The 35th Seattle International Film Festival kicks off this Thursday, 5/21 with Armando Iannucci’s smart ensemble comedy, In the Loop.

An adaptation of his hit BBC series “The Thick of It”, In the Loop focuses on a political snafu involving members of the British Cabinet and a host of American officials in DC. The juxtaposition of the over-the-top British characters and the tongue-in-cheek DC crowd makes for truly enjoyable watching. They cast this thing to perfection. In fact, I liked it so much – I’m going to see it a second time.

There’s several ticket options: $50 ($45 for SIFF supporters) gets you into the film, 2 complimentary drink tix & all the free food you can eat at the Gala, $100 ($90 for SIFF supporters) bumps you up to OPEN BAR status (an experience which I assure you is totally worth it), and $200 gets you the super-fancy VIP treatment: a private reception catered by Il Fornaio before the film, VIP lounge access during the party, valet parking, reserved seating, a premium gift bag – and the aforementioned open bar! Swanky, non?

You can purchase the $50 and $100 tickets online here – or go here for the lush VIP extravaganza.

No matter which you choose, I promise you’ll have tons of fun. Opening Night has been a part of my SIFF experience for the last 5 years and I have had a blast every single time! The food is always delicious, they always have a fun theme, there’s dancing for those of us who like to shake it – and the people-watching is priceless.