The Beloit International Film Festival announced its 2009 lineup this week. The festival runs February 19–22, and I’m hoping to make the most of it. I’ve not heard of many of the films on the docket. If any independent film buffs out there could offer some recommendations, I’d appreciate it.

I actually managed to see several films in a theater last year, which is my new record since the quads were born. They were The Spiderwick Chronicles, Iron Man, The Dark Knight, Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull, Wall•E, High School Musical 3, Slumdog Millionaire, and Mutant Chronicles. (I’m not sure the last one counts as in a theater, as the private screening room in which I saw it had no popcorn, but why not?) Toss in a couple more at the Omnimax theater at the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago, and a 3D film at Great America, and that’s a good year for me.

A quick shout out to two friends of mine who’ve had good news this week.

First, to Carl Kluzke, who made it through the first round of Paizo‘s 2009 edition of its RPG Superstar competition. (Think American Idol, but for RPG designers.) The boundary chalk magic item he concocted for this is good fun with a cool twist. Good luck to him in the next round(s)!

Second, to Paul Crilley, who can finally announce that he’s sold the first two books in his new middle-grade fantasy series. Personally, I can’t wait to read them and to share them with my kids.

Good on you, guys!