OVER BUT NOT: Typically when "cut" is called on a movie scene, that's it for the scene. Likewise "it's a wrap" signals the production has come to an end. (Well, let's be honest; production comes to end an when all cast and crew get their official t-shirts and baseball caps.) It's the very same deal when a festival devoted to movies calls "it's a wrap," too; it is done. Except in the case of the Santa Barbara International Film Festival, which technically shuttered for 2012 on Sunday, Feb. 5. The festival always throws a third weekend -- called "3rd Weekend," which is immensely helpful -- following its closing date and that festival is always free. Call it the big after-party, if you will, or call it a great way to decompress from a starry, week-and-a-half affair. And call it on for Friday, Feb. 10 through Sunday, Feb. 12, when several goodies will screen gratis at the Riviera.
ON THE DOCKET: "Vinyl" has been getting a lot of buzz, and will build on that come Friday, Feb. 10; "Dirty Energy" and "Barrymore" screen Saturday afternoon. And "Free Men" rounds out 3rd Weekend on Sunday, Feb. 12. Even if you aren't around the American Riviera over 3rd Weekend, you can support a concept that more festivals and events should try, yes? Would it be great if a free, it's-over-but-not-really after-thing happened for every major to-do? People are rested and more relaxed and, yep, a bit spent-out. It's good all-around, we think, so cheers to you, SBIFF.
