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TIFF 2019: Nespresso Coffee With Creators With Dakota Johnson and Jason Segel

16 September, 2019 Nelia

A very intimate affair, the Nespresso Coffee With Creators chat was one of my personal highlights of the festival. The event started bright and early on a Saturday morning, but thankfully, Nespresso took great care of us, with plenty of delicious java on offer. Jason Segel, who was the first cast member to arrive, made a beeline for the coffee area, introduced himself to the Nespresso baristas, and requested a “medium coffee with a splash of cream”. As a fan of Segel’s work ever since Freaks and Geeks, I was delighted to see how friendly and personable the actor was with everyone he interacted with, introducing himself with a smile, appearing relaxed and in good spirits.

The morning’s conversation was held in support of the world premiere of Gabriela Cowperthwaite-directed film The Friend, starring Dakota Johnson and Jason Segel, based on a true story about a husband dealing with his wife’s terminal cancer, and the couple’s best friend who moves into the family’s home to help out. The director and the stars were joined by Matthew Teague, the real-life husband whose story the film was based on, screenwriter Brad Ingelsby, and producer Michael Pruss. From the challenges of playing a “real” person, to the fun ways the stars got to shake off the difficult subject matter after a day of shooting, the conversation proved to be both insightful and entertaining, making the time fly by. And while I didn’t catch the film during the festival, it’s definitely on my list now.

It’s always a pleasure and a privilege, to watch the cast and crew share intimate insights about their work, and this year Nespresso (the official coffee sponsor of TIFF) and the Coffee With Creators panel series focused on supporting local, up-and-coming filmmakers, as well as established talent like Dakota Johnson and Jason Segel. If you’re curious, you can watch the chat on Deadline’s website, and if you’d like to read the heartbreaking 2015 Esquire article the film was based on, you can read it here.

More photos after the jump!
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TIFF 2019: Endings, Beginnings After Party with HUGO BOSS

11 September, 2019 Nelia

While my fave thing to do during TIFF is watching as many movies as I can squeeze into my schedule, going to celeb-studded film after parties is a close second. This past Sunday, I got a chance to do both! After watching the latest Drake Doremus film Endings, Beginnings starring Shailene Woodley, Jamie Dornan, and Sebastian Stan, my friend Sharon and I attended the film’s after party hosted by HUGO BOSS at downtown’s Montecito restaurant. The film, about a woman torn between two very different men was right up my alley – in the infamous words of Stefan – it had EVERYTHING: a complex female protagonist, steamy romance, gorgeous scenery, drool-worthy wardrobe, and of course, two of the hottest leading men in the industry. So just imagine our excitement when we found ourselves feet away from these men (and Shailene) later at the HUGO BOSS party, trying (and failing) to keep our cool.

After a round of pinball, a couple of ginger beers, quick hellos to friends and acquaintances, and what felt like an eternity of getting up the courage to chat up the stars in attendance, we inched our way closer to Sebastian Stan until we were standing back-to-back with the Winter Soldier himself. Another eternity later, a glass of red wine in his hand, Sebastian was grilling us on our thoughts about the movie, admitting that after several TIFFs he still hasn’t really seen Toronto properly, and being very tight-lipped about his upcoming MCU show The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, revealing only that the story is going to be “complex and incredible” (can’t wait!). Stan was understandably jet-lagged after his morning flight from London, but that didn’t stop him from enjoying the party, and being very generous with his time. As I shared on Instagram, meeting your fave celebs isn’t always what it’s cracked up to be, but I walked away from our quick interaction with Sebastian a true stan.

Meanwhile, Jamie Dornan, just behind Sebastian, was chatting with Soho House Toronto’s Markus Anderson and publicist Evelyn Karamanos, keeping to his corner of the VIP, and Shailene Woodley, having taken off her oversized denim jacket, was all smiles nearby, swaying to the music, and taking photos with delighted attendees. Drake Doremus, Lindsay Sloane, Matthew Gray Gubler, and Shamier Anderson were also working the room, everyone in great spirits. And that’s the thing about this beautiful cast…they all seemed to genuinely like each other, with Dornan professing his adoration of Stan’s character in the post-film Q&A, telling the giddy audience that while watching the film, he “fell deeply, madly in love with Sebastian Stan”. Same, Jamie, same.

More photos after the jump!
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You Are Invited: TIFF Oscars Viewing Party 2019

22 February, 2019 Nelia

This year’s Academy Awards seem especially unpredictable. First, Kevin Hart was cancelled as the host, then several categories weren’t going to be presented on TV, before the Academy re-instated them back to prime time, not to mention all of the controversy surrounding audience faves Green Book and Bohemian Rhapsody. For the first time in 30 years, the Oscars will go on without a host, and to mark such a historical occasion, why not join other cinephiles at the TIFF Oscars Viewing Party?! With plenty of Oscars-themed drinks and award-worthy snacks, an Oscars pool, and an occasion to dress up on Oscars night…it’s going to be a night to remember. Sadly, I am out of town, and won’t be able to attend, but you still can!

WHEN: Sunday, February 24
Pre-show: 6:30pm
Telecast: 8pm–12am
TIFF Bell Lightbox

Photo Credits: Time Magazine

You Are Invited: TIFF 2018 Events

3 September, 2018 Nelia

TIFF 2018 is mere days away, and I don’t know about you, but I’ve been looking forward to it for weeks now, picking out films I’m going to watch, and figuring out the celebs I’ll be hoping to spot around town. And in case you’re just as excited as me, below are a few fun events you can attend during the festival, in addition to watching all of the films.

Share Her Journey Rally
Stand up for change with TIFF on the morning of Saturday, September 8 for the Share Her Journey Rally. All who want to see and be part of real change in the film industry are invited to join the action down on John Street at the Slaight Music Stage at 10am. With the support of partners ReFrame, TIME’S UP, and #AfterMeToo, we will hear from thought leaders and inspirational guests including:
– Dr. Stacy L. Smith, Founder and Director of the USC Annenberg Inclusion Initiative, the leading global think tank studying issues of inequality in entertainment;
– Amanda Brugel, actor;
– Keri Putnam, Executive Director of Sundance Institute;
– Mia Kirshner, actor, and co-founder of #AfterMeToo;
– Amma Asante, filmmaker ( Belle, United Kingdom, and Where Hands Touch)
– Cathy Schulman, President, Welle Entertainment;
– Nandita Das, filmmaker ( Firaaq, Manto) and actor;
– Zavia Forrest, TIFF Next Wave Committee member

RSVP at shareherjourney.org/rally to join the event.

TTC Free Screening
TIFF has once again partnered with the TTC to help film fans get access to great movies for FREE. Street teams are set to distribute free Festival and TIFF Bell Lightbox tickets, culminating in a special TTC Free Screening at Roy Thomson Hall on September 9. This Festival event is open to all TTC riders — just bring your Metropass or PRESTO card for entry!*

More after the jump!
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You Are Invited: TIFF Summer 2018

28 June, 2018 Nelia

If you don’t have any travel plans this summer or just want to escape the heat for a couple of hours, TIFF summer programming’s got you covered. I’ve been going to the movies so much lately, but there are so many great films to see, I just can’t help myself. There are films for fashion lovers, like the upcoming Vivienne Westwood documentary Westwood: Punk, Icon, Activist (Jun 29 – Jul 5), and movies that will whisk you away to Italy or Japan thanks to programs like Summer in Japan (Jul 5 – Sep 1), Modernist Master: Michelangelo Antonioni (Jun 6 – Jul 21), and Maestro! The Films of Luchino Visconti (Jul 26 – Aug 19). I am especially looking forward to the Italian line-up, having grown up watching a lot of these films as a kid, and now fully obsessed with all of the timeless costumes. I am also super excited about the new 4K digital restoration of the Luis Buñuel’s classic Belle de Jour (opens on July 27th), with stylish costumes designed by none other than Yves Saint Laurent.

If you love film, fashion, and travel, you should definitely pay a visit (or several) to TIFF Bell Lightbox this summer. Don’t miss this rare chance to see some of these magnificent films on the big screen, you won’t regret it.

Westwood: Punk, Icon, Activist
https://www.tiff.net/films/westwood-punk-icon-activist/

Belle de Jour
https://www.tiff.net/films/belle-de-jour/

L’Avventura
https://www.tiff.net/films/lavventura/

Blow-up
https://www.tiff.net/films/blow-up/
Photo Credits: TIFF

Holidays 2017: Last-Minute Gifts That Don’t Suck

13 December, 2017 Nelia

We are less than two weeks away from Christmas, and I am happy to report that I am pretty much done with my gift shopping. If you’re still stumped about what to get for your friends and family, here are some last-minute gift ideas that (we think) don’t suck. You obviously have to know a bit about the person you are getting the gift for, but I doubt someone would be disappointed with any of these presents.

1. Their Fave Drink
If the person you’re shopping for loves to host parties, or if you know what their drink of choice is, then getting a beautiful gift set from LCBO is a no-brainer. I love this Grey Goose Martini Pack ($59.95), but there are lots of other gift set options available.
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2. Luxurious Touchscreen Gloves
Gloves are one of those things that people tend to lose all the time, so giving someone a beautiful new pair would certainly be appreciated. These Quill and Tine touchscreen beauties ($89) aren’t only made with 100% Italian lambskin and cashmere, but they are also crafted in Canada.
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3. The Gift of Film
If your person is a film lover (and who isn’t?!), then the gift of TIFF Membership (starting at $49) is one of the best presents you can buy. With exclusive year-round savings and perks, ticket pre-sales, discounts, and special offers and events, this is the gift that will keep on giving all year long. If you don’t live in Toronto, annual membership to their fave museum or art gallery would also make for an awesome present.

4. Comfy Pajamas
I am not sure if it’s just me, but I loooove getting new PJs for Christmas! Get a luxurious set or a cute onesie, throw in some nourishing skincare masks, and a box of hot chocolate, and you’ve got a lovely gift set that will make them smile on those cold winter nights.
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5. The Gift of Fitness
When shopping for someone who’s into fitness, there are plenty of gift options that are both cute and practical. Fitbit (and accessories) is something that I’ve given as a gift before, and it’s something that I use (and love) myself. Other fun gift ideas include: a fancy new yoga mat for your fave yoga lover, a nice gym bag for that gym goer in your life, a pair (or two) of cute grippy socks for a friend who loves to barre. If you know which gym or studio they frequent, a gift certificate to their fave workout place would also make for a thoughtful last-minute present.
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6. Their Fave Perfume
This one requires a bit of knowledge about the person you’re buying the gift for. If you know which perfume they usually wear, then buying a lovely perfume gift set for them will be both thoughtful and well-received. This luxurious CHANEL N°5 L’EAU Gift Box ($214) from Holt Renfrew is definitely top of my list, as is this adorable Miu Miu Mini Duo Set ($95) from Sephora.
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Do Not Miss – Sofia Coppola: A Name of Her Own

12 December, 2017 Nelia

I’ve been meaning to post about TIFF’s latest program Sofia Coppola: A Name of Her Own for a while now, but December and the holidays got in the way. Thankfully, it’s not too late for you to catch 3 more Coppola films at the TIFF Bell Lightbox this weekend. Say what you will about Coppola, but the woman has a very specific vision for her films, and just like Wes Anderson’s pastel-coloured dreamland movies, Coppola’s films transport you to a highly-stylized version of the world as she imagines it.

And while my favourite movie she’s directed so far is Lost in Translation, I adore Marie Antoinette for its decadent costumes, stunning scenery, and the unexpected New Wave soundtrack – this movie is just so much fun to watch. And if you’re a fashion lover, you must watch this movie on the big screen – after all, costume designer Milena Canonero won the Academy Award for Best Costume Design for creating the exquisite costumes for this film.

You can see the schedule and buy tickets for the remaining films from the Sofia Coppola: A Name of Her Own here. Share your fave Coppola movie in the comments!

You Are Invited: TIFF boombox 2017

26 October, 2017 Nelia

If you want to get your November started with a bang, TIFF’s Fame-inspired boombox fundraiser promises to be all that and a bag of confetti! With cool installations, film and art studios, a digital jam space, a VR lounge, an auditorium dance floor, and various performances, this is going to be a night to remember. And while costumes aren’t mandatory, this is certainly the best time to dust off your fave ’80s duds.

Proceeds from this year’s boombox fundraiser will support Share Her Journey, a worthy campaign to increase participation, skills, and opportunities for women behind and in front of the camera. Check out the video from the 2015 boombox party, and get your tickets here. You won’t want to miss it!

WHEN: Thursday, November 2 at 9pm
WHERE: TIFF Bell Lightbox, 350 King Street West
DRESS CODE: Cocktail Chic or 80’s-inspired
TICKETS: HERE
Photo Credits: TIFF

TIFF 2017: Beauty and Gifting Lounges

20 September, 2017 Nelia

TIFF can be a pretty stressful time for the media covering the festival, which is why the various beauty and gifting lounges are so helpful during that time – it’s a one-stop shop to get pampered and treated like a celeb when you’re feeling anything but. This year, I was able to visit three of them in between my TIFF appointments, and month-end at work.

1. The Stylist Suite

The Stylist Suite is a celebrity styling and gifting lounge focused on bringing Canadian fashion to TIFF red carpets. Over the past five years, The Stylist Suite has gifted and dressed over 300 celebrities and personalities, including the likes of the Olsen twins, Susan Sarandon, John Travolta, Tatiana Maslany, Kiesza, and many more. The suite had an extensive selection of red carpet pieces from both established and up-and-coming Canadian designers including Andrew Majtenyi, Christopher Paunil, Hendrixroe, Hilary MacMillan, Ryan Alexander, WRKDEPT, among others. I tried on some cool clothes, learned about new Canadian designers (Patricia Wong Jewellery had some really awesome rings!), and had my portrait taken at The Pull Magazine’s Portrait Studio with celebrity photographer Matthew Lyn in support of WE Charity, an international charity that empowers domestic and international change.

2. beautyBOUTIQUE by Shoppers Drug Mart TIFF Suite

There are lots of fun parties to attend during TIFF so when beautyBOUTIQUE by Shoppers Drug Mart TIFF Suite offers to get me party-ready, I always jump at the chance. This year, I had my makeup done by a Stila makeup artist, and had my best Star Wars hair dreams realized by PHYTO. By the time I was done, I felt like one of the celebs – glam and ready to hit the red carpet. Oh, and I ran into Judy Greer in the lobby of the Intercontinental Hotel, so obviously it was an awesome day.

3. Bask-It-Style

Bask-It-Style is an annual TIFF gifting suite that welcomes media and Canadian celebs to check out the latest offerings from various brands and get a mean swag bag in the process. Bask-it Style gift bags are also delivered directly to various celebs at their hotel rooms. While visiting the lounge, I got to try the delicious beet iced tea from DAVIDs TEA, learned all about the new HP Sproket Photo Printer (perfect for wedding photo booths and for actually printing out your Instagram pics), met author Adrienne Kress (who was promoting her new book The Explorers: The Door in the Alley), and listened to Mindy Kaling’s audio book while wearing VR goggles at the Rakuten Kobo station. The gift bag also included goodies from Pureology, Studio1098, Sharp Magazine, as well as a bunch of snacks (like the yummy Toronto Popcorn Company popcorn and Hungry Buddha coconut chips) that came in really handy on days when there was no time for a proper sit-down meal. And as a random bonus, later on I found out that the girls in my time slot (see first pic in this post) were from Degrassi. Do you know which one of them is the next Drake?

TIFF 2017: #Cumberbrunch with Grey Goose Canada and Deadline

12 September, 2017 Nelia

It’s not everyday that you get to attend a very intimate panel with a bunch of movie stars, delicious Grey Goose cocktails, killer views, and a pair of seafood towers…but that’s exactly what I did on day 4 of TIFF. Last Sunday, I found myself on ~~top of the world~~ the rooftop of Lavelle staring at the handsome cast of The Current War film. Led by Deadline Hollywood’s Joe Utichi, the panel consisted of Director Alfonso Gomez-Rejon, Writer/Executive Producer Michael Mitnick, and actors Benedict Cumberbatch, Michael Shannon and Nicholas Hoult.

The actors seemed to be in great spirits, cracking jokes, enjoying their Grey Goose Caesars (both Cumberbatch and Shannon had two each, but who’s counting), and chatting about all things electricity, relationships, and muttonchops. When asked a slightly baffling question about getting ugly for a film role, Cumberbatch quipped that he “loved being ugly in this film” as Edison…even though no noticeable changes were done to the actor’s appearance beyond wardrobe. But he did seem to have a sense of humour about the whole thing. In response to the question about the cast’s own relationship with physics and sciences and how it impacted their acting, Cumberbatch confessed that he “was really bad at physics at school”, while Hoult’s response was slightly less modest: “I understood everything and I think that shines through in my performance”, he said with a laugh. Hoult also shared that the cast took a science lesson to prepare for their roles.“Nick is a bright boy”, added Shannon, while Cumberbatch concurred that Hoult did better than the other two in class. Beauty and brains!

After the panel, my friend and I seized the opportunity to say hello to Hoult and grab a photo with the actor…and in case you were wondering, yes, he is very good looking (and tall) IRL, and was super nice about our fangirling.

The Current War will hit theatres on November 24th, and the full video of the panel is embedded below for your viewing pleasure.