Tips for snagging TIFF tickets to your favourite film

TORONTO – Robert Downey Jr, Al Pacino, Jennifer Aniston, Tina Fey, Reese Witherspoon, Octavia Spencer and Denzel Washington are just some of the stars expected in Toronto when the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) begins September 4.

The TIFF Program Book is now available.  Charlotte Davis is a fan and picked hers up and is looking forward to planning her week of film watching and celebrity spotting.

“I’m excited. I’ve been going to TIFF for 15 years,” she said.  “It’s a great week in Toronto.”

There are a variety of ticket packages to choose from:  a single regular adult ticket to a TIFF film is $24 while  a premium ticket to a red carpet premiere is $46.

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“It’s much more than just going to see a movie.  It’s being here when films are being shown for the first time.  It’s getting a chance to hear what actors and directors have to say about the film and that’s a really amazing experience,” said Davis.  “It’s a lot more than just a movie ticket.”

Marriska Fernandes, an assistant editor at Tribute Entertainment. agreed, saying it’s easier to catch a photo with a celebrity during a red carpet premiere.

“There’s a chance you could ask questions at the screening.  You have unparalleled access to the directors,” she said.

But Film buffs know getting tickets to your favourite TIFF film isn’t always easy.

“It is difficult because I know people lining up and going on-line and they’re booked or gone, so it’s hard for them,” said Fernandes.

She suggests checking out different packages online and getting your tickets before the festival starts.

Danny Pivnick has attended TIFF over the past 20 years and suggests buying tickets online rather than waiting in line.

“Individual ticket buyers sometimes stand in line for rush tickets and they come available too but it’s taking your chances,” he said.

There are often a limited number of rush tickets, so it’s not guaranteed you’ll get one.  They are cheaper than regular tickets and cost $20.

“On day of the screening itself there are many tickets available at 7 a.m,” said Fernandes.

“It’s not too late.  You still have a chance, so grab them while you can.”