Spiffy!

Now that Chuseok is over, the first topic of conversation in any social situation these days — for both Koreans and foreigners — is “Are you going to PIFF?”

The Pusan International Film Festival is a huge deal in this city. It’s the one time of the year when Busan is the hub of Asia, as filmmakers from all over this side of the globe show their works. We even get visits from a few adventurous Hollywood stars. We’ve got the red carpet press row and everything.

I’ve been lucky enough to score a guest pass, which gives me access to opening/closing ceremonies, official parties, seminars, and four screenings per day. Pretty damn sweet. I plan to put on my best duds and go to some parties, meet some people, hang out with friends, and see a few good movies.

I’ll be sure to post updates once it begins Oct. 4. And now that the Lumix is back from the dead, maybe I’ll post some paparazzi.