Despite what I may write on occasion, I’m not really descended from the Grinch and Ebenezer Scrooge. And no, I’m not related to Oscar the Grouch either, despite what my sons may claim.
The Toronto International Film Festival (henceforth to be typed as “TIFF”) is currently under way in Toronto (obviously) until the 16th of September. This is good for it brings international attention to the city other than for the antics of Mayor Rob Ford. And of course it also brings much-needed tourist dollars as well. Granted, it does bring the “A” list stars to the city to promote their latest films and where the stars are, so are their fans and those fans spend money. This is an annual event, so it isn’t like the Olympics, that only occur every four years and usually result in viewers being saturated with coverage.
But, can anyone explain to me why the activities of the people attending TIFF – the stars; the directors; the producers and their brief sound bites from the red carpet – warrant being the lead item on the local news? Toronto is Canada’s largest city and portrays itself as being a cosmopolitan metropolis, so why should people who tune in to watch the news be subjected to what amounts to hero worship? I’m not saying the media should ignore TIFF, after all it is a major entertainment event in the city, but does it truly deserve to be the lead item on the news?
There are other items that can or may have an impact on the city that will last much longer than the ten days of the festival. Toronto is still having its problems with gun violence – another man was killed last night by gunfire – but this item and other stories related to regular life in the city are relegated to second place, after the TIFF coverage. I can see TIFF coverage as part of the regular entertainment segment of the newscast, but I can’t understand why those who programme the news seem to feel TIFF needs to lead. I’m sure I speak for others when I say I tune into the news to be informed on local happenings and events, not what film some actor I’ve never heard of is promoting.
Okay, I’ve grumbled and I feel better. Enjoy the rest of your weekend and remember to hug an artist – we need love (and recognition) too.
Cat.
catsworld1 