And SIFF 2012 screens on

I’ve never been one to indulge in the kind of east-west comparisons that are so popular in this state. Spokane is Spokane and Seattle is Seattle, and the only thing the two cities have in common is that they exist in the same artificial boundary we call the state of Washington.

That said, you ever notice the attitude that some Seattle citizens have? Take the street sign pictured above, which captures that attitude perfectly. See, the “we’re not Paris” message means, actually, we’re BETTER than Paris because we don’t leave our doggy doodoo lying in the street. Oh? Really?

Please don’t get me started on Paris-Seattle comparisons.

Actually, Seattle actually is better than Paris in one respect. It has a superior film festival. And, yes, I spent last weekend at the annual event, now in its 38th year, and I have to say that — yet again — this is one of the best filmgoing experiences a film fan could ever have.

Following the gala on Thursday, the festival began the first full day of its 25-day run on Friday at venues set around the city but with screenings mostly at The Egyptian, the Harvard Exit, the Pacific Place and The Uptown (which doubles as SIFF’s official theater).

It’s a near-five-hour drive to Seattle from my front door. But I try to make the trip at least twice during each SIFF. I may go three times this year. You can access the schedule here . Check it out and you’ll see that my enthusiasm isn’t unfounded.

Just watch out for the dog crap.