Actress Allie MacDonald arrives at the gala presentation for the film Score: A Hockey Musical. TIFF fans trying to get into sold-out films may be able to get tickets in rush lines. (Adrian Veczan/Reuters)

By Emily Gagne, CBC News

If you're like me, and got caught in the online TIFF ticketing disaster of '10, you are heading into this year's fest empty-handed. But not to fear fellow cinephiles! There is a savior.

Every year, TIFF gives unlucky film lovers a chance to get into sold-out films with rush lines. The idea is if some pass holders don't show, you can get a chance to get their tickets -- first come, first serve, of course. You'll have to pay the regular price, and trek up to the back rows (they only let you in 10 minutes before the film) but it's worth it.

But before you rush off, check out my tips (I've been rushing since '04) for making the wait work for you.

Arrive early. The volunteers will tell you to head out an hour or two before showtime. But you should head out earlier if you really want to nab some of the fest's hotter tickets (think galas like Black Swan, Woody Allen's new flick).

Bring two or three friends -- max! It's nice to have company while you wait (they come in handy for food runs!), although it can come back to bite you at crunch time. Just think of the awkward silence when you find out they only have room for three of your four-person group.

Say howdy, neighbour! Even if you are a shy film fan, chat with the people standing (or sitting) next to you. I can't tell you how many times I've scored free tickets and/or passes from my fellow rushers. Plus, it's fun to talk with people who are film nerds as big as you. You might even forge a post-fest friendship.

Have a backup. If the movie you're waiting for doesn't pan out, be ready to sprint to another venue. You can also get first dibs on the next rush line. When the film fans in front of me missed out on Antichrist at Ryerson last year, they stayed on for Jennifer's Body. We all got in.

Dress smart. Although some rush lines are indoors (Varsity, Scotiabank), the majority of them are on the street. Layers are a must -- scarves, light jackets, even hats if you're waiting for a midnight show -- as are umbrellas.

BRING CASH. Often, TIFFers with tickets to burn will scan the rush line, looking to sell, or even just give their tickets away. And you and your money should be ready when they do. If you're really lucky a director or producer may drop you a ticket or two before running in. Jason Reitman did this when I rushed for Juno.

See you in the rush!

You can follow Emily throughout #TIFF10 on Twitter at @emilygagne