28th Annual Starz Denver International Film Festival — Nov. 10-20
Why go to the movies when you can see film? Screen nearly 200 new fims from more than 100 artists at this annual festival of the cinema—featuring international releases, independent documentaries, animation, and experimental work. Here’s your chance to hobnob with film industry big wigs right in downtown Denver. Some of the festivals highlights include, the Mayor’s Lifetime Achievement Award presented to Ang Lee and the Krzysztof Kieslowski Award for best feature film. Various locations. $8- $50. Call 303-595-3400 for more information.

Amy Tan Book Signing — Nov. 9
Jefferson County Library Distinguished Author Series brings Amy Tan to Denver. Perhaps best known for The Joy Luck Club, Tan will discuss her new novel, Saving Fish from Drowning, followed by a book signing. Wed 7- 8:45 p.m. Belmar Events Center, 1701 California St., 303-742-1520. Free admission but advanced registration required. For registration and additional information, visit http://jefferson.lib.co.us/.

Tan. La Grande Affaire — Nov. 10
The Brown Palace’s Grand Ballroom transforms into a quaint French market in the sunny setting of Cote d’Azure. Sip the region’s finest wines and dine on chef’s delicacies. All proceeds benefit the Denver Center Theatre Company’s production of The Ladies of the Camellias, a fictional account of the chance encounter of Elenora Duse and Sarah Bernhardt in Paris in the 19th Century. Thu 6-8 p.m. The Brown Palace, 321 17th St. $100. Additional information and tickets available at www.denvercenter.org or by phone 303-446-4812.

20th Annual World’s Largest Office Party — Nov. 11
Join local celebrities and over 3,000 partygoers to help raise money for Colorado’s Special Olympics. Check out the special appearance by musical group Vertical Horizon and (ladies, are you ready for this?) bid at the Colorado Firefighters Calendar Model Bachelor Auction. Fri 5-11 p.m. Hyatt Regency Tech Center, 7800 E. Tufts Ave. $10 or $15 at the door. For information, call 303-779-1234.

Michael Clapper & Mark Dickson Exhibit Opening — Nov. 11
William Havu’s Gallery’s final exhibition for the year features local artists Mark Dickson and Michael Clapper. Running through Jan. 1, the exhibit displays sculptures of stone and steel by Clapper and large prints by Dickson. Opening reception Fri 6-9 p.m. William Havu Gallery, 1040 Cherokee St., 303-893-2360, www.williamhavugallery.com.