Elephant hits New York fest

Gus Van Sant's Elephant, the feature inspired by the notorious massacre at Columbine High School, joins the lineup at this year's New York Film Festival, opening October 3. Controversial in part for its offhand gay overtones, Elephant has been picked up for distribution by HBO Films/Fine Line Features. Clint Eastwood's Mystic River is set to open the 41st edition of the 17-day event, held at Manhattan's Lincoln Center.