This weekend is all about SIFF (and SIFF Notes Online), of course, but say you don’t feel like braving the dead stare of Platinum pass holders and the anxiety of watching a film with the director nervously anticipating your every titter. What are your options?

Seattle True International Film Festival: The scrappy underdog festival kicks off this weekend. Andrew Wright has the lowdown. (Actually, many directors will indeed be in the audience at STIFF, but the fanciest pass holders only paid $50.)

Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End: Sean Nelson reviews the juggernaut.

Ping Pong: Grand Illusion has a “manic, wonderfully overwrought manga adaptation about the fierce competitive drive of dudes with names such as Peco, Smile, and Demon,” says Andrew Wright.

The Freshman: The Paramount’s Silent Movie Mondays series wraps up on… a Friday? Yes, indeed, The Freshman and For Heaven’s Sake play tonight at the Paramount.

And check out Get Out for complete movie listings. Drown yourself in cinema!