Day Five: Friday 18th August

A 'dreich' afternoon welcomed star Charlize Theron (Æon Flux, [film]North Country[/film], Monster). She practiced this new Scottish word at the press conference, rather well. "Give us a Scottish accent then," someone shouted. "I'm not a performing monkey - I get paid for my performances!" she joked back. But the drizzle turned to rain and threatened to send home many who were hoping to see her at the Red Carpet. Charlize Theron has just flown in to Scotland to present a film she is producing rather than acting in, a documentary called East of Havana that she has had to defend against suggestions that it is 'pro-American.' But the Oscar-winning actress looked radiant, more fragile-looking than I imagined her. I am a great fan of her work, but had reservations about her new film and told her so. She was very gracious and we chatted convivially after the press conference. If she decides to move to Scotland, as rumours say she is considering, I think everyone would line up to give her the warmest welcome.

Also in great demand today and on the red carpets were Kevin Smith (Clerks, Chasing Amy, Dogma), and Yoav Shamir, the controversial director of the 5 Days film about the Israeli disengagement from Gaza.

The Flying Scotsman is still in the lead with your votes for the Audience Award, and Snow Cake a close second. Others in this section you can vote on are Art School Confidential, Brothers Of The Head, Cargo, Clerks II, Colour Me Kubrick, Dead Man's Cards, Driving Lessons, Hoodwinked, The Killing Of John Lennon, [film]Life And Lyrics[/film], Little Miss Sunshine, The Lives Of The Saints, London To Brighton, The Night Listener, Shoot The Messenger, Someone Else, Stephanie Daley, The Oh In Ohio, and [film]The Treatment[/film].

Tomorrow there is a host of the top films to choose from. My personal favourites are House of Sand and Stephanie Daley. (And if the weather keeps you off the streets, maybe hang out at the Filmhouse bar where you can get all the latest gossip.) Clerks II will be the big crowd pleaser, Summer '04 an art house favourite, and, if you saw the first screening, you'll maybe agree that Wristcutters is one of the wackiest and most entertaining low budget movies ever. Check the rest of our reviews to help you decide for what promises to be an amazing weekend of film. Enjoy!