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Toronto International Film Festival: An Insider's Look

By Aaron Gonzalez, WWJ Newsradio 950

Can't get enough of celebrity sighting? I was lucky enough to get a few days off from my usual job at WWJ Newsradio and land a front row seat to see some of today's top stars at the Toronto International Film Festival.

So, what was it like? I learned positioning is an important part when having a camera and an opportunity to capture Hollywood's brightest stars. Enjoy photo galleries of Bradley Cooper and Jennifer Lawrence HERE.

I saw Paul Thomas Anderson's "The Master." Anderson, who directed "There Will Be Blood" and "Boogie Nights" addressed the audience before the viewing, which was presented in 70MM - for film geeks ... that is a big deal.

Saturday evening, two premieres took place within a half hour apart: "Cloud Atlas" starring Tom Hanks and Halle Berry from "The Matrix Trilogy" directors, The Wachowski's (Andy and Lana) and director Tom Tykwer of the international hit, "Run Lola Run" and David O. Russell's "Silver Linings Playbook" starring Bradley Cooper and Jennifer Lawrence.

My best advice for you autograph and photograph seekers, bring a partner.

Cooper and Lawrence shared the fan area outside "Silver Linings Playbook" by signing autographs and taking photos. They responded cheerfully to fans' chants across the grounds of the Roy Thomson Hall, where the film was being viewed, and I think everyone walked away with great pictures.

Finally, we come to the last day of my visit. I bought a ticket for the screening of Joss Whedon's "Much Ado About Nothing. " From one of Shakespeare's works, Whedon follows up his massive success of "The Avengers" with a low budget, modern take of "Much Ado" shot at Whedon's home in Santa Monica, Calif., in nearly two weeks time.

Considering the premiere viewing was the day before, all in attendance were thrilled that he was in the building and would do a question and answer after the viewing. For added fun, much of the cast was in attendance and joined in the festivities.

Afterwards, Whedon was still meeting with fans for autographs and pictures. I took my chance to get in a quick word and hand shake with the famed writer and director. With a firm handshake applied and given back, I felt inspired and filled with happiness about my trip to Toronto.

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