DIFF 07: A date with George Clooney

After a wonderfully posh flight over to Dubai (via Emirates thank you!), my first impression of the city was actually seen through half opened eyes. Much had to do with the fact that we didn't get into our hotel room until 3am and also the fact that I had to hit the ground running since opening festivities all circled around a certain George Clooney.

After a packed press conference (in which Clooney called DIFF an "interesting film festival that gives everyone the opportunity to cross culture a bit"), George was quickly whisked away to a press room for 1 on 1 interviews. Unfortunately he wasn't quick enough because he was soon mauled by every woman in the hallway, literally pulling on him. George being such a nice guy, took pictures with every woman that asked... no wonder they love him!

By the evening, I got all suited up for the opening night gala red carpet event (see video soon). With the film Michael Clayton as the opening film for DIFF, the star studded attendance included everyone from Gloria Estefan (who stopped and talked to us) to Sharon Stone (who is in town for her own AmFar red carpet event in a few days) and of course George Clooney.

But that's not all, AFTER the screening, George sat down with a select group of fans and had an hour plus conversation with them. Besides marriage proposals and jokes about being the sexiest man alive, Clooney impressed everyone with his detailed breakdown of why the general population of the US has a 'sheltered' understanding of the middle east, plus his interests in bringing knowledge of the continuing problems of Darfur. If I wasn't a fan before, Clooney's talk definitely inspired me indefinitely.

What a great first official day into DIFF 2007!

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Posted by Brian on December 17, 2007 3:38:00 PM HKT #