THE L.A. FILM FESTIVAL

Sturdy walking shoes, an accurate timepiece and sunscreen are must-haves this year at the Los Angeles Film Festival. Unlike in the past, when it has largely been a one-stop moviegoing experience at the ArcLight in Hollywood, this time it's taking a village — Westwood — to make the festival.

The Landmark Regent, Mann's Festival and Majestic Crest are the anchor theaters, but other locations for screenings, coffee talks, poolside chats and porch parties include the Italian Cultural Institute, the Hammer Museum and the UCLA campus.

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In addition, screenings are being held several miles east at venues such as the John Anson Ford Amphitheatre and Laemmle's Sunset 5.

Festival planners recommend arriving at least an hour before a screening to allow time to park and reach your destination.

Other tips:

Bring cash: Parking lots in Westwood during the day can be pricey, but parking at the two official festival lots — near Kinross and Veteran avenues — are $8 for a full day and $6 after 4:30 p.m. during the week and all day on the weekends.

Hop on the bus: The festival offers free shuttle service every 10 to 15 minutes from the official parking lots to the venues. For those attending events at the Ford, there will be a shuttle from Universal City's Metro station parking lot.

Relax, snack: Popcorn Alley on Broxton Avenue is the place to get free popcorn and line up for port-a-potties. The stretch will also feature outdoor screenings and a lounge area with sofas to hang out, relax and discuss films.

Don't give up: If a film is sold out, you may still get in — sign up on the waiting list at the door.