Las Vegas Weekly

June 18, 2008 · 1:10 PM

CineVegas at first blush

By Bethany Acree

Photo: Bethany Acree

CineVegas 2008 has provided many firsts for this Las Vegas lady, and this past Monday night I racked up a few more.

After navigating through a sweltering hot parking garage, I finally found my way into the Wynn. For the first time. It certainly made an impression, as if just by walking in I had suddenly inherited a trust fund. I scurried past the blackjack tables and straight to a deep glowing nightclub: Blush, the host of this evening’s CineVegas party. This should be fun, I'm a twenty-something in Vegas. Clubbing is what we do here. Except this is my first time, and I've lived here almost a year.

I'm a little anxious as I flash my credentials and walk past the linebacker at the front door (or is that what they call the bouncer?). I'm a little early, but Blush is by no means empty. Couples and groups are scattered across the plush lounge creating a soft hum with their chatter. CineVegas logos splash across the walls behind the bartender, CineVegas lanyards everywhere. This year’s signature “X” is flooding my peripheral vision.

The DJ is playing songs I sort of know, but the floor is fairly empty and not a soul is dancing yet. After my first drink, which happens to be only my second drink purchased on the Strip, I'm feeling a little bolder. People are flowing in, filling the tables and lounges, and crowding into the snug space in front of the bar to sip free glasses of Stella Artois, Grey Goose cocktails and Fiji water.

The patrons are an eclectic mix of filmmakers, journalists, CineVegas staffers and locals who scored a ticket to this evening’s event. Looking around, I wonder who might have produced this or directed that. This guessing game is half the fun of CineVegas parties – can you spot filmmaker/pseudo celebrity/media big shot? Can you tell which one’s which?

Finally, a group of ladies ignite the dance floor and people start to get up and move. The music is loud. Blush is packed. I’ve officially been clubbing for the first time at my first film festival during my first year in Las Vegas. And now, with the clock pushing midnight, I’m ready for bed.

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