After months of planning, scheduling and late, late nights, the 2009 Traverse City Film Festival has officially begun! Join us tonight for the opening ceremonies, which offers something for every member of the family. Here's the rundown of what's happening tonight:

1. TCFF Opening Block Party. We officially launch the fest by shutting down Front Street at 5 p.m. for a free block party. Everyone is invited. There'll be music and walking balloon art by Jason Hackenwerth and entertainment for the whole family. At 6 p.m., we'll hold our opening ceremony in front of the State Theatre and present Rich Brauer with this year's Michigan Filmmaker Award. The free block party will run until the opening night party starts at 8:30 pm.

2. Opening Night Film: "Troubled Water." Michael calls it the best dramatic film of the past couple of years. This powerful, intense movie from Norwegian director Erik Poppe (who will be here to introduce the film) is our opening night selection. The 6:30 p.m. show at the City Opera House and the 7 p.m. show at the State are sold out (don't forget the standby line!), but tickets are still available at the box office and at the door for the 10:15 pm show at the State. Do not miss this movie!

3. Opening Night Party. It's one of the high points of the festival, and this year we're back around the corner from the State on Park Street beginning at 8:30 p.m., rain or shine. Michael and other filmmaker guests will be there, along with great local food, drink and music. Some tickets are still available at the box office and at the door, and Friends get half off.

4. Free Film on the Bay. We kick off our Open Space free films with "Men in Black" starring Will Smith and Tommy Lee Jones. The show starts at dusk around 9:45 p.m. Mue Sephei, Mike Moran and Phenomenal Head will play sets beginning at 7 p.m.

Don't miss this great kickoff to our fifth annual festival. See you tonight!