AFI Fest

AFI Fest has gone through something of a re-invention recently having cut its programming and competition sections and moved its home from Hollywood’s ArcLight Theaters north a bit to the Hollywood and Highland complex - better known as the place where the anual Oscars broadcast takes place. Economic conditions were no doubt major factors in the streamlining and shake-up, but festival organizers have been able to take lemons and produce lemonade as the cliche goes. While their offerings were more limited due to budget constraints, they also took the radical step for the 2009 edition to make most of their screenings free - even galas (which are held at the famed Grauman’s Chinese Theater next door on Hollywood Blvd).