I don't know what festival the other person commenting went to, but the one I saw "Smalltimore" at (Indie Fest USA 2009) awarded Jeannie the Best Director award, and it was well-deserved.
For a first feature, this is particularly exceptional. But regardless, it's a well written and well made film with a lot of humor and some touching moments. There were times when I thought the pacing lagged, but then it would pick up again. And I never felt bored.
The central characters were likable and entertaining. The acting was sometimes a bit rough, as it is in nearly every indie film I've ever seen that doesn't have a budget in the millions, but was generally good. Overall, I came out of the film showing with a very positive impression. I thought it was one of the best films I saw during the week of showings.
