Palm Springs Film Festival - The Photo Tour

So, I'm back from Palm Springs, meaning I should have plenty of time to sit down and start writing about the films I saw. But as it turns out I'm actually pretty tired. So instead on my first night back I plunked myself down to watch the twisty, puzzle-like bit of headgames called Pig which screened at the festival. And while I enjoyed it I still wasn't ready to start doing some writing. Therefore, I'm going to do the lazy thing and share some of my photos from the trip. There's nothing really earth shattering in this collection - but if you've been curious why someone might want to fly to Palm Springs, California this may give you a little bit of a better idea.

You should be able to click onto the images to get a better view. Especially valuable for the panorama images. I still have a few unused photos, but they're from Q&A sessions (Miss Bala and Pig) so those will wait until the reviews.

Don't fret though - I'm hoping to start writing in earnest tomorrow...

The Regal Cinema which is the backbone of the festival in my view. Lots of screens, central location and the only really nice Regal theater I've ever been in. Think Lincoln Square Cinemas in Bellevue quality - if not nicer.

The Regal - lit up with some neon like goodness

Just a random shot from the streets of Palm Springs looking up at the hills that bound the town on one side.

The Camelot Theater which is the other multi-screen venue used during the festival. An easy shuttle ride or a nice walk (if it's not too hot) from the Regal. In addition to popcorn/candy this theater includes a small (and slow) snack shack that serves up ridiculously large sandwiches, salads, wine, and smoothies. The smoothies turned out to be quite tasty. Made with actual fruit and yogurt they're delicious, reasonably priced and the closest one tends to get to a fruit during the fest.

The upstairs of the Camelot boasts a full bar, tables and this year food service after 3pm. Though that might have been going on in the past and I just didn't pick up on it.

The Camelot marque at night.

Another snapshot of the hills. Taken as I walked between the Regal and Camelot theater.

An attempt to photograph the way beautiful moon on display outside the Camelot one night. Unfortunately I didn't quite have things setup correctly. Was distracted by needing to keep an eye on my place in line.

One of the main charms of my hotel was the 2 block proximity to the Regal theater. The other was this off my balcony sight line to Sherman's. Where I once again managed to avoid eating a heart attack on a plate pastrami sandwich made between two latkes.

Turns out that iPhone with enough light and a cheap little app can make some pretty nice panoramic pictures. Here's one shot across a vacant lot I walked by on way to Camelot after dropping off my one day rental car at the airport.

Probably the largest of the Palm Springs venue is the auditorium of the local high school. I'm not a huge fan of this theater. But it's generally easy to get into, the local students run a nice little concession featuring bananas, and if you wanted a free flag there's lots of opportunity to sneak one out.

There's a free shuttle that stops at each venue every 15 minutes. I loves me a fest that doesn't require a car.

This year I managed to find my way into the press/guest/industry lounge held at the hotel across the street from the Regal. Wish I'd discovered this oasis earlier in the festival. Lots of handy snacks and free drinks. Not to mention breakfast and a complimentary happy hour each evening. Membership does have its privileges.

Some of the functional swag from the lounge. Icelandic Glacial water was a sponsor. Once I discovered the lounge there was no longer a hydration problem - nor a popcorn one anywhere in sight.