And so it begins…

The centerpiece of the festival was a large, amazing ice sculpture in the shape of a hockey rink. Little square shot glasses of vodka were set in holes in the rink. People could take one out and slide it around on the ice. Later on, some pucks came out and were tossed around on the rink like an air hockey table. Seeing people have fun and play during all the mayhem of the festival is a refreshing sight to see.

My dear friend Justin got right into the theme of the night and enjoyed some Pink Candy Popcorn. I didn’t even know they made it still!

Although the place was packed with local filmmakers, TIFF staff and international delegates, there were some recognisable faces in the crowd. Callum Keith Rennie (Californication, Harpers Island)  made an appearance, as did actor/director David Schwimmer and Canadian comedian David Foley. Funny story about seeing David…when he came into the venue, Justin and I happened to be by the doors and I start seeing cameras going off everywhere. I turn to Justin and ask “Is that David Schwimmer?” at the same time that he asked me “Where did that lady get popcorn?”. I literally had to turn his head away from the delicious food long enough to see ‘Ross’. Justin then proceeded to sing the Friends theme song all the way to the popcorn booth. That sums us up: I’m looking for the excitement. He’s looking for the food.

Many local artists came out too, including Metric. I love these guys. Sooo good!

Before the party last night, I picked up my badge and my swag bag. It was full of lots of great goodies, like a Pizza Nova gift card, 3D glasses to use on the NFB website, information on the upcoming Tim Burton exhibit, Blackberry Mints (sooo good!) and even a pack of microwave popcorn.

I’ve gone through all the program guides, circling the films that I really want to catch while they’re at the festival. I’m trying to focus on international films that may not go to theatres here in Canada, however its hard not to be tempted to go see some of the big features screening this year.

Leading up to the festival, I tried to get as much done as I could beforehand. My favorite high heels are out and polished (sort of…). I’ve ironed all my dresses and shirts (well…most of them….wrinkles are in, right?). And I tried to stock the fridge up with healthy and delicious food options to deter me from taking advantage of all the easily avaliable junk food around.

Well I’m off to some screenings and then cocktail party fun. I’ll be sure to keep you guys posted on how the festival is going!

Be sure to check out Whiskey’s coverage of the festival last year! (including an appearance by the one and only George Clooney!)