Felicity Huffman has to be Hollywood's 'It' girl of the moment.

There is incredible anticipation at this event. People sense the festival is on a roll and the weather is chamber of commerce perfect.

This year marks a quantum leap for us. The industry is taking a good look at us. . . . This was a very pivotal year for us.

It's a mixture of giving people who come in something worthwhile to do, and screening films in a very respectful manner. The word-of-mouth from people who have been here is extraordinary. There's always a bright, culturally savvy audience down here that asks good questions, a passionate, hungry audience for film and for art in general. Filmmakers and actors appreciate that for their craft.

I was naturally thrilled. This isn't something he does very often. It's a huge honor and a huge coup.

We want to pound home the idea that the festival is for the entire Gulf region.