The Subject: Shannon Cavers, a Houston-based lawyer
Where: Bus to Yarrow Theatre

Why are you here, Miss Shannon?
I love movies, and I was looking forward to some winter weather. It's 80 degrees in Houston! I came with five friends, and we're all staying in a condo together until Monday.

Who paid for you to come here?
I did, I did. I ran away to the snow!

What film are you most excited about?
Well, we have tickets to Off the Black, Open Window, and A Little Piece of Heaven. You know, I'm most excited about Open Window, because I love unique plotlines and I hear this is a very creative story.

[Her friend chimes in, saying:] Also, we really wanted to see movies that we couldn't see back in Houston, like Window. Some of the movies this year, we've seen trailers for them in local theaters back home. I think that misses the point, if they already have a way to be seen. This festival is exciting because it's all about discovering something new that you wouldn't see at home. So they shouldn't forget that.

Amen, sister. Shannon, do you think the festival is too commercial, as well?
I don't know about that. I was hoping to see a few stars. I think that'd be fun.

So, brass tacks. Where'd you get your boots?
I got them in Houston at Whole Earth Provision Co. They're hiking boots, but my feet are nice and warm.

And what's the last song you listened to on your iPod?
I was listening to a podcast of news from Mother Earth.