First Time at the Toronto International Film Fest (@tiff.net) and the movie: "Good News" by South Korean Director/Writer Byun Sung-gu

The Toronto International Film Festival has long been on my bucket list, but this was the first time I was in Toronto at the right time, Sept 4-14th. There is great advertising in papers, businesses, theatres, galleries, libraries and on social media. It's big! There are 5 film venues, a Festival Street (for Star viewing) hundreds of helpful, friendly volunteers, lots of promotions and photo opps, special menus, special events, and a lively buzz throughout the city. At this time, I felt like I was in New York, where anything might happen. You know...see a star, be a star...even for one night. We started at the Shangri-La Hotel, for photo opps and a celebratory drink. Beautiful setting and always terrific service. I had planned to wear black shoes, but my stylist, Anthea, insisted on red, a bit of rebellion against the tradition of the classic black dress look. She tells me I can wear black as long as there is an added element, a fancy brooch, colourful scarf, or in this case, gold embellishments and the red shoes. I loved the chance to sit in the Director's chairs! I also liked that the gold photo wall, matched my gold purse and her Michael Kors boots with gold stars! Photos are by Shangri-La Staff. Now that is service! We had tickets to see GOOD NEWS, by South Korean Writer/Director Byun Sung-hyun, screenplay by Byun Sung-hyun and Lee Jin-seong. Cast includes: Sul Kyung-gu, Hong Kyung, Ryu Seung-beom, Yamada Takayuki, Shiina Kippei and Kim Seung-O. This was based on a true story about a plane hijacking that took place during the 70's that became an international event involving South Korea, Japan and the USA, all using desperate and sometimes madcap strategies to prevent tragedy. Surprise, Suspense and Humor kept us hoping for a happy ending in this one. You can see a clip of it on the Toronto International Film Festival website or watch it on Netflix, Oct 17, 2025. I have a far away photo of the Q&A at the Princess of Whales Theatre. Hats off to the Interviewer and Translators and to the Director and Actors! Would have loved to see a live screen translation, though, because it was a full house and we were not in the front row. Next time, I will attend the Press and Industry prescreening interview for a closer look and listen. Anthea took a quick video of me on Festival Street, on King, where I was on the Star walk, accidentally and briefly. You walk along, with the crowd and then, the gate closes and the limo drives along slowly and then, the Stars step out for photos and chats. Imagine. So much to learn for TIFF26. We finished up at the Ritz Carleton Toronto for a farewell drink and pizza and snacks. Hospitality, music and lots of bubbles. Magic!