TORONTO -- The Toronto International Film Festival features hundreds of movies playing at various venues over 10 days. Given the dazzling celebrities, the crush of fans and the slew of competing titles, tackling the fest can seem overwhelming. Here are six key tips to make the most of TIFF, from those who've been going for years:
BE PATIENT, MAKE A FRIEND
Any festivalgoer needs to exert a degree of patience, be it while picking up tickets, standing in rush lines, or waiting to see a celebrity on the red carpet. Festival veterans advise making the most of the experience by talking to those beside you -- an exercise which can lead to tips on hot films or future star encounters.
"They're all film fans so you're actually going to have some decent conversations," says Angelo Iascone, a TIFF veteran of nearly four decades.
PICK YOUR CELEBRITY SPOTTING LOCATIONS WISELY
While you never know who you might spot getting out of a limo at TIFF, diehard star-gazers know that some venues offer fans better red-carpet access than others.
"The best one is Roy Thomson Hall. It's spacious," says Mac Pourmoslemi, a serious TIFF celebrity chaser. "Another one is Ryerson (Theatre) when it's rainy, because there's a roof."
BRING A BUDDY WHEN STAKING OUT A STAR
Any fan prepared to wait up to ten hours to spend a few precious moments with their favourite actor knows that there's strength in numbers. Bringing a buddy while waiting for a celebrity to walk the red carpet helps while away the hours and saves you a spot when you need to step away for food or bathroom breaks.
"By yourself, standing over there, you'll feel bored," says Pourmoslemi. "Try to come as early as possible and make sure you come with at least two or three people."
WEAR APPROPRIATE FOOTWEAR AND PACK WISELY
Comfortable shoes are a must for standing in line, sprinting between theatres and staking out a red carpet. A packed film-watching schedule can also leave little time for meals between shows, so pack snacks and water for the day. And it never hurts to carry a pen and notepad, just in case you're close enough to your favourite star to get their autograph.
WATCH FILMS YOU TYPICALLY WOULDN'T
With 399 films being screened, TIFF offers a huge variety. Longtime fest fans suggest seeking out at least a few flicks that are different than what you'd go watch at the theatres. Get out of your cinematic comfort zone. You may get to see something that wouldn't make it to the theatres in Canada.
"Sniff out stuff that interests you," says Iascone. "Don't go see films that are only the ones you would go see at the cinema anyway."
SEEK OUT THE Q&As
Certain screenings at TIFF feature the opportunity for audience members to ask questions of a film's director and cast -- a rare chance for fans to interact directly with the talent without having to press up against red carpet barricades for hours. Embrace the moment and enjoy the unfiltered exchange.
"No matter what the actual movie is like you can appreciate the presence of the people who have made this their baby and the way they share it in a fairly intimate environment," says Iascone. "You feel like you're part of something special."
