With SXSW in full swing, it is tough to keep up – with films, red carpets, interviews and most importantly, sleep. As a result, writing is laborious to say the least. BUT I do have a few things to share. I opted to skip the big SXSW 2013 opening night feature, choosing instead to venture to the new Zachary Scott Topher theatre (built mainly for live drama) to see Josh Duhamel and Dan Fogler in Scenic Route. What a treat and Fergie was in the house too and glowing! I loved the film! The previous night Joseph Gordon-Levitt (actor/director) gave us Don Jon’s Addiction (now called just Don Jon) and I found it amazingly well edited, acted and directed. I didn’t get to talk to Gordon-Levitt, but since the festival opening day, I spoke with Duhamel and Fogler, and Olivia Wilde, Anna Kendrick (Drinking Buddies), I Give it A Year star, Simon Baker (bucket list – check), Paul Rudd, Emile Hirsch (Prince Avalanche), Clark Gregg, Nathan Fillion (bucket list – check), Amy Acker, Alexis Denisof and Joss Whedon (Much Ado About Nothing) and many other stars and directors. While I find this year’s SXSW a bit for low key, the stars are out in full force. I hate to be cliché, but I’ll do it anyway, there are just so many films and such little time. Down time is tough to find too. James Franco, Ashley Benson, Selena Gomez and Rachel Korine were in the house with Spring Breakers last night and Sunday afternoon, Harry Connick Jr. and Willie Nelson shared When Angels Sing, a film filled with Austin musicians and Christmas Spirit!
It doesn’t take a badge or wrist band to enjoy the festival. Film tickets can be purchased at the box offices (the Paramount is the biggest house with the greatest chance of getting in), stars can be seen outside theatres and auditorium shores will soon be offering its SXSW free concerts. Music can be heard up and down 6th street and people watching is always great fun. Sure getting a badge or a wrist band is the ideal, but this is Austin and we do SXSW BIG and the week is just getting started. With over ten films under my belt, I’m grabbing my protein bars, a strong cup of tea and heading out again. I have already found favorites, like Much Ado About Nothing (I am an English teacher after all), I Give it A Year, Scenic Route and Don Jon I am looking for a few more.