What would you do if you had Saddam Hussein laid up in the shed behind your house? What would you ask him, and how would you imagine he'd answer? We can think of a handful of good questions right off the bat, so it's unfortunate that the characters in Baghdad Texas can't think of anything to ask one of the world's most famous dictators in the middle of the Iraq War.
Austin Film Festival Capsule Review: Baghdad Texas
Austin Film Festival Capsule Review: Tenure
Happily, Mike Million’s script shows innovation and admirable restraint, resulting in a finished film that only vaguely resembles a standard commercial comedy. Charlie Thurber (played by Wilson) is trying his best to earn tenure at Grey College, where he is a well-liked but professionally underachieving English instructor. When a whipsmart new hire from Yale (Gretchen Mol) enters the mix, threatening his chances at a job for life, Charlie’s pal, anthropology professor Jay Hadley ( David Koechner) eagerly steps in to help sabotage her career.
Austin Film Festival: Tuesday Film Picks
There are lots of goodies on tap tonight, from the festival's most outrageous documentary to a Chinese historical epic. Docs are definitely on show, starting with Floored, about the traders on Chicago's stock exchange. Already one of the most interesting jobs in America, we're expecting some memorable characters up in here.
AFF Capsule Review: Youth in Revolt
Michael Cera’s birdlike awkwardness is perfect for the part of gawky, virginal nerd Nick Twisp, a 16-year-old-who finds love on a trailer park vacation and decides to do whatever it takes to hang on to it. Think Fight Club for nerdy virgins. And if that last sentence didn’t sell you, just trust us—it’s funny.
Austin Film Festival: Saturday Film & Panel Picks
The first weekend day of Austin Film Festival is jam-packed with goodies, and since there’s only a small chance that true fest-fatigue has begun to set in yet, you’re in the perfect position to enjoy a healthy array of films, panels and people-watching. Follow your bliss, of course, but here are a few offerings that look mighty fine to us.
Austin Film Festival: Friday Panel & Film Picks
Friday. Day two of Austin Film Festival. Everything’s really getting going now, but you’re already worn out from yesterday’s insanity. Not to worry, we have you all set! We’ve even taken into account that some panels might be full, so we’ve gone ahead and given you a backup. That’s just the kind of friends we are.

