LA GRANDE — The turnout to the La Grande Summer Film Project’s opening mixer was small but dedicated. After much discussion, it was decided that a project focusing on the ongoing wildfire season would commence production.

Two weeks later on Aug. 16, La Grande’s HQ hosted the world premiere of their efforts’ result: a 10-minute short titled “Smoke Gets in Your Eyes.”

Throughout the film, footage of firefighters at work is intercut with the fires’ aftermath as seen across Eastern Oregon, as well as interviews with locals expressing their concerns about the effects. Also appearing throughout is an audio interview with an engine chief, who speaks to life as a firefighter.

The music is ominous and droning, the edit is relaxed but not tired. Stop-motion effects are used for the title sequence, which adds nice visual variety. Not that it was boring to look at otherwise: Watching Oregon transformed into a blackened wasteland is arresting enough. Its scope is perhaps small in terms of ideas, but for two weeks’ work from four people busy with other things, the final product is relatively ambitious.

If you missed the premiere, you can watch “Smoke Gets in Your Eyes” for yourself by going to the Eastern Oregon Film Festival’s website, eofilmfest.com, and searching “Summer Film Project.”

While there, check out the slate of films set to screen Oct. 17-19 in La Grande at the festival proper — passes are already available for purchase. And be sure to watch this space for reviews of some of the films as the big event nears.