In the midst of TIFF-craziness I found the time to break for brunch at Brassaii. I was joined by Vlad Alexis who last year starred in a film which premiered as a gala at TIFF.
As we sipped on a fizzing mimosa duo and nibbled through a tower of Oreo adorned pancakes Vlad described his experience at the festival last year, “I walked the red carpet for the movie Stonewall, directed by Roland Emmerich, in which I played a trans woman. Though the movie was surround by controversy, it was really an incredible experience to be surrounded with great artists and their creations in a festival that has become an iconic staple in Canada. Whether it was celebrating women in film and their impact on the Canadian industry or doing karaoke with Gaspar Noe, I was left with a stronger connection and a newfound appreciation for my craft.”
The Montrealer also explained why he recently moved to Toronto, “I am one of eight actors currently attending CBC Actors Conservatory at the Canadian Film Centre. The program pushes me to deepen my craft under a disciplinary lens and mostly share with like minded people that have the same purpose: to become better artists. The CFC gave us each TIFF Industry passes so we could enjoy the festival to its fullest. Awesome!”
Brassaii invites a select few during TIFF to hang out in the restaurant as The Hollywood Reporter films interviews with top talent. I’m a huge fan of THR Roundtables series so was tickled pink to watch Jennifer Garner devouring a quick power lunch after her photoshoot. During TIFF, THR used the library at Brassaii as their photo studio and the restaurant’s study to conduct interviews.
Visiting celebrities had the chance to feast from Brassaii’s menu, with Chef Marcus Monteiro making adjustments or special meals by request. Michelle Rodriguez asked for a vegan salad, Richard Gere wanted a Caprese salad, Jennifer Garner and Bryan Cranston asked for a grilled chicken salad with avocado, Natalie Portman asked for a vegan Mediterranean platter, and Sigourney Weaver ordered a vegan bean soup. In other words, none of them are invited to my wedding because I’m all about that butter and cream! Someone really should have forced them to eat one of the restaurant’s now iconic ooey meets gooey cinnamon buns.
