Hello, Famous readers. My name's Jefferson and I'm planning on doing a weekly blog entry on independent films and close-to-independent films that are playing/opening in Fresno and the surrounding areas. My goal is to put my posting together Thursdays, to coincide with Jarah's weekly Flyer posting, so you'll have movie tips for the weekend. Here's this week's guide to indie films around town:

Every critic's big film this year seems to be the Ang Lee-directed Brokeback Mountain, playing at Edwards on the giant screen, and at Sierra Vista. Starring Jake Gyllenhaal and Heath Ledger, this movie is highly recommended by our local Reel Pride folks.

An excellent ensemble drama that seems on its way out of Fresno is the George Clooney-produced Syriana, playing in limited times at the Edwards. Stephen Gaghan directs, and Clooney co-stars with a ton of great actors.

Oscar buzz is also swirling around the Steven Spielberg-directed Munich, playing widely at Edwards, Manchester, Broadway Faire, and Clovis Town Center. Starring Eric Bana and Geoffrey Rush.

And finally, a movie that's so indie that I could find no major reviews anywhere, the low-budget horror flick Mortuary is playing at Edwards and Sierra Vista. Directed by some guy named Shawn Hazelaar.

Happy movie watching, people.
-J.