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With movie tickets costing more than ever — $11 at the BAM Rose Cinemas and $9.50 at the Cobble Hill Cinema just to name a few — it’s no surprise that Brooklynites are staying home for more of their post-holiday, budget-conscious entertainment needs.

Beginning Saturday, Jan. 5, WNET/Channel 13, the local PBS affiliate, will be making it that much easier with “Reel 13,” a series featuring a short film, a classic and an independent feature every Saturday night.

“What we really wanted to do was highlight different independent films and create a place for them on the dial,” said Executive Producer — and Park Sloper — John DeNatale. “By showing independents that have never been broadcast, we are giving our viewers a chance to see cutting edge film that they wouldn’t otherwise get to see.”

And if you’re watching from the borough, you might also get to see some of your neighbors. Kicking off the series will be “American Wake,” an independent film about two men whose family obligations are at odds with their own plans in life that stars DUMBO resident Sam Amidon (pictured) as Niall, a fiddler whose father wants him to move to Ireland and leave behind his musical career, girlfriend and life.

On Feb. 2, the indie feature will be “Manito,” a film shot entirely on a hand-held camera that stars up-and-coming Williamsburg native Franky G. that Ana Ramos, the series’ curator, called “electrifying.”

Each week’s programs will also have the benefit of viewer input. According to DeNatale, fans who visit the station’s Web site each week will select the short films. And with no end date in sight — “ ‘Reel 13’ will be every Saturday night from here until the end of time” DeNatale said — that means plenty of chances to see exactly what you want, and to save that $11 for Jujyfruits, popcorn and SnoCaps.

©2008 Community Newspaper Group