This year marks the forty-first annual Toronto International Film Festival. TIFF, one of the largest film festivals in the world, is internationally recognized as one of the most prestigious and high-profile celebrations of film and culture. So, it’s only natural that every year this event attracts several celebrated and outstanding members of the film community from all around the globe.
Right at the heart of the Entertainment District, many of TIFF’s venues are located along King Street West. On the first Friday of the festival, I was walking along this street, completely unaware of any TIFF premieres that were taking place that afternoon. As I made my way closer to the Princess of Wales Theatre, I was greeted by a crowd of about a thousand screaming fans. Admittedly, my curiosity got the best of me and I decided to investigate the cause of all of this commotion.
As it turns out, I had made it just in time for the red carpet appearances for the premiere of Fisher Stevens’ documentary film, Before the Flood. This film explores the environmental implications of climate change, and most notably, it stars Oscar-winning actor Leonardo DiCaprio. And surely enough, there he was front and centre, sporting a striking navy blue suit along with a perfect tan and his signature boyish smile.
Immediately, I was struck by the very clear divide between the enthusiastic, starstruck fans and the cynical Torontonians who were simply trying to cross the street. The former proudly declared their love for Leo as they screamed out: “Leo! We love you, Leo! Over here, Leo!” Meanwhile, frustrated pedestrians made aggressive comments, such as: “Who the fuck cares? They’re regular people too! Get the hell out of my way!”
I found myself somewhere in the middle of all of this chaos. Sure, I was dazzled to be standing so close to such a charming and talented actor but somehow it felt very surreal. I suddenly began to feel extremely self-conscious as I stood among the horde of shouting people and I became very aware of what it felt like be a part of a crowd fawning over the presence of a handsome celebrity. In all honesty, I realized that I felt pretty ridiculous. I decided to leave the crowd and make my way back to the subway.
TIFF is a staple of the arts and culture scene here in Toronto. The festival, which spans over a 10-day period, is a very exciting time for lovers of film and celebrity culture alike. Sometimes, these experiences unfold right in front of you when you least expect them. Nonetheless, this only adds to the unpredictable and exhilarating nature of this festival. No matter which side you find yourself on, whether it is enthusiastic or irritated, TIFF’s intoxicating atmosphere is an experience like no other.
