Madonna Will Be The Big Story Of "TIFF" 2011

Every year the "Toronto International Film Festival" welcomes celebrities to its door.

But what happens when an icon like Madonna shows up?

Madonna, 53, makes her first appearance at "TIFF" this year as a director, with her romantic drama "W.E."

"It's all about preparation", said TIFF co-director Cameron Bailey.

"We have lots conversations with Madonna's reps and plan everything before her arrival. That's what we do for every star."

Still, celebrity photographer George Pimentel sees Madonna's presence at "TIFF" as a game changer.

"Frankly, directors like David Cronenberg and Francis Ford Coppola will have to stand in line to get their shots snapped when Madonna's in the room", said Pimentel.

"Madonna's iconic status puts her in a completely different category. You can have George Clooney, Brad Pitt and countless other stars at 'TIFF'. But the minute Madonna gets off the plane it'll be game on. She'll be the money shot that everyone will want to get."

In 2005, Pimentel tracked Madonna all over Toronto when she attended "TIFF"'s premiere of "Revolver."

The film was directed by Guy Ritchie, Madonna's husband at the time.

Pimentel found the restaurant where Madonna made reservations.

When she arrived "she ignored everyone and did her thing", he said.

He believes that this time, Madonna's appearance at "TIFF" as a director could make it easier to access the star.

"Directors are usually more willing to give their time to the press. They've got a film to promote. Madonna will have to do the same", he said.

"W.E." tells the story of one unhappily married woman (Abbie Cornish) and her obsession with Wallis Simpson - the American divorcee who wed England's Edward VIII, leading to his abdication of the throne.

Fans, however, may just want to see Madonna.

"She's the biggest star on Earth", said Christine Smith, 36, a Toronto architect and loyal Madonna fan.

"People went bananas when Oprah came here a few years ago. That'll pale next to the commotion over Madonna", she said.

So far, where Madonna will stay and go is anyone's guess.

Some speculate that the new yoga facilities being launched at the "Windsor Arms Hotel" might attract her.

It may even signal her stay at the hotel.

Owner George Friedman won't confirm or deny such speculation.

"In some ways dealing with a big star like Madonna is almost easier than a regular executive", said Friedman.

"Her people are very clear about what they want."

Friedman's staff has received some very specific requests from celebrity guests.

On one occasion, a celebrity guest called hours before their arrival to request that a bath be drawn in their room and filled with "Jello".

The concierge replied by asking: "What flavour?"

"No hotel can predict what Madonna, or any star, wants", said Friedman.

"Wherever she stays, Madonna's people will call the shots. Then you make them happy."

Hefty security, most certainly, will be on that list.

"In a way it's almost like dealing with royalty", said Lulu Vibert, the editor-in-chief of Lush magazine and founder of the website, "luluunlimited.com".

"Madonna's visit may not be as intense as a visit from Prince William. But her people do advance trips to every location. They have to make sure she can enter and leave any building with safety", said Vibert.

Madonna's team will also have specific requests for the film's after-party.

Vibert was among several Toronto-based event specialists who bid on this party.

Though she did not get the contract, Vibert believes it will be a small, exclusive affair, not some big club bash.

"My understanding is that it will be intimate and personal", said Vibert.

"But everything this TIFF trip is a big deal. Madonna will be the big story of TIFF 2011."


source: ctv


source: etalk