Horror Flicks!

General life has been keeping me from posting as much as I would like lately and in the near future. Nothing too serious or life threatening, but as silly as this may sound, I like to think myself in “pre-production” for the next stage of my life I am attempting to make, or in other words “production.”

As I start to feel ill, and with Halloween in a day away, I did want to take a little bit of time and share some of my favourite horror films. I enjoy, or I should say I think horror is more effective when they mess with your mind rather than rely on body count.  I admit that I haven’t watched some of the big classics in the horror genre, but out of the ones I have seen, these are the films that still have the power to freak me out.

The Exorcist (William Friedkin, 1973) 

I remember the first time I saw this film. It was at a friend’s birthday party in grade 7 and we were all sleeping over and huddled into her basement late at night. She whipped out a VHS (yup, VHS!) and popped it into the player.

I wanted to be brave and act as if this film would not scare me, but I ended up watching the film through the spaces in-between my fingers that were suppose to block my view and protect me.

Not so much.

The premise, the music, the desperate mother wanting to save her child, the voice coming from the innocent looking little girl, the images of what she or it was doing was unlike anything I've seen before. It did more than just scare me and give me a sleepless night. It unsettled me. 

To this day, even constantly reminding myself “it’s only a film, it’s only a film...” pea soup and all, it still unsettles me.

The Shining (Stanley Kubrick, 1980)

Maybe my control issues are at the heart of choosing these films as ones that scare me the most. Although The Shining isn't some gory, slasher type horror film, the idea of an individual losing control and being possessed by some force is scary to me.

Add a father played by Jack Nicholson who is possessed by these forces and trying to kill his family in an old haunted hotel, with Stanley Kubrick directing an adaptation of a Stephen King novel, and well...do I have explain more? 

"All work and no play..."

Along with losing control, another pattern I see is evil children. Add The Omen (1976) and Rosemary’s Baby (1968) as other films that freak me out.

I should look into this. 

I also want to give honourable mention to Rope (1948) by Alfred Hitchcock. Something about just being plain cold and callous without remorse or care that affects me and freaks me out.  Anything like that unsettles me actually. 

This trailer doesn't do justice to how awesome this film actually is, it's almost comedic in tone compared to today's standards. To me, this is one of Hitchcock's most under appreciated films. 

Happy Halloween! 

Book and Film Review: The Perks of Being a Wallflower

Based on the novel of the same name. Adapted and directed by Stephen Chbosky. Stars: Logan Lerman, Emma Watson, Ezra Miller.

Published in 1999, film released October 2012

There are plenty of films that depict and explore the trials, tribulations and themes of adolescence, and both the book and film The Perks of Being a Wallflower is one of them. What makes this book and film stand out differently is its honesty when looking at how messed up teens and high-school can be, but in the end, we will survive and learn and be messed up young adults in our messed up post high school life.  I mean this in a good way actually. The book and film in the end is a positive and hopeful message without being overly cheesy or look down on the reader/viewer.

The story is essentially about Charlie (Logan Lerrman) who starts his freshman year of high school after having his best friend from middle school commit suicide. He soon befriends seniors, Patrick (Ezra Miller) his step-sister Sam (Emma Watson) and follows the school year. This is all done (in the book) through letters written by Charlie to an anonymous friend about his experiences, although there may be guesses and theories to whom he is writing to. The films shows some of his letter writing, but is essentially told through Charlie’s perspective.

Despite the mature subject and being categorized as YA (young adult) the film/book can be appreciated by non young adults as well.

So what are some of the mature subject matter? Without getting too spoilerish: drugs, sex, teen pregnancy, molestation, rape, suicide, homosexuality, homophobia and bullying.

That is a lot to explore. This is also complaint that I have read in reviews from others that the book throws all of this and more in a short time span and is unrealistic. While reading I didn't feel like this was too much. It was not THAT long ago I was a teen and plenty of these issues came up in my days in high school.  The book looks at all these issues in a respectful and honest manner.  The film adaptation doesn't explore all of these, but a fair amount in the same way.

It is a touching story that even with all the heavy issues, it is hopeful in the end and  is more about the power of friendship and the love of family.

Logan Lerman who plays Charlie does a good job. While I read the book, I knew that there was something not right with Charlie, that was  more than just being shy and socially awkward.  He was just too sheltered, too innocent for a 15 year old starting high-school. Trust me! I was sheltered and green as well. The film doesn't explore much of Charlie’s panic attacks, anxiety, crying fits when he is overwhelmed and his blackouts. As well (for a lack of a better description) adrenaline rush that makes him able to defend himself from his bullies and later on a group of football players.  It also helps that his older brother is a college football player and teaches him a thing or two.  These outbursts are rare and Charlie is not a violent person, but linked with his other characteristics, the reader is clued in more and more that there is something wrong about Charlie that we are not aware of until the end. This helps to make Charlie a more complex and realistic character.  Lerman gets Charlie’s sensitivities and sweetness, but in the end, even with his big emotional and mental breakdown, he felt just like another shy and quiet teenage boy who has a talent for writing. Not all Lerman’s fault, it is also changes the film makes as well. This was something done more effectively and impactful in the novel.

Emma Watson as Sam continues her post Harry Potter career.  In both the book and novel I tried to see Sam as more than just object of affection. Sam as more than the free spirited girl who helps Charlie to come out of his shell and the quirky step-sister to Patrick who loves indy music.  There isn't really anything wrong with Sam or in Watson’s performance.  She is nice and like most teenage girls she has self esteem issues that she tries to fix it by male attention. Self esteem issues that stem from childhood.  Maybe I just have problems relating to these types of female characters. Yes! I knew and continue to know girls (and women) like her.  Sam is already on her journey of discovering who she is as an individual. By the end, through her friendships and experiences as she is on her way to university, she is one step closer to female independence and accepting the correct type of love. That is as deep as I can go when it comes to Sam’s character.

The actor and character in the film that shined the most to me was Ezra Miller as Patrick. The openly gay teen that is witty, has a zest for life and is cleaver and mature beyond his age. I know what you thinking! A flamboyant gay male character...how original?  Book Patrick and Ezra as film Patrick is more than that. Patrick is not flamboyant, but an open and happy and a mostly self assured person. There is a difference to me. There is a depth to Patrick that isn't often seen in “supporting” characters in a book. Ezra brings this to his acting as well in the film. I believe that an entirely separate book and film can be written about Patrick as well. I've only seen Ezra Miller in one other film, We Need to Talk About Kevin, and you can’t show much more versatility and range from playing Kevin, a deeply disturbed teenage killer, to Patrick.  He will be seen next as Leon in a new adaptation of the classic Madame Bovary (YAY! Another period piece from a classic novel I’ll watch.)  At only 20, this is a career and talent I looking forward to watching develop.

My minor complaint about the film is that when Patrick has his breakdown and is at his lowest, it did not go deep enough. For a period of time he lives off truckers pills and coffee, hooking up with randoms not to feel pain/hate but love. I understand that you can only do so much in a film adaptation, but with a character like Patrick, without going into specifics, when he becomes like this, it is eye opening and a learning experience for the characters and reader/viewer as well. It is one of the most poignant and saddest moments in the book and could have been more powerful scene(s) if expanded more in the film.

I cannot think of another example where the author of the novel also adapted the screenplay and directed the film. I think that is interesting and helped contribute the film’s success in keeping with the spirit and overall themes and message. It was also a good move to slim down the friendship between Charlie and his English teacher who gives him extra books on the side to further develop his writing and off course, further develop his knowledge of the world and himself. One thing that I found funny was that smoking cigarettes was not in the film. The characters (including Charlie) smoke. Hollywood is funny when it comes to depicting youth smoking, and possibly in an attempt to generalize the time of the film the smoking was cut out. We can have teens take drugs such as LSD, drink alcohol and be sexually active, but please don’t show them smoking. 

I also loved the look and feel of the film. The novel takes place late 1991 to the end of summer 1992. Without being obvious the film keeps the time period. There are no cell phones, laptops, Ipods or any of today’s devices. There are video tapes and this group of teens make mix tapes for one another. The fashions in certain scenes also give the time away. The music is awesome and helps to generalize the time and appeal to many viewers by using music from multiple decades, including David Bowie’s Heroes as a theme throughout.

You can do a quick tumblr search and will find many graphics with lines from The Perks of Being a Wallflower.  Most notably “We accept the love we think we deserve” and “We are infinite.” That may go into overkill  and cheesy territory but it does attest to the power of the story itself.

I may sound harsh, but this is a rare case of the film adaptation overall being faithful the spirit of a book. That is something I have seen a lot of writers, who are fully aware of unavoidable changes, are afraid of when having their work adapted to film. This is a example of both novel and book being equal in their own mediums. 

Book Review: Children of Liberty

For fans of Paullina Simon's work, in particular her Bronze Horseman ( AKA TBH) series, Children of Liberty, her latest book was both to be excited and nervous about.

Since this can be thought of as a prequel to TBH series, many already knew how the story of Jane and Harold Barrington ended, but not the "beginning" and "middle" parts of their story. I would say that Children of Liberty is  the start of their story. It didn't ruin the book for me, but I thought when Paullina Simons first announced she would be writing this book that would be more about  their actual life together and not as much about how they met. I believe there is still plenty of their story left to be told.  Since I have finished reading Children of Liberty, Paullina has mentioned in an interview (she’s doing a press tour now) that she is in the process writing another book about the "middle" of their story. So, I'm game!

Having said all that, the "beginning" is pretty good. It has the classic Paullina Simon’s slow build up and burn. I got more invested and engrossed  in the story and characters the further I read. The longing and the denial of feelings and what is expected of one, the culture and class clashes, old school thoughts and traditions during and start of a new century and the industrial revolution, which brought new opportunities to the world.   Both Harry and Gina rebel in this respect, hence the title Children of Liberty.  

That's another interesting aspect of the story. How Gina Anttaviano, an Italian immigrant coming to America becomes Jane Barrington.  How Harry Barrington, whose decedents arrived years before to America on the Mayflower and one of the wealthiest families in Boston becomes Harold Barrington. A couple that moves to Russia years later after the revolution in  the fervent belief of a new way of life. Sadly, their optimism also becomes their downfall.

As someone who read The Bronze Horseman series it was interesting and fun to see how characteristics from both mother and father are late seen  in their son, Alexander Barrington/Belov.  Harry/Harold’s practicality, sense of reason and business smarts, mixed with Gina/Jane’s feisty and passionate nature and “go get ‘em!” attitude.

One minor complaint I have about this book is all the dialogue and passages about politics and economics. I see Paullina's background as a financial journalist and political science major really coming through here. Even more so than in her other books. I understand with the era that the novel takes place in, and we know later on how politically involved both Harold and Jane become, the importance of showing the beginnings of this mindset and way of life they decide later on is needed. I don’t mean that she should have cut it all out, and it could just be me, but I thought a few times the conversations and passages with economic and political discussions brought the pace of the narrative down and I would have liked more scenes with Gina and Harry just being Gina and Harry- young and discovering their love for one another.  

There is beautiful writing (as expected by Mrs. Simons) that just rolls off the tongue like poetry. One particular passage that stuck out for me:

"Love is the strongest and deepest element in all life. The harbinger of hope, of ecstasy, the defier of all laws, of all conventions. Man has conquered nations, but all his armies could not conquer love. Man has subdued bodies, chained the spirit but he has been utterly helpless before love. High on a throne, yet he will remain poor and desolate if love passes him by. Love, ladies and gentleman, has the power to make out a beggar a king."

I don’t know about you, but that passage just sends shivers down my spine.

If you are fan of Paullina Simons work or want a good story of two people coming together and finding love, this is for you. 

So now I wait for the second and more heartbreaking part of Jane and Harold Barrington’s story. 

Playing Catch Up

I just wanted to play a bit of catch up on here and share some of the books and films that I have recently seen and read and enjoyed.  Some are not new releases, but a good book or film stands the test of time.

The Films

Nowhere Boy (2009)–Directed by Sam Taylor-Wood

This is a great little film about John Lennon’s teenage years. Being raised by his aunt and reconnecting with his biological mother Julia. All while surviving high school, discovering his love, passion and talent for music; and meeting a couple of guys named Paul and George along the way.

Ever since seeing Anna Karenina at TIFF, I’ve been on a bit of an Aaron Taylor-Johnson kick, so I’ve been watching and discovering some of his films.  A 19  (now 22) Aaron takes on the task of playing John Lennon. This would be intimidating to even the most seasoned actor, but Aaron does well with capturing John’s voice while talking and singing, playing the guitar and harmonica. He did this all for real.

With Kristin Scott Thomas playing his influential aunt Mimi, and Thomas Brodie–Sangster as a teenage Paul, there is a strong supporting cast and of course an awesome soundtrack needed for a film like this.

This is a must for any Beatle lover or a lover of music/biopics in general.

Kick Ass (2010) – Directed by Mathew Vaughn

I know, I know! I’ve only watched this now! If someone told me Aaron was in this as well, I would have seen it sooner. I’m going with the better late than never theory on this one.

I haven’t read any of the Kick Ass graphic novels, but the movie stands well enough on its own to explain and set up the world of not so likely superheroes led by Dave Lizewski AKA Kick Ass (Aaron).  I was really impressed with Aaron’s versatility in this one. After seeing him play a teenage John Lennon and Russian Calvary officer, he plays your typical American teenage boy who dreams of being a superhero and tests his theory of "What if an ordinary person became a superhero?"

This isn't your typical comic book/graphic novel based film. It knows what it is and plays on the genre. Add Chloe Grace Moretz as Hit Girl and Nicolas Cage as Big Daddy and you got yourself a fun film.

Kick Ass 2 is currently being filmed in Toronto, Ont, with a June 2013 release date. 

  

Albert Nobbs (2011) – Directed by Rodrigo Garcia

I wanted to see this one during last year’s awards season, but forgot and didn't get around until recently. Yes Aaron in this one as well (last one with him, I promise).  This film is about Albert Nobbs, who is played wonderfully by Glenn Close, a woman who after being orphaned at 14 decides to live as a man in order to work.  The film takes place in a posh Dublin Hotel where Albert Nobbs is the head butler.  Albert’s life changes after meeting Mr. Page, a painter  hired  for a renovation who has more in common with Albert than meets the eye.  Albert’s story also intertwines with the story of Joe (Aaron) and Helen (Mia Wasikowska), two young lovers who also work in the hotel.

This is interesting look at late 19^th century Ireland where single woman were discouraged to work in order  to support themselves and keep their gay lives a secret as well.

I  also found it interesting that Glenn Close co-wrote the script and spent years working to get this film financed and made.

The Books

Here are some books I recently lead and overall enjoyed.  Since it’s Thanksgiving Day here in Canada and I’m being lazy, I copied and pasted the summaries from the Goodreads website.  www.goodreads.com

Savages- Written by Don Winslow

 Part-time environmentalist and philanthropist Ben and his ex-mercenary buddy Chon run a Laguna Beach–based marijuana operation, reaping significant profits from their loyal clientele. In the past when their turf was challenged, Chon took care of eliminating the threat. But now they may have come up against something that they can’t handle—the Mexican Baja Cartel wants in, and sends them the message that a "no" is unacceptable. When they refuse to back down, the cartel escalates its threat, kidnapping Ophelia, the boys’ playmate and confidante. O’s abduction sets off a dizzying array of ingenious negotiations and gripping plot twists that will captivate readers eager to learn the costs of freedom and the price of one amazing high.

The writing style in this book is very different than from what I have read in past. It is short and fast pace to match the lifestyle these characters live .  At times you feel you are reading a text message with the author’s use of slang in the dialogue. The book also has a very modern and current feel and look at the world. In particular politics, the war on (some may argue for) drugs and the tense relationship between American and Mexico.

Without giving too much away, my main issues with the book is the ending and the character of Ophelia, known as O. I didn't see what was so special about her and her supposed intelligence.  It was still a solid book and entertaining read that looks into a world I have next to little knowledge of.

Despite the so-so reviews, I didn't get to see the film adaptation by Oliver Stone when it came out during the summer, but will watch it when it is available to rent in a couple weeks.

The Red Tent- Written by Anita Diamant

Her name is Dinah. In the Bible, her life is only hinted at in a brief and violent detour within the more familiar chapters of the Book of Genesis that are about her father, Jacob, and his dozen sons. Told in Dinah's voice, this novel reveals the traditions and turmoils of ancient womanhood--the world of the red tent. It begins with the story of her mothers--Leah, Rachel, Zilpah, and Bilhah--the four wives of Jacob. They love Dinah and give her gifts that sustain her through a hard-working youth, a calling to midwifery, and a new home in a foreign land. Dinah's story reaches out from a remarkable period of early history and creates an intimate connection with the past. Deeply affecting, The Red Tent combines rich storytelling with a valuable achievement in modern fiction: a new view of biblical women's society.

Now before you say “A Bible story?” this is a work of fiction inspired by a biblical story. As said so by the author herself.  You do not need to know the book of Genesis or be Christian or Jewish to understand the story. There is no preaching of any religion.

In the end this is a story about Dinah looking back on her life, from even before her conception. It is a look into an ancient culture and way of life and the lives of women in that culture.  The themes of family, love found and lost, betrayal and survival are common themes written time and time again.

A friend of mine who read this book years ago asked me a question about the last line, in particular the last word in the book and what it could mean.  Off the top of my head I told her it was not only about Dinah looking back and taking stock of her life, but the message was for all of us to do that as well.  That no matter where and when you live, to be grateful for the blessings in our lives and make the most of the hardships as well.  I believe that anyone can benefit from that.

Sidenote- As I mentioned I’m in a lazy mood today, but I have also read (and become slightly obsessed) with George R.R. Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire Series, also known as A Game of Thrones. I'm not going to get into every book. 

I have read the first three books and watched the first two seasons of HBO’s equally impressive miniseries adapted from the books.  (I'm waiting for a friend to catch up and I don't want to get too ahead of the series). The themes of family, politics, power, loyalty, betrayal, and love all come together. It is a great series that blends fantasy in a fictional medieval setting with some memorable characters. It is a brutal world where the good don’t always win and prosper and even die. As the saying goes, “Absolute power corrupts, absolutely.”  

Or as Cersei Lannister would say “When you play the game of thrones, you win or you die.”

The order of books are:

Book 1-Game of Thrones

Book 2- A Clash of Kings

Book 3- A Storm of Swords

Book 4- A Feast for Crows

Book 5- A Dance with Dragons

Book 6- The Winds of Winter (release date to be announced)

Currently Reading...

Children of Liberty- Written by Paullina Simons

At the turn of the century and the dawning of the modern world, Gina from Belpasso comes to Boston’s Freedom Docks to find a new and better life, and meets Harry Barrington, who is searching for his.

The fates of the Barringtons and Attavianos become entwined, on a collision course between the old and new, between what is expected and what is desired, what is chosen and what is bestowed, what is given and what is taken away.

As America races headlong into the future, much will be lost and much will be gained for Gina and Harry, whose ill-fated love story will break your heart.

I have six chapters left in this book, so I will probably finish it today.  Paullina Simons is one of my favourite contemporary writers. Those that know me personally will know that her Bronze Horseman series are my favourite books and series that I have ever read. I have read and will read some of her other novels, but this particular series has affected me unlike any other books.  A recommendation for anyone.

Children of Liberty can be thought of as a prequel to The Bronze Horseman series, but can also be read as a standalone book. 

Happy reading and viewing everyone!

Film Review: The Master

Directed and written by: Paul Thomas Anderson. Stars: Joaquin Phoenix, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Amy Adams. Released September 2012

After two attempts to view The Master during TIFF, I finally was able to see it the old fashioned way once it was officially released. On top of the critical buzz and acclaim that the film is receiving, I’m also a fan of Paul Thomas Anderson’s work (There Will be Blood, Magnolia, Punch Drunk Love) and was eager to see Joaquin Phoenix’s return from “retirement” after three years since his last film.

I will admit that I didn’t fully understand the film. I’m still thinking about it and trying to make complete sense of it, so please bear with me. I actually see that as both a negative and positive for the film.  A second viewing is in order at some point.  It’s not the easiest film to talk about without seeing it and I don’t want to give much away. It's not the most linear and straight forward of films, and with the slow pace and being two hours and 20 minutes long, it may not be for everyone. It reminded me of French Noir or Italian Neo-Realism type films of the 1950’s and 1960’s where we seem to only get a glimpse of the character's lives and not the whole story, where there is no clear cut beginning -middle-end. We get jumps in time (both forward and back), and certain plot points are not fully explained.

I bet you REALLY want to see it now! I just had to get all that out of the way before I get to why I did overall enjoy the film and why for film lovers it is worth to see it.

Before I continue I want to share a few lines from Canadian film critic Richard Crouse 's review of the film that may also help to clear my and your confusion.

“It’s impossible to deny the correlation between “The Master” and the origins of Scientology. No story about a midcentury mystic starting a religion based on sci fi could avoid the comparison, but Tom Cruise and John Travolta needn’t boycott the film. Director Paul Thomas Anderson simply uses the birth of the religion as a backdrop for a study in extreme behavior focusing on two troubled men, Lancaster Dodd (Philip Seymour Hoffman) and Freddie Quell (Joaquin Phoenix).

Quell, a WWII vet with a taste for gut rot hooch and post traumatic stress disorder drifts through life until he meets Dodd, a self described "writer, doctor, nuclear physicist, theoretical philosopher [and] hopelessly inquisitive man." Dodd is the godhead of a new movement called The Cause aimed at maximizing human potential. His disciples, who believe his mix of sci fi and religion will rid them of past trauma, call him the Master.

[...]

“The Master” won’t satisfy those who like their stories tied up in neat bows. It is an enigmatic story about impenetrable people; an opaque, singular experience that is best thought of as a tone poem about man’s aspirations and failures.”

For more of Richard’s review-http://www.richardcrouse.ca/2322/index.html

The performances are what stand out and are the most memorable about the film, Joaquin as Freddie in particular. To me it is his best performance (and yes I’m including Walk the Line, Two Lovers and Gladiator). As mentioned before, Freddie Quell is a very troubled man and full of pain, emotionally, mentally and physically. My back hurt just watching Joaquin hunch over like he was Quasimodo. You feel for him and then you are angry at him. He embodies his character completely. The minor complaint is that since Freddie’s left half his face is suffering some nerve damage (probably from his self made moonshine) there were times at the start I found it difficult to understand what he was saying. Again it’s minor and no doubt Joaquin will be seen come awards season. Not just one of the strongest performances of the year, but last few years.

Philip Seymour Hoffman is powerful as the titled Master and matches Phoenix perfectly. Richard Crouse is right in his review when he says had this film been done during Hollywood’s golden era, Orson Welles would have played Lancaster Dodd. He’s charming, he’s intimidating and powerful but approachable as well, but something not really right underneath it all. He embodies everything that you think a leader of a movement (cult?) would have to have.

With the two performances of Phoenix and Hoffman matching one another and playing off each other so well, the dynamic, energy and chemistry between the two is awesome.

Amy Adams rounds out the strong cast as Lancastar’s wife. On paper reading about the character she would not have been the first to come to mind, but she shows her versatility once again.  This is most likely my vain side coming out, but I was surprised that they seemed to have aged Amy up and ugglied her up as well. Add the grandma like wardrobe (so sad for a film taking place in 1950 when there was such beautiful clothing that time).  It works in the end for the tough as nails wife.

It is also a technically well done film. It includes some of the best tracking shots and long shots I've seen recently . The close ups are not overdone and thus maximize the emotional impact. Typical of Anderson’s recent style.Anderson once again teams up with his There Will Be Blood composer, the talented Jonny Greenwood (Radiohead) for an intense original soundtrack. 

The Master is more than just is it about Scientology or not? Yes, religion or cult is a theme, but it is also about man (or humans) place in the world, betrayal and friendship, goals and failures. These are themes that anyone can relate to. 

My TIFF Experience Part Two: The Stars!

This is what you all really wanted to know about, right? The beautiful people, the famous people, and the closest thing to royalty we have in North America. Or as the volunteers and others working the festival were suppose to refer to them, “the talent.”

We (and by we I mean the volunteers) were warned early on during our orientation session and throughout the festival, even in our volunteer manuals, that were not to have our cell phones, cameras, screenplays, business cards, etc during our shifts and approach “the talent” or any other person involved in the business if we were to come across them.

It reminded me of the ‘do not feed the animals’ signs at zoos.

At least Madonna wasn’t around this year to make the volunteers turn around and not look at her as she walked the red carpet. I was told this by another volunteer who worked the festival last year.

On my first day of working I was an ACE where we are sent to the other venues that need help. It was a Friday and day two of the festival. I’m sitting in the ACE lounge in a corner on the fourth floor of the TIFF Bell Lightbox waiting for my instructions while making small talk with other volunteers (Hey Beatrice!) About six of us (including Beatrice) get sent to the Ryerson Theatre, conveniently at Ryerson University downtown Toronto.  It’s a nice big theatre where some premieres happen during the festival.  I was told by the volunteer captain Flora that the night before got little crazy (understandably) once Kristen Stewart showed up for the On the Road premiere. A part of me wished I was there.

Anyway, we were in between screenings and I was placed in the position of ‘link.’ To backup a little- a ‘link’ is part of a human chain that creates a barrier between the fans waiting for an autograph/picture of the ‘talent’ as they walk the red carpet or sneak off to their waiting car at a super secret escape route at the back of the theatre after a premiere.  The screening for Imogen had finished and there was already a group of people waiting in the back. So as our captain tells me and the fellow linkers to “LINK UP!” we form our barrier. A sleek Audi drives up and within seconds Daren Chris from Glee (who’s in Imogen) walks out with his parents in front. I don’t watch Glee but I’m aware of who he is, so I was all “okay” as he took pictures with fans and signed autographs. Shortly after we are told again to “LINK UP!” and Kristen Wigg from Saturday Night Live walks out. She seemed a little surprised at having people waiting for her and did her best to get to as many fans as she could, thanking them, etc. (P.S. She was wearing a cute green dress.) Of course, her people told her she had to get going and apologized for not getting to more fans. So that was pretty cool. It all happened fairly quickly and then we had time to set up for the next event.

Oh wait! Did I mention that in between Daren Chris and Kristen Wigg, director Jason Reitman (Young Adult, Up in the Air, Juno) sneaks in through the crowd and goes into the Ryerson Theatre. I don’t know what he was doing there and why. Maybe he wanted to see Spring Breakers.  

The premier of Spring Breakers was a big one and there were many fans and media waiting for the actors to come. I saw Matt Babel from Entertainment Canada (former Much Music VJ) and Jessie from MTV Canada.

This time I was in the front, helping with the ticket holder and the rush lines. I wasn’t that close, but I could still see the red carpet happening and I could see the ‘talent’ coming one after another. Vanessa Hudgens, Selena Gomez (I almost went death from the screaming of “SELENA!”) and no, Bieber was not there with her.  Then....the man himself, the man who cut his arm off and got to host The Academy Awards came. James Franco. They all got to as many fans as they could, talk to the media and went inside. I was then sent for my break so I didn’t get the see any of them leave.  Not much involving talent after my break that night so I’ll move on.

It would have been cool to stay until the midnight madness premiere of Seven Psychopaths.  I might have been able to see Collin Farrell, Sam Rockwell and Christopher Walken. I did see Rockwell and Walken when I was in New York a few years ago when they were in a off-Broadway play, A Behanding in Spokane, but still.

The next day I was a little more prepared. I looked up to remind myself what films were premiering that night, and knew that Cloud Atlas and The Silver Linings Playbook were premiering. I was torn between the possibility of seeing Katniss Everdeen or Forest Gump (Jennifer Lawrence or Tom Hanks). I was back at ACE lounge waiting for instructions and was told to head down the street to the Princess of Whales theatre.

Forest Gump beat out Katniss.

Now I didn’t actually get to see Tom Hanks, Halle Berry, Hugh Grant, Hugo Weaving, Jim Sturgess or Tom Tykwer for the Cloud Atlas premier. I was busy in another part of the theatre so I didn’t get to see them. *Insert sad face.*

There was no time to be sad since there were only forty minutes between the end of Cloud Atlas (it’s a long film) and the start of the End of Watch premiere. I was relocated to the front of theatre to help with the crowds, the lines and yes! once again I was link. I didn’t realize there was another premiere after so I was pleasantly surprised.

Typical for an event this big, there was a lot of people around (even across the street) media, and even police.

It is important to know that the Princess of Whales theatre is in a very busy part of Toronto. The excitement was gaining as the time drew closer and the word got out that Jake Gyllenhaal was coming.  As we were waiting for the talent to arrive and the crowds were growing, I randomly see Canadian director Atom Egoyan (Chloe, The Sweet Hereafter, Erotica,) at least I’m 99% sure it was him, randomly walk down the street unfazed by all the commotion. Then the talent started to arrive.

Anna Kendrick showed up, very pretty and I was surprised at how small she is. Take away the heels she was wearing and she couldn’t have more than two or three inches taller than me. Also, the actresses wear a lot of make-up, but once the lights and flashes do their thing and you look at the pictures, it looks normal. Other cast members showed up (including America Ferrera and Michael Pena) but the crowd was waiting for one particular man. The crowds grew as more and more people walking by stopped and watched; taking pictures, asking what is going on. The crowd got to a standstill and no one was moving. Even the police instructions to keep the sidewalk clear and pedestrians moving were being ignored and partly unheard through all the noise. I was doing my best to yell and keep the line moving while waiting for Jake to arrive and “LINK UP!” I was getting pushed closer and closer onto the street where there were streetcars and other traffic still moving. It could have gone really bad.

At least I would have died among the glitz and glamour of it all like I’m supposed to.

The he arrived! I was linking up and he came out of the SUV all dressed up. He was greeted by some man and welcomed back to Toronto and TIFF when he came out of his car and replied “thank you.” Yes, I could hear his voice and he sounds just like he does in films/interviews. I was that close! (around six feet or less.) His blue eyes stood out among the dark hair and the dark suit. He walked by and the pain from the metal barricade pressing into my back went away. Then he continued down the carpet, did his media interviews, sign autographs and went inside. My time with Jake Gyllenhaal was under a minute and it was awesome! 

I heard before from people that have met male actors that they are better looking in person, and I thought that was crazy. After seeing Jake in person and even comparing the pictures from that night, I have to agree. He looks haggard in the pictures from that night compared to what I saw. They are like super-humans or something.  A lot was said during the festival about his beard and I didn’t realize until the other day that it is for an off-Broadway play he is now doing in New York that just opened.

After the first weekend of the festival most of the big premieres and the talent with them were done and gone.  I didn’t see anyone else after Jake.  My friend (who had a movie she worked on premiere at TIFF as well) told me that she saw Viggo Mortensen in her office building. That would have been cool. I think Viggo would be one of the few famous people who I would just bow down and say “I’m not worthy” a la Wayne’s World.  

Some of the actors that I would have liked to have seen but didn’t were Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Keira Knightley, Ryan Gosling, Johnny Depp, Colin Firth and David Cronenberg (just to name a few) but I can’t complain.

P.S. To the cute man  from Niagara Falls who was in front of me waiting in line for three hours to see The Master. I'm sorry I didn't get your name. We had a great time geeking out and talking about film. I hope you are well and maybe we will see each other at TIFF '13! 

So that was my brush with Hollywood and the famous people. I went in not knowing what to expect and had an amazing time. I would love to work the festival again and most likely will. I just don’t know where life will take me a year from now. We shall see. I feel motivated and inspired after working the 2012 Toronto International Film Festival. 

My TIFF Experience-Part 1: The Films

Physically sore and tired, but exhilarating and inspired all at the same time. That is how I would describe my   TIFF –AKA -The Toronto International Film Festival experience as a volunteer! 

 I got to the city a day before the festival actually started for a training session. I was already physically sore from lugging a big suitcase around where the handle to pull it was broken, so I couldn't even use the wheels on it to pull it around, so imagine little me with a big red suitcase and other bags. Yes I got looks a plenty. At the training session every other volunteer around me (all different types of personalities and backgrounds) was nervous and excited as well, but those in charge assured us that things will be great and at best organized chaos.  Organized chaos indeed, it was that at the best of times!

The buzz of the city during TIFF is unlike anything I’ve experienced here before.

I had two positions as a volunteer. One was at a particular theatre, where I helped with line/crowd control and organization, ushering, ripping tickets and answering tons and tons of various questions such as, “When does the 7pm showing of [insert film] start?” My response, “The 7pm showing of [insert film] is scheduled to start on time at 7pm.”

You may be laughing, but for those of you who have done any retail or costumer service type jobs know that these types of questions (and we may be guilty of them ourselves) come up.

My second position as a volunteer is called an ACE position. That is where you show up to the Bell Lightbox (festival headquarters) at the start of your shift, some waiting may happen, and then get told to which venue to go to that needs extra help. This is where a lot my excitement and brush with Hollywood happened. More on that later!

My first shift was not until day two of the festival so on day one I wanted to see a film. Before I left for the festival I already had a list of movies and times they were playing. So on day one I knew that Joe Wright’s adaptation of Anna Karenina was playing. What I didn’t know was that it was a press screening, so my poor sister was not able to see it with me since I was allowed to use one of my volunteer vouchers for this. So I ditched my sister and waited in line for almost two hours to “rush” the film.

P.S. to “rush” a film means to wait in line before and hope for no shows/extra seats go on sale about ten minutes before the film. This doesn’t always happen with every film and not everyone in the “rush” line gets in at times. I rushed most of the films I did see. 

It was odd being in a press screening with critics and other media types. They are all pretty much on their phones and even laptops to the last minute. Talking about the films they are going to see, have seen or their deadlines for writing their reviews, etc. There are no commercials or previews. The movie just starts.

Anna Karenina

Directed by: Joe Wright

Visually stunning (as if you couldn’t tell from the trailer alone) from the staging, cinematography, costumes, choreography, etc, and a bold attempt to do something different with a classic novel that has been adapted many times before and not make it feel like another costume drama. This is exemplified by setting the film on an old theatrical stage, as if the Russian Aristocracy is living their lives as actors.  The chemistry between Keira Knightley (Anna) and Aaron Taylor-Johnson (Count Vronsky) is hot! Beautifully seen in an elaborate dance sequence that’s a metaphor for the two falling in love. The one complaint I and many other critics have is that these two characters feel too high-schoolish and melodramatic at times.  Knightley, although not terrible in the film, due to her history with period pieces, her performance doesn't feel like anything new.  Many also noted that the spirit of  Leo Tolstoy’s story got a little lost in the visual spectacle, partially understandable due to the length and density of Tolstoy’s novel. There is also a great supporting cast and subplot that is equally captivating. I also have to say that Jude Law as Alexei Karenin is one of his best performances of late and a supporting actor nomination this award season could follow.

One other recommendation! This is a must see on the big screen!

Camp 14: Total Control Zone

Directed by: Marc Wiese

One of the amazing aspects of a film festival is the smaller and lesser known films that may never see the light of day after the festival. I was lucky to watch a documentary that I would recommend to anyone who wants to know more about the world around them, in particular what is or has happened in North Korea.

This is the story of 29 year old Shin Dong-huyk who was born and raised in a North Korean labour camp and his escape in 2004 when was 20. His biological mother was a “reward” to his biological father for good conduct in the prison. I use “biological” since they were not an actual family unit. I don't want to say too much about his story and this documentary, but if you come across it, PLEASE watch. 

Warning! This film deals with graphic and heavy subject matter and some footage. So this film may not be for everyone.

Great Expectations

Directed by: Mike Newell

Yes another costume drama and adaptation of a classic novel. I can’t help it, I love them!

I didn’t know much about the film itself, outside of a general knowledge of Charles Dickens novel. I and my good friend were very surprised with how much we enjoyed this film.  She’s a little biased since she has a crush on Jeremy Irvine who plays Pip. (Don’t hate me Shannon!) All kidding aside this is another beautifully made film (same director as Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, Prince of Persia, Four Weddings and a Funeral and more)  and solid acting from a who’s who of British actors that includes Ralph Fiennes and Helena Bonham Carter. As well as Holliday Grainger (The Borgias, Bad Mothers Handbook, Bel Ami) as the cold hearted Estella who is loved by Pip.

I knew that I had a minor issue with this film and it took talking about it with my friend afterwards to finally put my (or our) finger on it. It has to do with the characterization of Miss. Havisham. Helena Bonham Carter is a talented actress, but at times the portrayal of Miss. Havisham came off more comedic and almost sympathetic. I’m not sure if this a result of her acting, direction, the writing or all of that combined, but there were times when her lines made the audience laugh, and we are not suppose to laugh at her. She is one of bad ones. She is manipulative, decrepit, bitter and overall pathetic. She is the one that trains and uses Estella to “wreak revenge on mankind” for the betrayal she suffered years before on her wedding day. She does nothing redeeming or believes any wrong has been done by her. It is still a great adaptation overall and I recommend it. 

Ginger and Rosa

Directed by: Sally Potter

In every film festival there is at least one "coming of age" genre film. That little indy about the pains of being a teenager, or twenty-something and discovering who you are, and they can be done well. This year The Perks of Being A Wallflower is generating great buzz (as well as being based on a best selling book with a large fan base). I didn't get a chance to see that, but will check it out when it comes out in theatre in a matter of weeks. 

Add my love of all things British (or UK for that matter) and set it in 1960's London, I was more than willing to see this film when my friend scored tickets.  This film is about two best friends  (essentially from birth)  and the crumbling of the relationship, due to betrayal and reaction/fears of the Cold War and the pending A-bomb.  Despite good performances, lovely cinematography, a soundtrack reflecting the epic decade,  I was more in the so-so category at the end. The story did attempt not to be that typical "coming of age" film, but at the end fell into some stereotypes when it came to the characterization and justifying some of their actions. Elle Fanning's attempt at an English accent is a little distracting as well.  I don't regret seeing this film and it would not be a waste of two hours watching it. 

Of course I would have loved to have seen more films, and I did try to rush The Master twice with no luck.  I'm happy with the ones I did see and tt seemed to have been a solid year for films this year. 

For those interested, here is a link to a list of the winners (chosen by a public vote). http://tiff.net/thefestival/festivalawards

And a recap from one hard to please critic.  http://collider.com/tiff-2012-recap/195759/

Stay tuned for part two of my TIFF experience: The stars!