She Likes to Watch

“The Big Lebowski” celebrates 10 years: Hardly a lightweight

Aficionados of “The Big Lebowski” have to be some of the most feverish fans known to filmdom.

They quote the Coen brothers’ comedy incessantly. They attend conventions held at bars and bowling alleys. They proudly identify themselves as “Achievers” and wear T-shirts emphasizing the fact.

In fact, “The Big Lebowski” — first released in theaters on March 6, 1998 — seems to inspire the kind of fierce loyalty usually awarded to cult leaders and the dictators of Third World countries. Maybe it’s the movie’s vintage vibe — a blend of private eye caper and stoner comedy. Maybe it’s the offbeat humor. Or maybe it’s the fact that, deep inside every one of us, there’s a bit of the laidback slacker known as The Dude.

Achievers will gather this weekend in San Francisco for Lebowski Fest, a two-day celebration of all things Lebowski.

The fun starts tonight with a screening of the film and music by the Extra Action Marching Band, The Dead Hensons (a Muppets tribute band) and Meshugga Beach Party (a Jewish surf band). Then there’s a bowling party and costume contest on Saturday.

Jeff Dowd, the curly-haired inspiration for The Dude, plans to attend.

Meanwhile, two 10th anniversary editions of “The Big Lebowski” come out on DVD on Tuesday, Sept. 9. One drool-worthy set features two discs in a miniature red-and black bowling ball. Be still my beating heart!

Rolling Stone magazine has also rolled out the red carpet for “The Big Lebowski,” dedicating a big chunk of its latest issue to “The Decade of the Dude.”

Available online now is Andy Greene’s well-written paen to the Coen brothers’ masterpiece, as well as Q-and-A sessions with Jeff Bridges (The Dude), Steve Buscemi (Donny) and John Goodman (Walter).

There’s also a video interview with Bridges, a feature on the movie’s awesome soundtrack, Lebowski-related links and a gallery of sweet pics.

This Aug. 22 issue is now on newsstands, so you can bet I’ll be picking up a copy.

Why, it’s enough to make any cat switch his workday duds for a robe, jellies and a White Russian. The Dude abides.