Sundance 2008 is here!

Utah has just entered the best part of the winter. January in this state means ample snow for skiing and snowshoeing and, of course, the Sundance Film Festival. While I'm cynical about the growing popularity of the festival in terms of celebrity-gawkers rather than film-goers and too many movies about dysfunctional, but quirkily endearing families, it is still a showcase of great independent film and great cultural event to have in this state. I'll be staying mostly in Salt Lake City for screenings this year, doing the wait-list thing and avoiding the movie star vehicles that will likely end up at the local megaplex in the coming months. One thing I've learned about Sundancing over the years: There are some pretty terrible dramatic features every year, but I've never come across a bad documentary. While some are certainly more engrossing than others, they are a safer bet for enjoyable viewing.

Tonight: Under the Bombs

The movie is set (and was filmed during) the Israeli-Lebanese fighting of 2006, with the main character Zelna, returning home to search for her family during the conflict and the taxi driver who agrees to drive her.

I'll be posting short reviews of the movies I see, so check back daily.