Whether you’re a film buff, a glamour buff or a little bit of both, there’s no denying the appeal of attending one of the most prestigious film festivals in the world. It’s your chance to not only mingle with the buzz makers but get a first peek at films that may eventually see Oscar glory—or fall flat. Film festivals rightly revolve around the films themselves, but we all know there are fringe benefits: the stargazing, the travel and that palpable movie buzz. But money alone doesn’t guarantee entry into the most renowned festivals. Want to get in on the excitement at Cannes or head to Park City for a glimpse at the latest from Hollywood? Here’s how to attend the five top film festivals in the world, or at very least, get close to the action.

Cannes International Film Festival

Every May the most elite Hollywood players flock to the city of Cannes along the French Riviera to screen the best new films and attend the glitziest, paparazzi-covered parties. The next festival begins May 13, 2009.

Who goes: The crème de la crème of Hollywood and international film making, as well as sun lovers who aren’t afraid to get a little sand on their Christian Louboutins.

Getting in: Officially, the Cannes Film Festival is exclusively reserved for film industry professionals or members of the press assigned to cover it. For entry, you’ll need to be employed by the film industry, but if you aren’t a producer or director type, look at the Cannes Cinephiles Accreditation. This gives film education groups and film students limited access to the festival on an application basis (maybe your son’s decision to be a film major isn’t so bad?). If all else fails, and you’re a real film nut, start blogging about the industry. Several film bloggers gained credentials this past year, so with a little dedication, the Cannes Accreditation office just may consider you worthy too. Beyond those categories the public does not have any access, therefore no festival passes or tickets are for sale.

Off the red carpet: Short of being personally invited by a Hollywood insider, or arriving on the arm of a director, producer, or actor, you won’t be attending the announcement of the Palme d’Or. That said, there are still ways to enjoy aspects of the festival. For instance, catch a flick at the Cinéma de la Plage, a lovely open-air film screen situated on the beach at Plage Mace. Out of competition films and classic movies are screened there throughout the festival. If free tickets are required for a screening they are typically available through the Cannes Tourist Office.

Plan of attack: Spend at least three days in Cannes, even if you haven’t been able to get into a screening. Take a stroll along the Boulevard de la Croisette. It’s the epicenter of film festival action so be sure to spend plenty of time on the famed street soaking in the atmosphere. Consider booking a room at one of the most popular hotels for festival goers, such as the Carlton, Majestic Barriere, Martinez? or Noga Hilton, which all occupy prime real estate along the Croisette. If you shop along the boulevard, where you’ll find boutiques including Hermes, Chanel and Dior, you may also see some of the famous faces in town.