It would be impossible for anyone to see all the films offered at the Rochester High Falls International Film Festival -- obviously, since many of the films screen simultaneously. But there's also the question of just how many films a person can watch in five days. And how many parties can one attend? And still have a life. But I tried my best.

The opening night party for the Rochester High Falls International Film Festival was similar to a family reunion for the local film community. Even Jerry Stoeffhaas, past executive director of the Rochester/Finger Lakes Film & Video Office, came back into town. At this, and each subsequent reception, a roving spotlight was set up outside the venue. It's a nice celebratory touch, announcing where the "movie stars" and "beautiful people" are.

The City Hall Atrium is a lovely place to hold an affair. I have a feeling the food servers had watched last week's "Grey's Anatomy" and were having their own competition. I've never been offered so much food so many times. Really, it was insistent. The vittles were pretty good, too.

At each showing there were signs clearly instructing where a person should go if you had a one-time or all-films pass, or if you needed to purchase tickets. Volunteers kept the lines moving smoothly and really did a great job of directing patrons. Also, at each premiere you were handed a survey to complete and a ballot. Everyone I talked to had the same complaints about the survey. It was too long -- six pages -- and many of the questions were not relative to locals.

Friday's gathering at Java's was sweet and intimate. I hadn't seen any films that day, having gone to see "Hair" at Brockport again, but everyone I talked to said "Phoebe in Wonderland" was great. (It went on to win Audience Award - Narrative.) Bill Pullman attended and he seems a right sweet guy, taking his time with people and graciously agreeing to the many photo requests. As usual, the food and beverage spread was great, with the omnipresence of bowls of Luna Bars, a sponsor of the fest. The fest really takes care of their VIPs. Simply the amount of food and drink one can consume during the five days is more than worth the price of a $175 All-Access Pass.

Saturday's gathering at Edibles with Pullman and Rita Moreno was another intimate affair. Both were easily accessible and freely chatted with anyone who approached them.

The Gala Night Award Ceremony at The Little Theatre was heavily attended. In a three-part "tease" of a short speech, a small wrestle with a "live" wiggling brooch, and an enjoyable film presentation of her extensive career, Pullman managed to present the Susan B. Anthony "Failure is Impossible" Award to Rita Moreno. Moreno's acceptance speech, rewritten the night before after her positive experiences with the festival staff, was a joyful stroll through someone's love of their life. If it seemed that some attendees did not remain for the film, it shouldn't be taken personally. I felt like the event peaked with her warm presentation and couldn't fathom sitting for an hour and a half of subtitles. Like doing so would steal my sunshine, and many of the people I met outside agreed.

The reception at Riverside Court was elegant. A jazz band played while people made their way around the food stations. This night was the crème de la crème of "beautiful people" sightings. Both Pullman and Moreno were in attendance. I had a great time listening to Jerry Stoeffhaas  and City Newspaper's film critic George Grella discuss critiquing films and film critics.

Next up: Lilac Festival