From the Hideout
I'm writing this from the Hideout, since there's no room for me in the screening room for the 2nd AFS Members Showcase, but I can hear the applause when each film finishes.  We got capacity crowds for both and nearly all the filmmakers were here to answer questions.

After this Q & A, I may go to a party or two, but try not to stay out late. I haven't seen any features yet, just shorts.  The program with Mr. P, Reel Shorts 1, was actually really fantastic.  The best for me, besides Mr. P, natch, was this Australian film Crossbow.  Very disturbing story of a teenage kid driven to the brink by his disinterested parents, as narrated by his unseen neighbor, but done with an unexpectedly distinct voice and sense of place. And, it didn't hurt that it was beautifully shot on 35mm.  God bless those countries that give major support to thier young filmmaking talents.

I managed to scarf down dinner at the Texas Film Commission's annual reception at the Iron Cactus, since I knew I was gonna be at the Hideout for a long 4-hour chunk of time.  Got to catch up with a few more people there, both out-of-towners and locals I hadn't seen in a while.

Man, I'm kinda tired.  I've been waking up too early the last few days - but that's what the festival adrenaline does to me.  Gotta just ride with it.