

Hanft, who has directed videos for such artists as Beck, Jon Spencer Blues Explosion, the Cure and Beth Orton, filmed much of the half-hour documentary -- which was originally titled "Elegant Mess" -- earlier this year while Smith was working on his current album, "XO," in his Portland, Oregon, hometown.

In addition, an August performance by Smith at the Luna Lounge in New York is featured in the documentary and the concert was specifically staged in order to capture live footage for the film.

Parallel" also incorporates interviews shot with several of the singer's cohorts and compatriots, including "Good Will Hunting" director Gus Van Sant, as Smith penned several songs for the "Hunting" soundtrack, including the Oscar-nominated "Miss Misery.

Strange

Parallel" will have its premiere screening at the Sony State Theater in the Virgin Megastore in New York's Times Square on November 4 at 4:30 p.m.