Never having gone to a premiere film night, this was a new experience for me. Fortunately, Michael blogged about the premiere of his movie "It Was You Charlie" in time to purchase tickets and make it to the premiere evening show. It was a great movie with an uplifting ending, and the opportunity to see and speak with the stars, directors, producers and cast members - was amazing.

This entire experience was a nice change from the standard Hollywood film. You would never expect to have the honour of being at the theatre with the Hollywood cast. For this TIFF premiere, the director / writer - Emmanuel Shirinian was present, thanked a flurry of key individuals involved in the production, and came back on the screen stage to discuss audience questions after the movie's end. To that note, all the cast members (who were present and not shooting another film in India or LA) came on stage to answer questions, speculate on their emotions during the filming of scenes, and just provide some background insight either into the characters or into the filming process itself.

Michael D. Cohen was the star and main character "Abner." In his discussion, he mentioned how he had researched the role. By chance his volunteer work with a suicide hotline, made this an ideal role for him - as he understood the challenges, angst and sheer psychological stresses that many depressed people go through. I will not spoil the movie further, but rest assured that there is a very positive end to the film, which was a breath of fresh air - for a very solemn topic.

A wonderful part of the experience was the rich background you get from hearing the cast and members recount the evolution of the movie, over the span of 3 years, and the packed 17 days 174 scenes of filming. This discussion truly gives you as an audience member, a much deeper appreciation for what it takes to get a movie produced, and up on the screen. Amazing!

From the posters on the wall, to the name on the TIFF scrolling billboard - the Premier night of "It Was You Charlie" was an amazing experience. I had a fantastic time, and enjoyed bumping into, and meeting people whom I would never had encountered in my regular course of events. 

If you ever have an opportunity to attend a Premiere screening night... TAKE IT! Get there early - as it will be a packed venue, enjoy the film, meet some folk, shake hands with the cast, and make sure to bring your questions. I loved the experience and cannot wait for the next one. 

By The Way - "It Was You Charlie" will be showing at the TIFF and other theatres for the coming week / weeks. Do take it in, and support the creative efforts of a fellow member of the community!

Two thumbs up :-)