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Patterns are big business in IT. You can't get far in OO programming before hitting a book about design patterns, stressing the need for standardized solutions to particular problems. When it comes to web development though, design patterns never really hit off. Maybe because of the chaotic nature of the so-called web standards, maybe because we as an industry are just not ready for them yet. That's no reason to ignore their potential though.

Ho-Cheung Pang, the man that introduced me to another side of HK cinema. Not hindered by the limitations of genre cinema or the pretensions of arthouse, his films are quirky and lovable author pieces. Love In A Puff is no exception to the rule. A fun, little romantic comedy set in the hidden back alleys where smokers gather to share a cigarette, possibly even more. Even for non-smokers there is plenty to enjoy.

Belgium has a rich background in comic books, but when it comes to animation there's not too much happening here. Sure, we have Picha (Blanche Neige: La Suite), most other attempts at producing something worthwhile usually amount to very little. But there is hope. Aubier and Patar turned their much-lauded short series into a feature-length film, throwing their hyperactive Cowboy and Indian couple into their biggest adventure yet.

If you take out all the school stuff, (high)school life was great. Old enough to do stuff, young enough to not face big responsibilities. Of course it was also filled with boring lessons and subjects that would never prove their value, but those are easily forgotten. Looking back at our school lives can be comforting, even when it's through the distorted vision of an unfamiliar society. Enter The Graduates.