First things first...

An open letter to the entire states of Iowa and Nebraska -

I really do understand how much your presence in Manhattan means this holiday season. You're spending plenty of your hard-earned red state money and doing your part to help the economy of the Tri-State. Thank you for that. I also find a tiny bit of charm in your constant concern for my safety when crossing the street. I understand that you don't have people in wheelchairs traversing the halcyon streets of Dubuque. I, however, do this pretty much every day and have a pretty good idea of what I'm doing. But for the love of all things sacred... GET THE HELL OUT OF MY WAY.

Now, on to the rest of my story...

I didn't make it to all three films. Instead I only managed to fit in "A Very Long Engagement" and "House of Flying Daggers." On the surface these would appear to be vastly different experiences. In fact, found them to be very, very similar and perfect compliments to one another. Full reviews tomorrow. Suffice it to say, though, that I think the double feature might just have been the best day of cinema in memory. Both are brilliant, heartbreaking films.