Thursday night, AFI hosted the U.S. premiered Pedro Almodovar's "Volver" and a tribute to the excruciatingly talented Spanish actress, Penelope Cruz. Since her debut to American audiences in the international hit "Jamon Jamon", Penelope has become one of Europe's leading export. the AFI salute included a lively on-stage discussion about her impressive career alongside film clips.

First Look, which is shopping the films "American Crime", featuring Catherine Keener and James Franco, and "Smiley Face" directed by indie sweetheart, Greg Araki and "A Guide to Recognizing Your Saints" featuring Robert Downey Jr., and Rosario Dawson, held a well attended bash at the Viceroy Hotel in Santa Monica.