Stars Up the Ante at the Toronto Film Festival

To say it's been a busy couple of weeks in Hollywood is an understatement. Between the Venice Film Festival, VMAs, Toronto Film Festival and Fashion Week, celebs have been scattered all over the world, trying to make an impact wherever they go.

Some have decided to go the political or sports path, rooting for President Obama at the DNC (Scarlett Johansson) or tennis stars at the U.S. Open (Nicole Kidman). And others - like the Olsen twins - made an appearance at Fashion's Night Out.

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Many industry insiders believed the Toronto Film Festival would get short shrift - but quite the opposite happened. Instead, heavy hitters like Penelope Cruz, Selena Gomez and Marion Cotillard have captivated Canadian fans. And it's no wonder why.

Penelope Cruz was all ablush in a vintage pink Gianni Versace gown with a thigh-high slit and nude Versace platform sandals. 

Both Kirsten Dunst and Marion Cotillard nailed the neutral look in Christian Dior - Kirsten in a soft, cream confection and Marion in gray strapless with a tiny peplum. We also adored Emily Blunt's second-skin, burgundy beauty by Roland Mouret.

Naomi Watts, Kate Hudson and Anna Kendrick looked stunning it in Elie Saab, Alexander McQueen and Mulberry. And Rachel McAdams chose exactly the right color in this muted emerald Elie Saab.

Selena Gomez, Kristen Stewart and Vanessa Hudgens rejected the less-is-more trend, opting instead for florals and prints. We're on the fence about Lily Collins' over-the-top Balmain mini and Jennifer Lawrence's understated Antonio Berardi dress. Lily's was a bit too much and Jennifer's was a bit too spare.

We give Kristen points for making a real effort, though. She looked ultra-ladylike in her Zuhair Murad Fall 2012 Couture frock. And she even managed a smile.