I didn't realize it, but the San Francisco Asian Film Festival
is going on right now. Last Thursday they showed Hero, which I would have loved to see on the big screen (although now, I guess I just need to wait until April, when it hits theatres). I really love independent films, even though sometimes they can miss the mark totally, and I spend much of the time desperately waiting for the credits to roll. Other times they hit the mark right on in a way that could have never been done in Hollywood. One of the other differences in indies is that they feel more personal.
Hahaha. I can't believe they will be showing Stephen Chow's Shaolin Soccer. If you're into slapstick humor, you should definitely see that movie. If I was in SF right now, I'd love to go see that one with Anna May Wong in it. I believe she is the first Hollywood actress of Chinese or Asian descent. She did make a breakthrough, but she was always offered roles that portrayed Asian women in a very bad light. If I remember correctly, she got turned down for a role in Flower Drum Song.
About biodiesel, I haven't seen it here in Edmonton. Well, at least not yet, but I hope it will eventually be offered nationwide.
Don't idealize other countries although I have to admit that Canada is certainly more environmentally-conscious. Every country has its problems and there are some good things that can be found in every one of them. =)