Last night I saw an indie film called American Gun, starring James Coburn in what turned out to be his last movie. It has screened at some festivals, and will be showing in Portland on (or starting on?) July 11, but other than that, the rest of you may be out of luck until it comes out on video, which I believe the writer/director said will happen next year. Its official site is here, but don't watch the trailer if you like to go in knowing nothing, as I do. I'll just say that Coburn was wonderful, and the story moved me, and that you should see it if you can.

This was the first time I'd been to the Arclight, which I've wanted to see for a while (how long has it been open now, a year? longer?). Spiffy posh. My favorite place was the upper level balcony, where I could look down on the lobby and the cafe and peoplewatch like crazy. I also found it funny that, up there, I could look out the massive glass wall of windows across to the fitness club next door on the same level, and see all the after-work exercisers stompling away on their machines with much bobbing of heads. I liked the design of the lobby, and also of the cafe, which I might want to check out the next time I'm there (though I don't know how expensive it might be). The theater in which we saw the movie was cushy with plenty of seat and leg space, and great sound of course. And they have fresh caramel corn! me happy.

The most important bit is that they make a point of showing indie films along with wide-release flicks, also special event Q&A things like last night. Yup, I'll be going to the Arclight some more, I think.

Not that I'll be completely giving up on cheaper matinee pricing elsewhere. But it is nice to have a place with a wide selection on my route home from work, ten bucks or no. The way things are going, that's almost the standard around here now anyway.

copyright 2003 carrie lynn king.