Brokeback Mountain is a must-see
Well, what can I say about my first day at Venice?
Exhausting, draining, both emotionally and physically. For my initial induction into the world of journalism I'm finding it very interesting and very eye opening. I never realised how big an event this festival truly is, dealing with people, some pleasant, some not (Italian Mafia looking security guards), particularly when trying to bring bags in - I swear it's only a bottle of water!!
Had interesting scenario yesterday with ID registration for my accreditation. Forgot my passport for identification. However, lovely looking Italian lady came through for me and didn't send me back on a 40-minute round trip across the Lido -come on!!
To use a phrase from David Brent: "Never assume - it makes an ass out of you and me." Planning is of the utmost importance. It's quite competitive, trying to track down information, looking forward to settling into some cinematic exclusives over the next week. Brokeback Mountain, based on a best-selling prizewinner, directed by Ang Lee, is a must.
Just getting my body clock adjusted to this crazy life. The festival itself looks awesome, the staging immense, the pre-ceremony layout and premiere seating truly inspiring, especially the large statues of the Golden Lions.
Clearly a lot of thought and planning has gone into bringing it to life. Posters are everywhere promoting Casanova (filmed entirely in Venice) to Elizabethtown, the latest from Cameron Crowe, and the vibe from the place is buzzing, as it seems everyone is looking forward to the next 10 days.
I'm off now to track down press conference details and interviews scheduling.
Day Two
Well, made the screening of Brokeback Mountain. Got talking to an American journalist, who works for People magazine and she revealed a few helpful hints in pointing me in the right direction for interviews.
Going to check what press conferences are on this morning and also heading over to the Western Excelsior Hotel to pester PR assistants for interviews.
Casanova screens tonight for the press so I will be attending that, also have some good shots of George Clooney that my mate took which hopefully will come out. He also papped Spike Lee and John Woo, as they arrived for a premiere on the red carpet. I was inside the screening so missed all the action.
