As a lifelong Torontonian and a die-hard film enthusiast, I can’t help but feel a surge of excitement as the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) gears up for its grand return this year. The city will once again be buzzing with glitz, glamour, and the palpable energy that only comes when Hollywood royalty graces our humble streets.
According to Charles Khabouth, a prominent figure in the local food and nightlife scene, renowned Hollywood stars and entertainers from around the world are expected to attend this year’s Toronto Film Festival in significant numbers, much like pre-pandemic times, with an air of grandeur.
“Khabouth expressed optimism that TIFF will fully recover, perhaps even surpassing its previous state, saying, ‘It’s coming back at 100 percent, if not 110 percent.’ He made these remarks to The Hollywood Reporter on Tuesday, highlighting the anticipation surrounding this event for numerous years. This sentiment contrasts starkly with the 2023 TIFF, where the absence of striking Hollywood actors and the subsequent financial losses suffered by local party venues, restaurants, and their suppliers were notable.”
As a dedicated fan, I’ve eagerly anticipated TIFF every year in Toronto. However, for the past two years, the pandemic has disrupted our usual festivities, with digital editions taking center stage in 2020 and 2021. But now, as we gear up for the latest edition of this beloved festival, running from September 5th to 15th, I can’t help but feel a sense of excitement once again. “TIFF is more than just a festival,” Khabouth said, “it’s a cherished part of Toronto’s cultural landscape that we’ve truly missed.”
As CEO of Ink Entertainment, Khabouth maintains regular communication with representatives from leading film studios and streaming platforms planning to come to Toronto for movie premieres. During the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), his downtown Toronto establishments, such as Bisha Hotel, Pink Sky, Kost, Mister C Bar Room, and the private member club Clio, are expected to once again be popular spots for Hollywood enthusiasts eager to catch a glimpse of stars.
The 10-day festival taking place in Venice and Telluride signals the commencement of the awards season, with Hollywood’s elite premiering their newest films at Toronto. These screenings will take place at various venues, including press conferences, talent gatherings, and parties before and after the screenings. Some of the TIFF events to be held in Khabouth’s venues include an opening-night celebration at Daphne on Richmond Street, and a premiere party for Ben Stiller’s Nutcracker, the TIFF opener, at Mister C Bar Room located within the Bisha Hotel.
Currently, it’s been confirmed that individuals such as Angelina Jolie, Selena Gomez, and Pharrell Williams will be visiting our town. We have planned an event with them, and Ben Stiller and Jude Law are also part of the lineup at present.
The arrival of popular Hollywood stars to aid directors and producers with premieres in Toronto not only contributes to the success of their films, but it additionally brings a monetary advantage to nearby businesses, who cater to, transport, and accommodate these American celebrities during the film festival.
Khabouth is organizing the debut weekend screenings for the Steve Coogan-led dramedy “The Penguin Lessons“, directed by Peter Cattaneo, as well as hosting the Billboard Women in Music event honoring Alanis Morissette at DPRTMNT nightclub on Adelaide Street. Additionally, Khabouth will be hosting a first-time BAFTA event at Mister C, which is expected to bring a number of British film and TV stars together.
Khabouth’s Pink Sky restaurant on King Street will be the venue for red-carpet events for Amy Adams’ movie “Nightbitch”, Dakota Johnson’s film “Loser Baby”, Jude Law’s movies “The Order” and “Friendship”, as well as Paul Rudd’s upcoming project.
Khabouth mentions that having high-profile celebrities from Hollywood in his restaurants and clubs is thrilling for his team and enhances their spirits. However, he emphasizes that his waitstaff are taught to handle these A-list celebrities with tact and professionalism. This involves maintaining composure, avoiding staring or requesting selfies or autographs.
Servers often recognize famous Hollywood actors due to their high-profile status, but Khabouth notes that film directors and producers aren’t as easily identifiable at first glance, however, they are still very important figures who servers are informed about in advance.
Various entities such as food vendors, alcohol providers, limousine drivers, temporary event staff, decor specialists like those handling drapes, lighting, and red carpets – all these professionals rely heavily on the yearly film festival taking place in downtown, including TIFF Lightbox, to keep their businesses thriving.
Khabouth prefers to stock up on additional champagne, wine, tablecloths, and glassware before TIFF to avoid any shortages. He also keeps a supply of high-end cigars and cognacs handy, should anyone ask for something fancy.
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2024-08-27 20:55