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Those of you that know me are probably thinking, “Something must be wrong with her, she hasn’t been negative lately.” Well, here’s another non-negative blog for you. Let me know how it goes. Why all the positivity, you ask? Because Baton Rouge has had some really cool and exciting things you should hear about. And being the Red Stuck girl, I guess it’s part of my job. What are we dealing with this week? Those new fangled moving pictures.

I love movies and I always have. I took a handful of film classes in college, which resulted in having one more thing to overanalyze. Here lately, Louisiana has served as a setting for a number of high-budget films. Since we have tax incentives in place for filmmakers, we’re hoping to become a major player in the movie industry. We have state and local film commissions, and movie studios are on the way. We’ve even got celebrities moving to our lovely little state, despite the backwoods impression that Britney Spears has given the world.

Another phenomenon that has gotten pretty big is film festivals. There are quite a few planned this year, which I can only hope will eventually help make us the southern version of Park City, Utah. Among Baton Rouge’s festivals:

The Baton Rouge Jewish Film Festival. So, this was last weekend, and I know I’m a little late getting the info to you, but it was sold out. Telling you about it then would have just put salt in the wound. But ticket sales are a good sign that it will be back next year, featuring several award-winning films by Jewish filmmakers, and giving us a chance to learn more about the Jewish population in our mostly Christian city.

LSU Night of French Cinema. The French and I have three common loves: cheese, pastry and scarves. To my delight, Manship Theatre will be hosting this event on Friday, with two of those loves served along with wine during intermissions. And I bet you won’t find a shortage of people wearing scarves, either. You really should give the films a chance too, even though most of the French films I’ve seen are probably closer to what we Americans call porn. So guys, I guess that’s a good enough reason for you to see some movies Friday night.

International Film Fest. Held at the LSU Union Theater, this festival features films from South Africa, Japan, India and France. I remember going to this theater for several films in college. It’s an old-school venue that has definitely seen better days. But the chances to see these films on the big screen are rare, so do it while you can.

Red Stick Animation Festival. Cartoons, cartoons and more cartoons. And boy, do I love them. This also probably is your best bet for family-oriented fun. At least until after dark, when they usually show more adult-themed animation. Just be patient, since you have to wait until April for all the fun. Wait, you have an animated film you want to submit? Click the link here for more information, or send it to me so I can have something to watch on my new iPod.

Outhouse Film and Video Festival. Run by the Cinema Club at LSU, April’s Outhouse will be the 8th annual event. I remember attending the first one, which makes me feel a little old. But it’s a great opportunity to see what the kids are up to these days since we’ve finally surpassed Blair Witch-esque student films. You might even have an opportunity to see the work of someone who is destined to become our next Steven Soderbergh. And maybe with our support, we can convince LSU to give the students an option to major in film.

While I’m sure this is not the complete list (I know I’ve left out the Q fest, but I couldn’t find the dates), it will at least give you an idea of the different types of culture we’re trying to promote in the city.

Now, does anyone have Robert Redford’s number to see if we can talk him into moving Sundance here?