Hello!

I got to Toronto this afternoon (it’s 6:00 Wednesday evening as I write this), found my way to Banting House (the B&B where I’m staying), then scurried to the Hyatt Regency where I picked up my festival materials (my Industry pass allows me access to all Press/Industry screenings + 2 public screenings per day…though I can only get those public screening tickets 1 day in advance and based on availability).

I quickly opened my schedules and began marking and cross-referencing the films that I want to see. Most films are offered at least once or twice to the Press/Industry folks and at least twice to the Public. It then becomes a game – trying to determine which films I’d prefer to see in a setting with the public (which are generally screenings at which directors & stars appear…not to mention, the public seem to appreciate the work more than the often cynical P/I folks). Making my schedule is a process that will be an on-going effort as I start to hear buzz about new and exciting films. Every night, I will determine my best strategy for the next day…and more than likely, I’ll be out the door by 7am to try and get my most-desired tickets for the following day. (OK – sorry – that was long-winded.)

All that said, I managed to get tickets to 2 public films for tomorrow. I got a ticket to Wim Wenders’ PINA – a performance/documentary featuring choreography of the legendary Pina Bausch…and in 3D nonetheless (this is a film I’ve been terribly excited to see). I also got a ticket to Gus Van Sant’s new film RESTLESS (which is already scheduled to open at THE NEON this Fall). In addition to these public screenings, I’ve got lots more to chose from tomorrow. Von Trier’s MELANCHOLIA, a French film called BEAUTY, Tilda Swinton’s new film WE NEED TO TALK ABOUT KEVIN (though I think I’d prefer to see that at a public screening), WHERE DO WE GO NOW (the new film from Nadine Labaki), and THE IDES OF MARCH (George Clooney’s film – which I think he shot in Cincinnati). Sooooo….too many films for one day – so I have to start making decisions tonight.

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Thanks for reading! I’ll keep you posted.

Jonathan