It’s tough to score a ticket to the most buzzworthy movies at the Toronto International Film Festival. Critics, avid movie lovers and film industry professionals alike line up in TIFF’s rush line in hopes of scoring one. The rush line gives people the chance to catch a sold out screening by waiting in line for an opportunity to purchase tickets a mere 10 minutes before showtime, depending on availability.
Waiting in line can be a serious pain but for these moviegoers it’s all worth it in the end.
Angelica
27, Actress
Hometown: Mexico
Waiting to see: mother!
In line for: 2 hours
Angelica warns rush line users to keep the faith if they are getting frustrated with the long lines.
“You might get lucky. I was waiting in a premiere rush line and someone just came and gave me a ticket so I just got to the movie with a free ticket. So, just hope for the best.”
Ethan
20, Student
Hometown: Toronto
Waiting to see: Lady Bird
In line for: 30 minutes
TIFF enthusiast, Ethan, says that companionship is essential when trying to kill time.
It’s good to have something to do. Someone to talk to. It makes passing the time easier having your best buds with you. They’re really good to have someone to stay in line for you if you need to go on a bathroom or a coffee break.”
James
32, Filmmaker & Editor
Hometown: Toronto
Waiting to see: Porcupine Lake
In line for: 30 minutes
James, who has been nominated for a Canadian Screen Award for Best Achievement in Editing as well as Best motion picture for the film Sleeping Giant, says he has seen around 10 films at TIFF this year.
“Just be patient, bring a snack and chat with people around you. You get to make new friends.”
Matt
22, Student and Film Journalist
Hometown: Chicago Illinois
Waiting to see: Borg McEnroe
In line for: 1.5 hours
“I’m a big Shia LaBeouf fan and I’ve been looking forward to this film for a long time and I saw some of the earlier reviews come out for it last night and it got me really excited.”
“Bring layers, bring an umbrella, bring a book and meet the people in front of you and behind you because they are also doing the same thing.”
Anntoinette
27, Lawyer
Hometown: Ireland
Waiting to see: Gaga: Five Foot Two
In line for: 4.5 hours
“She’s going to perform at (the screening) so it’s going to be a unique experience especially because it’s a small venue, not like the huge stadiums she usually plays.”
Samantha
26, Student
Hometown: Ottawa
Waiting to see: The Shape of Water
In line for: A very long time
“I love films and I also as an urban planner really like the sort of cultural building aspect and city building aspect of TIFF. So, I volunteer every year to sort of help that go.