Focus Features and Universal Pictures Canada will release SONG SUNG BLUE In Theatres Nationwide This Christmas.

Directed By: Craig Brewer
Written By: Craig Brewer
Producers: John Davis, p.g.a., John Fox, p.g.a., Craig Brewer, p.g.a.
Executive Producers: Erika Hampson, Greg Kohs
Cast: Hugh Jackman, Kate Hudson, Michael Imperioli, Ella Anderson, King Princess, Mustafa Shakir, Hudson Hensley with Fisher Stevens and Jim Belushi
Synopsis: Based on a true story, two down-on-their-luck musicians (Hugh Jackman and
Kate Hudson) form a joyous Neil Diamond tribute band, proving it’s never too late to find love and follow your dreams.

Elevation Pictures, The Taro Group and Mr. Will are thrilled to offer Readers in Toronto a chance to win Run of Engagement passes to see tiff50 selection SENTIMENTAL VALUE at TIFF LIGHTBOX.

Synopsis: Sisters Nora and Agnes reunite with their estranged father, the charismatic Gustav, a once-renowned director who offers stage actress Nora a role in what he hopes will be his comeback film. When Nora turns it down, she soon discovers he has given her part to an eager young Hollywood star. Suddenly, the two sisters must navigate their complicated relationship with their father — and deal with an American star dropped right into the middle of their complex family dynamics.

Starring: Stellan Skarsgård, Elle Fanning, Renate Reinsve, Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas

To enter for a chance to win, click “like” on this Post at MR. WILL ON FACEBOOK or IG. In the comments, tag 1 friend you’re taking with you to TIFF Lightbox! Multiple entries permitted.

Rules and regulations here.

SENTIMENTAL VALUE in select theatres, November 14, 2025 via Elevation Pictures.

(Photo/video credit: Elevation Pictures)

November marks Domestic Violence Awareness Month — a time to raise awareness, spark dialogue, and take action against all forms of gender-based violence. Ernestine’s Women’s Shelter, a Toronto-based organization providing inclusive, trauma-informed shelter and community supports for survivors, is calling on everyone to join the movement to raise awareness and build safer communities for all.

Since 1983, Ernestine’s Women’s Shelter has been a lifeline for individuals and families escaping abuse. Originally founded as a women’s shelter, Ernestine’s Women’s Shelter has grown into an inclusive space that supports people of all gender identities affected by violence, offering safety, counselling, and empowerment programs designed to help survivors heal and rebuild their lives.

“Domestic Violence Awareness Month reminds us that safety is a right for every survivor. Every survivor, regardless of gender, background, or identity, deserves compassion, dignity, and access to support,” says Laverne Blake, Interim Executive Director of Ernestine’s Women’s Shelter.

Domestic and gender-based violence remain critical public health and social justice issues across the country.

According to Ernestine’s Women’s Shelter, 44% of women and 60% of queer, trans and gender-diverse people have experienced gender-based violence. Statistics Canada’s Family Violence in Canada reports (2022–2024) show a continued rise in police-reported intimate partner violence and increased demand for shelter services. The 2023 Statistical Profile noted a 2% increase in 2022, with shelters reporting high occupancy and longer stays since the pandemic, underscoring the ongoing need for safe, accessible supports for survivors.

These challenges highlight the urgent need for organizations like Ernestine’s Women’s Shelter, which provide inclusive, intersectional services that recognize and respond to the diverse experiences of survivors.

Flood Recovery Efforts at Ernestine’s Women’s Shelter
This fall, Ernestine’s Women’s Shelter faced an unexpected crisis of its own after a severe flood caused extensive water and mould damage throughout the facility. Several key program spaces, including the Child & Youth Program Room, Homework & Computer Lab, and counselling offices, were affected, resulting in temporary closures and a critical loss of services for residents.

“Every wall we open reveals more damage, and with it, a greater risk of losing the very spaces that help families heal,” says Laverne Blake, Interim Executive Director. “These programs aren’t extras — they are lifelines.”

The total cost of remediation and infrastructure repairs is estimated at $250,000, and Ernestine’s Women’s Shelter has launched an emergency fundraising appeal to ensure essential spaces can reopen safely.

To contribute to the Ernestine’s Women’s Shelter Emergency Flood Relief Fund, please visit: www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/ernestines-womens-shelter/campaign/shelter-repairs

Every donation helps restore critical programs and ensures that survivors of gender-based violence continue to have a safe place to heal and rebuild.

Ernestine’s Women’s Shelter’s Impact
Ernestine’s Women’s Shelter has helped more than 15,000 survivors rebuild their lives since 1983, providing safe shelter, wraparound care, and compassionate, judgment-free support. In the past year, the organization has delivered emergency shelter, counselling, legal advocacy, and housing support to individuals and families across Toronto, while engaging youth and community partners in prevention and education. Through its trauma-informed approach, Ernestine’s Women’s Shelter continues to be a pillar of safety and empowerment for survivors of gender-based violence.

Get Involved
This November, Ernestine’s Women’s Shelter invites the community to:
-Donate to support emergency programs and shelter repairs.
-Wear purple to show solidarity with survivors.
-Speak out — because awareness leads to action, and action saves lives.

To learn more or get involved, visit [www.ernestines.ca] or follow @ernestinesws on social media.

Almost twenty years after making their iconic turns as Miranda, Andy, Emily and Nigel—Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway, Emily Blunt and Stanley Tucci return to the fashionable streets of New York City and the sleek offices of Runway Magazine in the eagerly awaited sequel to the 2006 phenomenon that defined a generation.

The film reunites the original main cast with director David Frankel and writer Aline Brosh McKenna, and introduces an all-new runway of characters including Kenneth Branagh, Simone Ashley, Justin Theroux, Lucy Liu, Patrick Brammall, Caleb Hearon, Helen J. Shen, Pauline Chalamet, B.J. Novak and Conrad Ricamora. Tracie Thoms and Tibor Feldman also reprise their roles as “Lily” and “Irv” from the first film.

“The Devil Wears Prada 2” is produced by Wendy Finerman, and executive produced by Michael Bederman, Karen Rosenfelt and McKenna. The film debuts exclusively in theatres May 1, 2026.

Media are invited to turn up the heat as the temperatures dip, with Ever After presented by Rakuten Kobo, the Toronto International Festival of Authors’ (TIFA) inaugural romance festival taking place in Toronto November 21-23, 2025 at the Yorkville Royal Sonesta Hotel.

Escape for a weekend filled with romance, high tea, engaging panel discussions, intimate book signings, inspiring interactive workshops and a themed costume ball. From steamy contemporary love affairs to queer romance and romantasy, Ever After offers something to quicken every heartbeat.

The inaugural festival will feature a wide range of events with signature experiences including:

The Ever After Ball: Guests are invited to don their finest Romantasy or Regency fashion and dance the night away. Expect live performances, dance lessons, magical corners, a touch of mystery, and well-deserved recognition for debut authors.

High Tea: Sit down with beloved authors Cecelia Ahern (PS I Love You, Paper Hearts), Bailey Hannah (Wells Ranch series) and Marissa Stapley (pen name Julia McKay, bestselling author of Lucky, the first Canadian Reese’s Book Club Pick) for an afternoon of engaging storytelling. Guests can expect a banquet-style set-up, and will be served classic High Tea fixings such as scones, cream & preserves, finger sandwiches, fruit tartlets, coffee & tea.

Blind Date with a Book: Guests are invited to discover their next great love story – shrouded in mystery. Sponsored by Harlequin, this playful experience sets readers up on the perfect blind date with a complimentary (secret!) book. Guests will peruse wrapped books tagged with romance tropes such as Friends to Lovers, Forced Proximity, Second Chance Romance & More!

Tarot Workshops: Led by author Lori Dyan, these sessions explore intuition, inspiration, and the intersection of destiny and storytelling.

Meet the brilliant storytellers who capture every heartbeat, heartbreak, and happily-ever-after:

Cecellia Ahern, explores the tender fragility of love in Paper Heart and the timeless classic PS I Love You.

Kelley Armstrong, turns desire and danger into irresistible tension in Writing Mr. Wrong.

Bailey Hannah, brings rugged charm and second chances to life in the Wells Ranch Series.

Briar Boleyn, ignites fantasy and passion in The Bond That Burns from her Bloodwing Academy Series.

Jenny Colgan, wraps romance in cozy magic with The Secret Christmas Library.

Nisha J. Tuli, blends heat and high stakes in Not Safe for Work.

Amy James, explores love in motion in Crash Test.

Uzma Jalaluddin, spins modern wit and heart into Much Ado About Nada.

Event Information:

Ever After Ball:

Sat. Nov 22 • 7:00pm-11:00PM • The Yorkville Royal Sonesta • 2nd Floor

Blind Date with a Book:

Sat. Nov 22 • 4:30pm • The Yorkville Royal Sonesta • 2nd Floor

High Tea & Paper Hearts with Cecelia Ahern

Fri. Nov 21 • 4:30pm • The Yorkville Royal Sonesta • 2nd Floor

High Tea at the Ranch with Bailey Hannah and Julia McKay

Sun. Nov 23 • 5:30pm • The Yorkville Royal Sonesta • 2nd Floor

Follow along on social:

Facebook: facebook.com/FestofAuthors/

Instagram: instagram.com/festofauthors/

YouTube: youtube.com/user/AuthorsatHC

About TIFA:

The Toronto International Festival of Authors has been inspiring readers and celebrating books and storytelling for 50 years. The charitable organization presents its flagship literary Festival each fall, while offering year-round programming including the MOTIVE Crime & Mystery Festival, the TIFA Romance Festival, the TIFA Presents series of high-profile author talks, Toronto Lit Up book launches, and the International Visitors Program. Since 1974, TIFA has welcomed thousands of authors from more than 100 countries, including 22 Nobel Laureates and countless award winners. The organization is a proud member of the Canadian Association of Literary Festivals (CALF) and the Global Alliance of Literary Festivals (GaoLF).

TIFA gratefully acknowledges our Season Supporter, the Weston Foundations; Presenting Sponsor, Rakuten Kobo; Supporting Sponsor, Harlequin; and our Global Authors Club, for providing additional philanthropic support. We’d also like to thank the Government of Canada, Canada Council for the Arts, the Government of Ontario, Ontario Arts Council, Ontario Cultural Attractions Fund, the Toronto Arts Council, the Work In Culture Catalyst and Transformation Fund, the Centre for Creativity at Victoria University, and TIFA’s generous donors and supporters who understand that great literature is worth investing in.

From first sips to last calls, No Vacancy has spent a year turning moments into memories on Ossington. The vibrant neighbourhood’s favourite cocktail bar celebrates its first year anniversary.

To mark the milestone, No Vacancy is unveiling an updated beverage menu that captures its signature blend of nostalgia and modern edge. Expect playful takes on classic cocktails, inventive new spirits, and bites designed for sharing — all set to the soundtrack of Ossington’s nightlife energy.

“This first year has been incredible thanks to our guests and the bar community that has supported us from day one,” says Troy Gilchrist, General Manager and Beverage Director. “No Vacancy has always been for everyone — craft cocktail lovers, yet just as importantly those who are not craft cocktail lovers, industry professionals, locals, and anyone just looking for a good time. It’s the kind of place where everyone fits in, and every night feels like it’s yours – our focus is to do everything in our power to make our guests feel not only welcome but aid in a sense of celebration whether it be for a significant life milestone or simply a celebration that it is Tuesday night”.

Meet the Talent Behind the Bar
Troy Gilchrist, Beverage Director & General Manager

Troy Gilchrist is the Beverage Director and General Manager at No Vacancy and a seasoned expert in Canada’s cocktail and hospitality scene. Known for his creative precision and mentorship, he approaches mixology like music — layered, balanced, and expressive. His craft has earned him top honours, including Bombay Sapphire/GQ’s “Most Imaginative Bartender” (2013) and Grey Goose Pour Masters (2016).
Nick Hurd, Bar Manager

With over 13 years in hospitality and 6 years behind the bar, Nick Hurd has worked at some of Toronto’s most celebrated cocktail spots, including Ruby Soho, Project Gigglewater, Overpressure Club, and Civil Liberties. Known for his calm precision and classically inspired approach, Nick focuses on balance, texture, and highlighting the spirit at the heart of each drink.

About No Vacancy:
No Vacancy is a vibrant cocktail bar where nostalgia meets modern edge. Located in the heart of Toronto’s Ossington strip, it’s a space that blends retro charm with a contemporary spirit. Known for its craft cocktails, cozy-chic interiors, and lively atmosphere, No Vacancy is where locals, industry pros, and first-time visitors all find a place to call their own.

NO VACANCY is located at 74 Ossington Ave, Toronto, ON M6J 2Y7

Canada Soccer Foundation, in partnership with Infinity &, announced today the official launch of its Iconic XI Ambassador program, featuring a powerful lineup of Canadian icons joining a movement that celebrates excellence and unity in Canadian soccer, and harnessing our collective passion to build a bright future for our sport. This nationwide cultural initiative is designed to unite Canadians behind Canada Soccer’s Men’s National Team as they prepare for FIFA World Cup 26™. The first names to be added to the Iconic XI roster are Sidney Crosby, Simu Liu and Shawn Mendes.

The Iconic XI is a curated group of 11 of Canada’s most respected and influential cultural leaders at the intersection of entertainment, sport, fashion, music, media, and the arts. More than a campaign, it’s a national movement and a moment for Canada to shine in front of the entire world. Members of the Iconic XI will stand shoulder-to-shoulder with our players to champion their stories and help rally the country behind them.

“The Iconic XI represents the best of who we are as a country today – creative, united and in pursuit of excellence,” said Kevin Blue, CEO and General Secretary at Canada Soccer. “As our players prepare for the world’s biggest stage, these cultural leaders will help amplify the pride and passion that continue to define Canadian soccer. Together, we’re showing the world what it means when Canada stands as one.”

The first three members of the Iconic XI are:

Sidney Crosby – widely regarded as one of hockey’s all-time greats, Crosby has captained the Pittsburgh Penguins since 2007 and led them to three Stanley Cup championships. He also won multiple Hart and Art Ross trophies and claimed Olympic gold with Team Canada in 2010 and 2014.

Simu Liu – actor, writer, and producer who rose to international prominence with his starring role in Marvel’s Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings. He has since become one of Canada’s most recognizable global talents, earning a spot on the TIME 100 list for his influence across film, television, and culture.

Shawn Mendes – representing Canada as a Global superstar, the singer and songwriter has earned three GRAMMY nominations and six Juno Awards. He has released five critically acclaimed studio albums, and most recently wrapped his 2025 tour, On The Road Again. Shawn has amassed over 62 billion global song streams, 20 billion video views, and has had 11 tracks with over one billion streams over the course of his chart-topping career.

“I’m excited to partner with Canada Soccer as they launch their Iconic XI ambassador program ahead of the FIFA World Cup,” said Crosby. “It’s always an honor to represent Canada on the national stage, and I’m happy to support my fellow Canadian athletes. I’ll be cheering for them along the way.”

As ambassadors, Crosby, Liu, and Mendes will leverage their platforms to amplify the stories of Canada Soccer’s Men’s National Team — whether through social media platforms, public appearances, or creative collaborations. The aim is to inspire the nation and bring their unique voice and influence to unite Canadians in support of our team during the world’s largest sporting event.

“As the World Cup takes center stage, Canada stands ready for its defining moment. These icons will bridge the worlds of sport and culture, translating the pride of the players and the passion of the fans into a global statement of what it means to be Canadian,” added Jerry Deifer, Partner at Infinity &.

Canada Soccer will announce the rest of the Iconic XI roster over the coming months.

About Canada Soccer Foundation

The Canada Soccer Foundation is a fiduciary body that is legally separate and distinct from Canada Soccer and incorporated under the Societies Act of British Columbia. The primary purpose of the Foundation is to support the efforts of Canada Soccer in promoting the growth and development of soccer in Canada. The purpose, timing and donations expended annually to Canada Soccer, from the Foundation, is at the discretion of the Board of the Foundation.

The Canada Soccer Foundation is dedicated to growing the game and creating opportunities for all Canadians to experience the power of soccer. From supporting our national teams on the world stage to breaking down barriers at the grassroots level, we invest in areas that inspire, develop, and unite communities across the country. Together with our partners and supporters, we are building a stronger future for soccer in Canada – one player, one coach, and one fan at a time.

About Infinity &

Based in Toronto and operating worldwide, Infinity is a full-service music and entertainment company specializing in project management, record label, talent management, and strategic partnerships. Infinity works with artists, brands, and organizations to bring creative visions to life and drive impactful results across the global entertainment landscape.

By Mr. Will Wong

Toronto’s Will Arnett got a big welcome home last night – Sankofa Square billboard and all – as he premiered his latest, IS THIS THING ON? at a special TIFF Lightbox screening, attended by media, friends and family.

Arnett, known best for voicing his unforgettable work as Gob Bluth on Arrested Development, Batman in the LEGO franchise, and the titular role in Bojack Horseman, makes a slight pivot in this upcoming Dramedy from longtime friend Bradley Cooper, exercising his dramatic muscles and also trying Standup Comedy as well for the first time. The Film centers on Alex (Arnett), who is grappling with divorce form his wife of twenty years, Tess (Laura Dern). He stumbles into the world of Standup Comedy and quickly finds himself consumed in the world, forming friendships and finding confidence again.

Despite dividing his time between New York and Los Angeles, Toronto will always be home for Arnett after leaving here about 30 years ago to pursue his acting dreams and this latest effort actually is the type of complex role he always wanted to perform, even with life handing him several comedic gigs.

We had the pleasure of chatting with Arnett about what inspired him and Cooper to team-up to adapt what actually is a true story based on English Funnyman John Bishop‘s life. We ask him about what informs his memorable character, Alex Novak, and also the burning question, whether The SmartLess Podcast (which he co-hosts with Jason Bateman and Sean Hayes) at long last will be making a Toronto tour stop.

Some highlights from our Chat with Arnett:

The Film really features some fantastic career-best work by Arnett and Laura Dern, as a couple finding themselves later in life and revisiting their relationship through a current lens. With a smart Script (co-written by Arnett, Cooper and Mark Chappell), Bradley Cooper once again delivers some fantastic, thoughtful storytelling, bringing the best out of his talent time and again. Cooper also reunites with Cinematographer Matthew Libatique to craft a unique, up-close and intimate watch.

Searchlight Pictures release IS THIS THING ON? December 19, 2025.

(Photo/video credit: Mr. Will Wong/Searchlight Pictures)

By Justin Waldman

Playing from now until November 30, 2025 (which is already an extension) is the incredible transfer from New York of Ava: The Secret Conversations. This is the Canadian Premiere that stars Elizabeth McGovern alongside Aaron Costa Ganis, which the former had adapted herself from the book written by Peter Evans and Ava Gardner about their conversation in 1988 about Hollywood icon Gardner‘s life.

What it becomes is a perfectly-paced and beautifully-acted show about the life of Gardner, but elements that she didn’t always share – it wasn’t the story about Howard Hughes, Frank Sinatra, Mickey Rooney, Artie Shaw but it was about Ava Gardner, herself. She wanted to ensure that she got to tell her story the way she wanted to, and the translation to stage was nothing shy of exceptional.

When crafting a show that doesn’t let up on the audience and ensures that there is no intermission that entire act is crucial, there is no room for a lag, no room for anything dull – just has to be power hit after power hit and thankfully McGovern and Costa Ganis manage to deliver that tenfold. Ava: The Secret Conversations may be about a series of conversations that people weren’t entirely aware of their happenings, but the performance and show itself should be far from a secret.

A video review:

AVA: THE SECRET CONVERSATIONS plays at Mirvish’s CAA Theatre till November 30, 2025.

Tickets here.

(Photo/video credit: Mr. Will Wong/Justin Waldman/Mirvish Productions)

Disney and Pixar have debuted the first teaser trailer and an all-new poster for “Toy Story 5,” and this time, it’s Toy meets Tech.

In the teaser, fans are introduced to the new character Lilypad, a high-tech, frog-shaped smart tablet voiced by Greta Lee (“Past Lives,” “The Morning Show,” “TRON: Ares”) that makes Buzz, Woody, Jessie and the rest of the gang’s jobs exponentially harder when they go head to head with the all-new threat to playtime.

Tom Hanks returns as the ever-loyal cowboy Woody, Tim Allen reports for duty as Buzz Lightyear, Joan Cusack saddles up again as the rootin’-tootin’ cowgirl Jessie, and Tony Hale is back as the voice of the handcrafted toy Forky. It was recently announced that Conan O’Brien will also join the voice cast as the toilet training tech toy Smarty Pants.

Director Andrew Stanton and co-director Kenna Harris state, “It’s been a hilarious and poignant journey exploring how our favourite team of legacy toys might respond to today’s world of technology, and we’re thrilled to share this first glimpse with audiences. Having the remarkably talented Greta Lee bring Lilypad to life — balancing a playfully antagonistic tone with humour and heart — has been incredible.”

“Toy Story 5” is directed by Academy Award® winner Andrew Stanton (“WALL•E,” “Finding Nemo,” “Finding Dory”), co-directed by Kenna Harris (“Ciao Alberto”) and produced by Lindsey Collins (“Turning Red,” “WALL•E,” “Finding Dory”). The animated adventure releases in theatres nationwide on June 19, 2026.