The Pink Triangle Press (PTP) Pink Awards, a national celebration dedicated entirely to recognizing 2SLGBTQIA+ excellence and impact, is turning the spotlight on the Changemakers shaping queer communities across the country. This year’s previously announced Champions, Bilal Baig, Devery Jacobs, Carole Pope, Douglas Elliott, and Harper Steele will be recognized for their outstanding contributions, and will take part in honouring organizations making a significant impact within 2SLGBTQIA+ communities. From advocacy and health initiatives to arts and culture, these Changemakers are building a more inclusive, equitable, and resilient future for 2SLGBTQIA+ people. The PTP Pink Awards will take place at the Fairmont Royal York Hotel on Nov. 6, 2025.

The 2025 Changemakers are:

Bilal Baig champions Paprika Festival – Amplifying queer voices through paid training and mentorship in the performing arts.

Devery Jacobs champions the Native Youth Sexual Health Network – Empowering Indigenous youth to lead initiatives on sexual health and cultural reclamation.

Carole Pope champions CANFAR (Canadian Foundation for AIDS Research) – Driving HIV/AIDS research, education, and awareness.

Douglas Elliott champions Wabanaki Two-Spirit Alliance (W2SA) – Dedicated to advocating for the well-being, visibility, and needs of Two-Spirits and Indigenous LGBTQQIA+ across the Wabanaki Territories.

Harper Steele champions Friends of Ruby – Supporting 2SLGBTQIA+ youth through free counselling, housing, and social services.

Each Changemaker will receive a donation of a minimum of $5,000 plus proceeds from the evening’s ticket sales and Silent Auction which include Taylor Swift Autographed-Acoustic Guitar, a Boudoir Photo Session by Jie Su Studios, a Tuscany retreat, signed Raptors merch, Glam session from P1M, among several others.

The evening of celebration will feature musical performances by one of Canada’s premier male choral ensembles Forte Gay Men’s Chorus, singer-songwriter and CTV’s The Launch winner T. Thomason, and the legendary pop/country/fierce femme band Shania Twink, with a special appearance by Carole Pope. Beverly Glenn-Copeland who receives the 2025 Legacy Award will also perform.

Previously announced guests also include co-hosts Hollywood Jade, Emily Hampshire, Shannon Burns, style expert and health advocate Myles Sexton, award-winning filmmaker Patricia Rozema, and Sam Smith who will present the 2025 Legacy Award to Beverly Glenn-Copeland.

Tickets to the Pink Awards can be purchased here. Tickets to the official Pink Awards After Party at Buddies in Bad Times Theatre produced in association with Precious Cargo by Common Froot and sponsored by Durex can be purchased here. Proceeds from the evening support the charities being recognized.

The 2025 Pink Awards gala is proudly presented with the support of DECIEM: The Abnormal Beauty Company, BMO and The Fairmont Royal York whose commitment to innovation, inclusivity, and community impact reflects the spirit of the event.

About Pink Triangle Press:

Pink Triangle Press (PTP) is Canada’s leading not-for-profit 2SLGBTQIA+ media and content organization. Founded in 1971, PTP produces 2SLGBTQIA+ journalism at Xtra Magazine and through a variety of content distribution channels in Canada and abroad. The Press also operates travel site Pink Ticket Travel, a gay adult dating website, and has produced a number of television projects. The organization began as a gay liberation newspaper, The Body Politic, named by Masthead Magazine as one of “Canada’s 20 most influential magazines of all time.”

On the heels of a record-breaking 11th edition of the Charlottetown Film Festival (ChFF), ChFF Executive Director Jenna MacMillan announces the expansion of the festival and rebrand to Anchor Fest for the 2026 edition. With an aim to expand its content offerings, Anchor Fest will focus not only on film but also highlight a mosaic of programming in television, comedy, music, podcasts, and more. Taking inspiration from SXSW, Anchor Fest will be a celebration and bringing together emerging and established artists to meet with industry professionals from across Canada, while showcasing innovative and cutting-edge content and stories. The first annual Anchor Fest will be October 14 – 18th, 2026.

“The last two years of ChFF have shown us that audiences in Atlantic Canada are hungry for innovative, cutting-edge, and comedic content,” says former director of ChFF and Executive Director of the new Anchor Fest. “We’ve been inspired by festivals from all over the world, from Galway to SXSW, to bring fresh, new ideas to our audiences. We hope that Anchor can expand its scope, and expand its audiences.”

Anchor Fest will bring together an eclectic mix of creators and content including the best of Canadian and select international features with a bold and comedic lens, more world premieres, and innovative and interactive screenings; industry spotlights on Canadian creators and filmmakers; musical acts across genres that bridge the gap between screen arts and music, and industry spotlights on the latest trends in East Coast Music; Stand-up comedy showcases, panels on comedy in Canada, and even live podcast and comedy show tapings in from of the Anchor audience.

“We are looking forward to building a new type of environment for industry professionals and creatives,” says Bill Lundy, Director of Industry Programming of Anchor Fest. “We are excited by the challenge of breaking down barriers and creating a festival that is not only holistic in its programming, but welcoming and relaxed for its attendees. We aim to be the SXSW of the North, but instead of BBQ, we serve seafood.”

Anchor Fest will be run by the newly founded non-profit organization, the Anchor Motion Picture Alliance, which will also serve at the P.E.I. Producers Association.

Follow the ChFF accounts, soon to be revamped as ANCHOR Fest:
Website: http://www.charlottetownfilmfest.com
Instagram @charlottetownfilmfest
Facebook: @CTownFF

Lyla, the modern Mediterranean-inspired restaurant in the heart of Toronto, is excited to debut its new fall menu crafted by Executive Chef Michael Medeiros. Launching this evening, the refreshed menu highlights seasonal ingredients, bold flavours, and refined simplicity, designed for sharing and perfect for autumn dining. Reservations are now available via OpenTable HERE.

The fall menu introduces a range of vibrant new dishes, from indulgent pastas like Rigatoni al Brasato di Manzo with braised Ontario beef short rib to the delicate Hamachi Crudo topped with rotating caviar and plum wine jelly. Seasonal highlights include the Autumn Salad with butternut squash and maple vinaigrette, and Tortelli al Tartufo finished with shaved winter truffles. Larger shared entrées such as the Half Duck with pomegranate glaze and spiced duck jus or the Canadian Lamb Loin with olive tapenade and golden raisins round out the new offerings.

Chef Medeiros, whose culinary journey began at 17 and has since taken him from MICHELIN-starred kitchens in Australia to Toronto’s vibrant dining scene, draws inspiration from his family roots and global training to create a menu that balances comfort and elegance. With a focus on seasonal, local high-quality ingredients and Mediterranean flavours, Lyla’s fall menu embodies the restaurant’s philosophy: elevated yet approachable, crafted from high-quality ingredients and designed for sharing.

Complementing the food, Lyla’s beverage program continues to feature a curated wine list showcasing coastal wines and a cocktail menu built on fresh, vibrant ingredients. The restaurant’s warm, old-world inspired interiors designed by HOK make for an inviting setting to enjoy the new seasonal menu, whether for a casual dinner, a celebration, or a private event.

Lyla’s fall menu is available now for dinner, lunch, and includes an updated weekend brunch menu. For those seeking a celebratory dining experience, the restaurant also offers a selection of group set menus, from the Lyla Table ($79 + tax per person) to the Lyla Signature Table ($99 + tax per person), showcasing the best of the fall menu in family-style formats.

For reservations, please visit the OpenTable link HERE.

Location: 60 Sudbury St, Toronto, ON M6J 3S7

Hours:

Brunch: Saturday & Sunday: 10:30am-3pm

Lunch (for private events only): Monday-Friday: 12pm-4pm

Dinner: Sunday-Thursday: 5pm-11pm, Friday & Saturday: 5pm-12am

We recently had the pleasure of enjoying LYLA. More below.

Do we rise to the occasion or do we bury oneself deeper amidst society’s secrets? We shall find out soon enough…

Bridgerton Season 4 shall arrive in two parts:

Part 1: January 29 & Part 2: February 26, 2026

BRIDGERTON

Part 1 Premiere Date (episodes 401-404): January 29, 2026

Part 2 Premiere Date (episodes 405-408): February 26, 2026

Logline: The fourth season of Bridgerton turns its focus to bohemian second son Benedict (Luke Thompson). Despite his elder and younger brothers both being happily married, Benedict is loath to settle down — until he meets a captivating Lady in Silver at his mother’s masquerade ball.

ABOUT BRIDGERTON SEASON 4

Episode Count: 8

Showrunner/ EP: Jess Brownell

Executive Producers: Shonda Rhimes, Betsy Beers, Tom Verica, and Chris Van Dusen

Series Regulars: Luke Thompson (Benedict Bridgerton), Yerin Ha (Sophie Baek), Jonathan Bailey (Anthony Bridgerton), Victor Alli (Lord John Stirling), Adjoa Andoh (Lady Danbury), Julie Andrews (Lady Whistledown), Lorraine Ashbourne (Mrs. Varley), Masali Baduza (Michaela Stirling), Nicola Coughlan (Penelope Bridgerton), Hannah Dodd (Francesca Stirling), Daniel Francis (Lord Marcus Anderson), Ruth Gemmell (Violet Bridgerton), Florence Hunt (Hyacinth Bridgerton), Martins Imhangbe (Will Mondrich), Claudia Jessie (Eloise Bridgerton), Luke Newton (Colin Bridgerton), Golda Rosheuvel (Queen Charlotte), Will Tilston (Gregory Bridgerton), Polly Walker (Portia Featherington), Emma Naomi (Alice Mondrich), Hugh Sachs (Brimsley)

Additional Key Cast: Kate Bridgerton (Simone Ashley), Isabella Wei (Posy Li), Michelle Mao (Rosamund Li), and Katie Leung (Lady Araminta Gun)

Incredible honour meeting this legend! Acclaimed Actor and Martial Arts legend SAMMO HUNG receives his flowers, being honoured with a Maple Jade Award in Toronto last night.

He also presents his latest film Kung Fu Juniors tonight at the Toronto Chinese Film Festival. The Festival runs till October 24, 2025.

This man is an I C O N. The first ever Asian male lactor to lead a network series in MARTIAL LAW.

Such a class act. Despite being in a wheelchair, he looks a vision of health at 73!

More on the Festival here.

BLACK PHONE 2 debuts with $24 million from 3,411 theatres across North America for Universal Pictures. It gets 75% on the Tomatometer. This bests its predecessor which debuted in 2022 with $23 million.

TRON: ARES lands in second with $11 million from 4,000 theatres. Over two weekends, it has made $54.4 million for Disney.

GOOD FORTUNE, Aziz Ansari’s directorial debut opens in third with $5.7 million, it gets 77% on the Tomatometer for Universal Pictures.

ONE BATTLE AFTER ANOTHER lands in fourth with $3.7 million, a tally of $61.6 million domestically for Warner Bros.

ROOFMAN rounds out the Top Five with $3.6 million, a total $15.4 million in its second weekend for Paramount Pictures.

If you’re a fan of NCIS, you need no introduction to TONY & ZIVA! After filming nine seasons together and some electric chemistry, this power couple now have their own spinoff. The season finale streams October 24, 2025 only on Paramount+!

Toronto was in for a treat as stars Michael Weatherly (Tony DiNozzo) and Cote de Pablo (Ziva David) made their presence felt with a two-day press tour, including a panel Q&A with CHFI‘s Gurdeep Ahluwalia, hosted at Hotel X. We were thrilled to join Weatherly and de Pablo on the carpet as they graciously spent their time chatting with us.

NCIS: TONY & ZIVA reunites the beloved characters after it was believed that Ziva was no longer. Now she’s back and we learn that the couple have a daughter together, Tali and the season throws many new obstacles at them with them being at new stages in their lives.

Our chats with Weatherly and de Pablo here:

While the season is set across Europe, we learned one cool fun fact we learned, is that a vast majority of it was filmed in Budapest and around Hungary, which showed great versatility acting as other places like Switzerland and Germany.

The two stars have a playful, fun chemistry even off-camera which makes so much sense why it translates so perfectly on-screen. Fans cannot get enough and it was amazing seeing them take photos with a long line of fans post Q&A, as a chic but very packed reception took place at The Playbook Commons, located in Hotel X. There was a Glambot-style camera, photo ops, series-inspired cocktails and lots of delectable bites!

Will there be a season two? We’re waiting anxiously!

(Photo/video credit: Mr. Will Wong)

Focus Features, Universal Pictures Canada, and Mr. Will want to give Readers a chance to win passes to an Advance Screening of BUGONIA.

Screenings take place as follows:

TORONTO
Wednesday, October 22
7:00 PM
Cineplex Cinemas Varsity and VIP

VANCOUVER
Wednesday, October 29
7:00 PM
Cineplex Odeon International Village Cinemas

MONTREAL
Wednesday, October 29
7:00 PM
Cinéma Banque Scotia

Synopsis:

Directed by: Yorgos Lanthimos
Screenplay by: Will Tracy
Cast: Emma Stone, Jesse Plemons, Aidan Delbis, Stavros Halkias, and Alicia Silverstone
Produced by: Ed Guiney, Andrew Lowe, Yorgos Lanthimos, Emma Stone, Ari Aster, Lars Knudsen, Miky Lee, Jerry Kyoungboum Ko
Synopsis: Two conspiracy obsessed young men kidnap the high-powered CEO of a major company, convinced that she is an alien intent on destroying planet Earth.

To enter for a chance to win, click “like” on this Post at MR. WILL ON FACEBOOK or IG. Indicate your City in comments, and tag 1 friend who’s coming with you! Multiple entries allowed.

Rules and regulations here.

Focus Features and Universal Pictures Canada will release Bugonia with special limited engagement on October 24, 2025, ahead of a wide expansion on October 31, 2025.

(Photo/video credit: Focus Features)

ABURI TORA at Yorkdale introduces three new Oshi features created by Head Chef Young Son, available from October 1 to December 31, 2025. These limited-time offerings combine bold flavours with refined craftsmanship, highlighting TORA’s signature Aburi technique, where each piece is flame-seared to enhance the natural essence of premium ingredients. Guests can now enjoy the Spicy Salmon Oshi ($4.75), Spicy Tuna Oshi ($4.75), and Maguro Oshi ($7.50), each crafted to showcase sushi at its finest, where tradition meets innovation in a truly memorable dining experience. The new Oshi features are available now at Aburi TORA, Yorkdale Shopping Centre.

New Oshi Features
Spicy Salmon Oshi
Sockeye salmon, spicy miso sauce, crispy onion, dried parsley
Spicy Tuna Oshi
Tuna, spicy Miku sauce, pickled pepper, green onion
Maguro Oshi
Toro, Miku sauce

At the heart of TORA’s culinary philosophy is the Aburi technique, a traditional method of flame searing that caramelizes the fish’s natural oils and enhances umami. This hallmark of the Aburi brand transforms each bite into a delicate balance of warmth, texture, and flavour. Located in Yorkdale Shopping Centre, TORA pairs elevated craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology, offering guests an interactive dining experience that merges contemporary convenience with timeless Japanese artistry.
Available for a limited time only, this seasonal feature invites guests to savour sushi that celebrates Aburi innovation through balance, precision, and bold flavour.

About TORA
Aburi TORA, sister restaurant to Miku, is known for its premium Aburi sushi that blends Japanese tradition with modern innovation. Founded by Seigo Nakamura of Miyazaki, Japan, the restaurant reimagines the classic Kaiten sushi experience for Toronto diners. Using a state-of-the-art sushi laneway system, dishes travel directly from the chef’s hands to the table, creating a seamless and personalized dining experience that reflects the precision and artistry of Japanese culinary craftsmanship.

Elevation Pictures has inked a deal with iconic filmmaker John Carpenter, the filmmaker behind hits like Halloween and The Thing, on a new horror anthology titled “John Carpenter Presents”. Created by Michael Amo (Pure, The Listener) and Will Pascoe (Orphan Black, Absentia), the new series will channel Carpenter’s signature storytelling, iconic visual style, and legendary musical sensibility.

Based on an original story by Amo and Pascoe, season one is set in the remote wilderness of Alaska, where a diverse group of characters face a chilling mix of supernatural and existential terror. “John Carpenter Presents” will explore the hidden fears and social anxieties of our time.

“We’re thrilled to launch into the television space with the master of horror, John Carpenter,” says Christina Piovesan of Elevation Pictures. “Will and Michael bring deep experience in writing and showrunning, and we can’t be more excited for this creative team to bring the series to audiences.”

Executive producers include Amo and Pascoe, Storm King Productions’ John Carpenter and Sandy King Carpenter and Elevation Pictures.

For Elevation, this marks a definitive expansion into television for the distribution and production powerhouse. The announcement follows the success of the production team’s recent documentary feature Lilith Fair: Building a Mystery, which premiered US and internationally on Hulu and Disney+ to a strong critical reception.