Tending the Talk: Why I Hope You’ll Read During TIFF

Today’s post will be short since I’m fully entrenched in festival-prep and not watching much else worth discussing.

Long ago, I noticed that when I do a podcast episode dedicated to a lower-profile title, it tends to get less listens. The reason for this is obvious (especially since I sometimes do it myself): Why does one want to listen to people discuss something one hasn’t seen? It’s not even like I’m accredited press and can report on “the vibe” of the festival.

In some ways, I believe this carries over to film festival coverage. I mean really, beyond wanting to me to act as the canary in the coal mine where films like GRAVITY, LABOR DAY, or 12 YEARS A SLAVE are concerned, why would you want to read what I’m writing about films that might not make it your way for months (sometimes years)?

I’m hoping for this reason: Hopefully, if I’ve selected wisely, I can see something and write about it in a way that will make you want to keep an eye out for it. If I’ve really selected wisely, this will be kindled for a film you may never even have had your eye on.

As an example, three of my favorite films from this past summer – FRUITVALE STATION, MUD, and BLANCANIEVES – were ones I watched because of passionate festival word-of-mouth.

I guess what I’m saying is “stick with me”. I won’t give away every twist and turn, but hopefully you’ll discover something new over the next eleven days.