So you want to be rubbing elbows with the stars or chatting up famous filmmakers or simply absorbing the artistic energy of the influx for the film festival, how do you get access?

The old fashioned way is still the best.  Buy it.  If you’re feeling flush the very best way to get all access is to purchase a Founders Pass for $1200 which gets you into any film or panel or listed event.  If you can’t step up to that gold plate there is the Special Events Package for $275 which includes films, special programs, and events.  The Opening Night package for $100 includes the film and party at Gurneys and the Closing Package for $50 includes the film, awards, and reception.  Another great event is the benefit for Mira Nair’s Maisha Foundation which funds new filmmakers in East Africa with the film “8” and reception at a private home for $75.

You can also purchase an individual ticket to a film where after every screening the stars or directors will conduct question and answer periods, interacting with the public.

Hit one of the festival hot spots.  The headquarters is at c/o The Maidstone, the most civilized place for a glass of wine or bite at the bar to see just who is passing through.  The Palm at the Huntting Inn is another favorite stop over spot at night just before screenings.  During the day Rowdy Hall is the quick bite between films hot spot.  The reservation book at Nick & Toni’s reads like a who’s who of Hollywood so a well placed stool at the bar gives you a front row view.  Stephen’s Talkhouse in Amagansett is the official late night watering hole during the festival and has an amazing band on Thursday night Perrotta starting at 10p.

Many visiting filmmakers and actors enjoy interacting with the public to discuss their work.  Some are more open than others so a brief but polite introduction is appropriate then take the cue not to stay past your welcome or worse, become creepy.

Do strike up interesting conversations about the films.  There are many visiting film dignitaries who are household words in Europe but unknown over here.  A knowledgeable comment about a film you saw goes much farther than, “Wow dude you look so different in person than on TV.”

Everyone always asks how to dress.  Since most festival goers are on the move all day, there is little time to get formal.  However, being stylishly and attractively dressed is always an asset.  Just bring layers as theatres and bars and walks in between can range from hot to cold.  Many people comment they can tell the festival is in town because of all the people in black.  Black is not a filmmaker thing, it’s a fat thing – we all just look slimmer in it.

If you do want to enjoy a meal at one of the hot spots, make a reservation well in advance as it will be booked up early.

I feel I’m channeling Emily Post, but be polite to the door keepers.  Many events and screenings are manned by volunteers or staff who haven’t slept in a week, and a little honey and understanding goes a long way to gaining entrance.  Arriving early is another key to avoiding lines and crowds.

The best way to purchase packages and tickets is online except if it is the day of the event or screening.  Click on the banner ad above for more information.