For the film buff

Tonight was the beginning of the prime time Hollywood awards season. The Golden Globes kicked things off and will be followed closely by the Screen Actors Guild Awards (January 30), BAFTAs (February 13), the Academy Awards (February 27), and several other events that allow Hollywood to get fancied up and heap praise upon itself. Awards season also means that some of the best movies of the year are playing at the theaters or newly available to purchase, so otherwise recreational movie-goers transform into hard-core see-all-the-nominees film fiends. 

But there are some people who love movies year-round, regardless of awards, popularity, genre, or critical reception. These people appreciate the art of filmmaking, bask in the thrill of the story, and know the theater employees by name. Some may aspire to be filmmakers and devote significant time to studying the history and production of films, while others may simply love watching movies. No matter the level of your recipient's love for the silver screen, here are some suggestions to help you choose the perfect gift for them:

• Their favorite movie: although your movie fan probably already owns a version of his favorite film, he may not own it in a new format (like DVD or Blu-Ray) or have the special edition/director's cut/anniversary edition/etc. A true movie lover can't get enough of the extras or the latest version of his favorite film.
• Movie player, TV, or accessories: if your recipient hasn't upgraded to the latest movie technology, she will jump at the chance to experience her favorites in a new way. Consider a Blu-Ray (or DVD, for late adopters) player, HD or 3D TV, projector, or computer-to-TV device like Apple TV.
• Netflix subscription: Netflix is an absolute must for anyone who loves movies or TV. Your recipient can watch online, through Wii or XBox, or at home (depending on the plan). You can choose to give 1, 2, 3, 6, or 12 months of 4 different plans (3 with at-home DVDs and 1 streaming only).
• Book with a movie tie-in: Many movies have books associated with them, either as their precursor or written after the fact. If a movie is at all popular, there is probably a book about it. If no book is directly on point, you could give one with a similar history or on the same topic (e.g. a WWII history or a personal account of D-Day for a Saving Private Ryan lover).
• Movie poster: there is something about movie posters that brings home the theater experience. Choose an original if you can find it; otherwise go with a reprint or even a foreign language print. Bonus points if you find a limited edition or one autographed by someone associated with the movie.
• Gift certificate/card: a voucher for a local theater or an online ticket site like Fandango will allow your movie buff to continue her love affair with the newest additions to the silver screen. You could also give a movie rental (like Blockbuster) or an iTunes gift card (to buy or rent movies or TV shows).
• Movie food: although this isn't an actual food category, anyone who has been to the movies knows what I mean. Buttery popcorn, sugary candy, and huge soft drinks are just a few of the things that make the movie viewing process complete. Throw in some special seasonings and a theater-like movie tub for the popcorn, and you will add the finishing touch to your recipient's next viewing experience.
• Movie-themed games: see how much he really knows with a trivia game about his favorite movie (or movies in general). You could also choose a movie edition of another game, such as Lord of the Rings Trivial Pursuit DVD Game: Trilogy Edition or Scene It? Deluxe Movie 2nd Edition.
• IMDb Pro subscription: IMDb (Internet Movie Database) is the go-to website for movies. For $15.95 per month, an IMDb Pro membership allows access to in-depth actor information, film production details, and show business contacts. This is the closest your film buff will get to being a Hollywood insider without actually breaking into the business.
• Movie cataloguing software: most movie lovers have lots of titles in their collection, and this software makes cataloguing them a breeze. Packages start at $29.95 from Collectorz.
• Gift basket: combine some of the items above into a gift basket, like a movie or a rental gift card with popcorn and a box of candy, for a perfect night of silver screen fun.

If you are looking to spend a little more time and/or money, here are some unforgettable presents that will make you a gift-giving legend:

• Movie premiere or screening: if you are well-connected and can pull this off, arrange for your recipient to attend a movie premiere or early screening. Regardless of the movie he sees, it will be an experience of a lifetime.
• Acting role or visit to a movie set: again, you'll need to have some strings to pull (or just have very powerful friends, who I would like to meet), but arranging for an acting role, even as an extra, or a visit to the set of a movie currently in production is a truly unique experience. If you are able to make this happen, be sure to follow up by giving a copy of the film as soon as it is released.
• Movie prop or replica: look for a memorable item featured in your recipient's favorite movie - the more iconic, the better. If you can't find an authentic item, consider a replica or a similar item, like this villain chair from Suck UK that looks like a prop from a vintage Bond film or a Hamburger Telephone from Juno.
• Film experience: recreate a special scene from her favorite movie, or take her on a trip that follows the movie's plot. My favorite example of this is an anniversary gift for a wife who's favorite movie was The Notebook. Her husband took her to Charleston, SC, where the movie was filmed, and they retraced the characters' steps and recreated their experiences. Or, instead of visiting the film's location, journey to the actual setting of a historical story (like the Scottish Highlands for a fan of Braveheart). If you can't afford to take a trip just for this purpose, you could try to work it into a future vacation or recreate a portion of it closer to home.

What are your favorite movies and movie items?