JUSTIN WALDMAN (@DubsReviews)
1. Outside of walking Donnie (his Shorkie) and work, we watch a lot of TV. Binged Fringe in a week, half way through my countless re-watch of Community and Netflix is adding some great content so that keeps me entertained.
2. I miss being able to go outside and not worry about being outside.
3. Fringe minus Season 5, if youâre into trash Too Hot Too Handle, Disney+ has everything your childhood or adulthood consisted of in terms of classics like Kim Possible, Recess, X-Men the Animated Series. At the end of May theyâre fixing the aspect ratio on The Simpsons, so thereâs 11-13 quality seasons of Television, with another 17 seasons sprinkled in.
4. Tenet. Nothing short of it. Itâs also one of two movies that is still tentatively opening this year that I can remember. Haha
NICHOLAS PORTEOUS (@NoveltyHat)
1. Most of my days involve checking current turnip prices in the morning and reporting them to my close circle of Animal Crossing confidants while tending to my island, going for an indoor bike ride while PokĂ©battling, attempting to make some progress on a 1000-piece Mexico Tourism puzzle I bought for $3 long before the Pandemic–hardest puzzle of my life–developing personal projects like sketches, shorts and video essays, working the odd gig that comes my way whether that’s editing or virtual hosting, a round or two of Fortnite, and an unhealthy amount of streaming.
2. I miss people. People were fun. I miss not being even a little selective about where I went or who I saw. Thankfully, I still have a girlfriend (for half the week)! I miss Theatre and Film. I miss the streetcar! I miss thinking about going on a trip, even if I didn’t actually go.
3. For my money, COVID-viewing is all about finding the lengthiest entertainment:
– When the Levees Broke is a fantastic four-part HBO Documentary Series by Spike Lee about Hurricane Katrina and its aftermath. It feels awfully relevant right now, and makes me extremely thankful to be Canadian, and to be dealing with a crisis that hasn’t come anywhere close to unraveling my life.
– OJ: Made in America is another towering long-form Doc that leaves American Crime Story in the dust–IMO–by putting the trial in its much needed, painfully ironic civil rights context. This must be the fifth time I’ve watched all seven-ish hours and it never ceases to astound me.
– Middleditch and Schwartz is a Netflix experiment in long-form improv, and I hope it becomes a long-term part of their programming! Each of the three specials is comedy magic. Two best buds making impressively elaborate nonsense over a single sustained narrative.
– Survivor: Winners at War is a flawed, but fantastic season of one the all-time great shows. And there’s a cool bonus feeling of normalcy from tuning in live, only to be reminded of the virus by EVERY commercial masquerading as a PSA.
– The Pop Culture Detective is a YouTube channel featuring longer essays about unsettling trends in mainstream masculinity. It’s eye-opening, exhaustive and genuinely entertaining to unpack. For any Creator, it’s fun to imagine what Film, TV and Video Games might look like if these ideas were taken into account.
– Finally, there’s a lot of excellent, free theatre on offer right now. Check the YouTube channels for National Theatre, Shakespeare’s Globe and Stratford Festival.
4. Post-COVID anticipations:
– I’m very excited to see A Quiet Place Part II because it was supposed to be my first assignment for Mr. Will Wong as a Contributor! If it’s not streamed, going to see it will signify some kind of return to the things I’ve missed.
– I’m Thinking of Ending Things is Charlie Kaufman’s next. If it comes into existence after this tragically low-output period in his career, that’ll be a major win in itself.
– Who WASN’T excited for Tenet, the next Chris Nolan madhouse?? It looks to be the purest expression of his timeplay aesthetic.
– Barbie, Greta Gerwig‘s next, co-written by Noah Baumbach and starring Margot Robbie as, yeah, BARBIE. No explanation needed.
– Annette, Leos Carax’s first film since Holy Motors eight years ago, easily one of the top movies of the 2010s.
– The Tragedy of Macbeth, with a surprisingly solo-directing Joel Coen.
– The Many Saints of Newark. It’s theoretically another couple of episodes of The Sopranos. I’ll be there.
I’m excited for all the virus-related Filmmaking we’re in store for generally. Processing this moment in history through any lens–whether it’s a personal narrative, Doc, or demented Sci-Fi extrapolation–will be an essential part of our collective recovery. I made a Short Film in isolation and it certainly helped. This is the dawn of a genre.
AMANDA GILMORE (@GilmoreAmanda)
1. My average day in isolation mainly consists of reading a lot of books. If anyone is looking for one I HIGHLY recommend The Wives by Tarryn Fisher. I do some at-home workouts to keep my energy and spirits up. And I’ve been doing some free online courses to keep my brain stimulated.
2. What I miss most about my pre-isolation life is being able to go out for dinner and sitting in a cinema.
3. Let’s be serious though, I’ve been watching a lot of TV and Movies! If you are looking for some recommendations mine are below:
NETFLIX: Watch or re-watch THE OFFICE. I watched it from beginning to end for my third-time while in quarantine and it brought me so much joy.
TV: Sunday’s just got better because the Third Season of KILLING EVE has finally begun. If you haven’t watched before, please do so! The Show’s phenomenal.
MOVIES: BOOKSMART and THE INVISIBLE MAN are outstanding!
4. I have a gigantic list of movies I can’t wait to see in the cinema, once it’s safe to do so! One at the top of my list is A QUIET PLACE: PART II.
1. Since self-isolation, I have been vacillating between hyperactivity and heavenly sloth. Case in point: I have just shy of 1500 titles on DVD and Blu ray. When the precariously-stacked hundreds of movies inevitably fulfilled its destiny and tumbled, leaving my living room floor carpeted in a psychedelic kaleidoscope of plastic covered movie art, I damp wiped, dried, reorganized, re-shelved and documented 1500 movies. Since then, freshly showered but unshaven (rueful that my beard will never attain Michael McDonald or Dave Baldwin greatness), I lounge on my sofa and have movie themed days…French language cinema, trilogies of movies I’m embarrassed to admit I own (50 Shades), sequels I’ve never seen to movies I enjoyed (Now You See Me 2, Maleficent 2). Today, as I transform five pounds of stewing beef into Hungarian Goulash, it will either be the last three Star Wars movies or the best of Xavier Dolan or finally start watching Downton Abbey.
2. What I miss, the few times I venture out to get provisions, is the energy I always get when walking the streets of Toronto. The vibrancy of living in Canada’s most diverse city is curtailed. I also miss dinner parties. And hugs…man, do I ever miss hugs!
3. I was quite impressed with RESISTANCE (VOD), the true story of famed Mime Artist, Marcel Marceau and how he saved hundreds of Jewish orphans during WWII. In what could have been a disastrous casting choice, Jesse Eisenberg (in real life, 36 years old) gives an awards-calibre performance as Marceau (who wasn’t even 20 years old when the Movie evens took place). I also really enjoyed Hugh Jackman in BAD EDUCATION (Crave). On the TV front, I am a big fan of CTV‘s latest Drama TRANSPLANT with its many Toronto location shots and the powerful work from its lead actor, Hamza Haq. Lastly, I am obsessed with ZOEY’S EXTRAORDINARY PLAYLISTÂ and TOP CHEF (both the Canadian and American versions).
4. Once it will be safe to savour movies again on the big screen, there are three movies I am salivating to see: MULAN, IN THE HEIGHTS and Spielberg‘s version of WEST SIDE STORY.
DAVE BALDWIN (@DaveMABaldwin)
1. Average day the past six weeks has revolved entirely around feeding, changing and calming down baby Quentin. Not much I can do outside of watch TV/Movies — there’s no time for anything else!
2. I miss having conversations inside my house with family and friends, as opposed to standing six feet apart in my driveway. I’d also prefer to not have to wear gloves and a mask when I leave the house.
3. I’ve been enjoying watching Feel Good and The Last Dance on Netflix, and Run on Crave. Fleabag as well on Amazon Prime, so good! And spent way too much time watching repeats of The Big Bang Theory.
Movie-wise, I enjoyed The Half of It on Netflix and re-watching Once Upon a Time in…Hollywood on Crave. Looking forward to watching Blood Quantum and The Assistant on VOD in the coming weeks!
4. Toss-up between Tenet and No Time to Die.
1. My average day follows my normal routine as much as possible. Get-up at seven and get ready for work, only now I donât go into the office. Washed and caffeinated, I plug away on my computer at home for eight to ten hours. Then itâs time for my daily walk before I jump on Xbox. After gaming, I close out the day with Netflix and a book in bed. Lately, Iâve been reading Victor Hugoâs The Hunchback of Notre Dame.
2. As the French term it, âjoie de vivre.â That cheerful enjoyment of life â en masse â is missed.
3. Netflix has been killing it lately with great TV like:
âą Tiger King
âą The Last Dance
âą Never Have I Ever
âą Nadiyaâs Time to Eat
âą Ghost in the Shell SAC_2045
Iâve also been loving Star Wars: The Clone Wars and Prop Culture on Disney+, and finally got around to watching His Dark Materials… it was amazing. I canât wait for Season 2.
2. Iâm excited for movies in general. I miss the theatre. Despite building myself a great home theatre, I still prefer the traditional experience. It makes movie watching an event, and I miss that level of depth to the experience. That said, as for specific films Iâm looking forward to, definitely Mulan. I havenât been excited for a Disney âlive-actionâ ever, but that movie looks beautiful. In addition, Iâm itching for Tenet. I need the sublimation that comes from films like Nolanâs.
1. While Covid-19 has halted many aspects of my life, my work life remains really busy as we are supporting people impacted at work.
On the website, I am more focusing on streaming releases and running promotions for digital and on-demand versus theatrical releases right now.
Luckily, I get to work from home, so I can be there with my parents right now who are at risk and elderly. I enjoy keeping them excited about food, helping with errands, household tasks, groceries and cooking. I look forward to making new things all the time (which I’ve been posting on my Instagram: mrwillwong). I also enjoy singing and have been posting covers of songs I adore too!
While I don’t have the gym access I normally do, I try to fit-in long walks (sometimes just to take-out Bubble Tea!). That helps clear my mind. I have literally run out of things to watch on Netflix and Amazon Prime!
2. I miss my movies in the theatre and pumping everyone up about new releases, but that will come again!
I miss seeing my coworkers, team and friends in-person but thankfully feel like I haven’t skipped a step with chat platforms and Social Media.
I miss also seeing my godchildren (Mr Will & Princess) and can’t wait to go on adventure to the country to see them. I miss seeing the horse races live and photographing them, which has been my weekend love for years.
And going to Starbucks.
3. FX’s Mrs. America is mindblowingly-good. I love great acting at the Cast is sublime. The characters are so well-written and acted and I love that everyone is grappling with complicated conflicts.
I have watched a lot of cooking and baking shows like all seasons of The Great Canadian Baking Show, Nailed It! and The Chef’s Line and those are awesome, quick watches.
I zipped through Hollywood and Season 3 of Ozark quickly too. Just saw A Secret Love (about two real-life Rockford Peaches from A League of their Own) and am half-way through Never Have I Ever.
4. I need to see Mulan. It pains me I was literally three days away from attending a press screening for it when isolation started. Also, West Side Story and Top Gun: Maverick.
Stay in-touch with us at Mr. Will on Facebook and comment on this post some of your recommendations and what you’re looking forward to post-isolation!
2019 was a remarkable year in Cinema. More than ever are we seeing Netflix and female Directors at the forefront and you will see this in the Team’s year’s best. Once again we are thrilled to share our favourites with you and would love to see how these align with your own personal faves. If you haven’t caught-up yet on your 2019 viewing, we hope the Team gives you some inspiration for your Holiday viewing!
Enjoy the rest of your Holidays and to an even more amazing 2020!
Team Mr. Will
(There in spirit: Amanda Gilmore, SiobhĂĄn Rich)
A farewell to beloved Thompson Diner, where we held our 2019 Holiday Brunch.
AMANDA GILMORE (@GilmoreAmanda on Twitter)
In my opinion, this year has been one of the strongest years in Film for a VERY long time. We had amazing diverse creative talents in front and behind the camera who have worked together to make outstanding work, which is precisely why making this Top Ten list has been extremely difficult for me. I would love to write a Top 30 list if I was allowed, but sadly Iâm not. Because of this, I have made my list according to my favourite films of the year that I could also re-watch multiple times for years to come. I have also added some honourable mentions because let’s face it, this year was flipping awesome!
DISCLAIMER: I have yet to see 1917 at the time of writing this list.
The Films below are listed in alphabetical order, they are not ranked.
Booksmart
Honey Boy
Jojo Rabbit
Joker
Knives Out
Late Night
Little Women
Marriage Story
Parasite
Us
Honourable Mentions:
The Peanut Butter Falcon: an extremely touching and unique coming-of-age story.
Ready Or Not: an inventive thriller with one wickedly funny and badass female lead.
Rocketman: I LOVE Elton John and this film was a knockout!
JONATHAN GODFREY (@FFCottage on Instagram)
Written in order the release, the following are my faves for 2019: winter began with If Beale Street Could Talk, a tale of struggle set to a mesmerizing score. Next, Alita: Battle Angel, a great anime adaptation with mesmerizing MOCAP (Motion Capture) work. Spring brought Toy Story 4, a 3D spectacle for the ages; and Once Upon a Time…In Hollywood, another spectacular Script from Tarantino. IT Chapter 2 scared me silly this summer, and A Hidden Life was my TIFF ’19 darling. Fall brought with it a Trilogy of favorites: the powerful performance piece, Joker; the breathtaking animation of Frozen 2; and of course, a forever favorite, Star Wars Episode IX: The Rise of Skywalker. Winter has returned, and with it, Little Women, a wondrous adaption to warm this holiday season. I have high hopes for 2020, including: Dune, Tenet, Mulan, No Time to Die and Bill & Ted Face the Music.
GEORGE KOZERA (@PartyG on Twitter)
2019 was a banner year for me, watching movies in a darkened theatre. I saw many impressive features from either first-time Directors or from established awards winners. Netflix, the little distribution company that could, released movies that were eclectic in genres and superior in quality and for the second year in a row, one of its offerings made my list as Number One. I saw movies that bored deeply into my skin and heart and mind and soul. It is with apologies to the Christmas releases that I have yet to see (Little Women, Bombshell, 1917, Uncut Gems) and too many Honorable Mentions to list that I submit my Top Ten of 2019:
1. Marriage Story
2. Jojo Rabbit
3. Waves
4. Once Upon a Time…in Hollywood
5. Parasite
6. The Irishman
7. Knives Out
8. The Last Black Man in San Francisco
9. Joker
10. Rocketman
JUSTIN WALDMAN (@DubsReviews on Twitter)
2019 has certainly been an interesting year for movies. We saw the end of The Skywalker Saga, the warfare between Netflix and Distributors continues to grow increasingly-tense, Scorsese and Iger are teasing a conversation. Movies had more surprises this year, and there have been some genuinely heartwarming and enlightening movies this year. In alphabetical order here are my top 10 movies to end out the decade.
Booksmart
Olivia Wilde directing Beanie Feldstein and Kaitlyn Dever may have been the most unexpected, most hilarious thing I have seen all year but this Movie is endlessly-fantastic. It is the only Movie I have seen countless times this year, it became an instant classic for myself, that will be adored for the ages.
Jojo Rabbit
Taika Waititi in my mind can do no wrong when it comes to filmmaking. Ragnarok, What We Do In The Shadows,and Hunt for the Wilderpeople. Waititi constantly delivers genuinely heartwarming and hilarious movies. Jojo Rabbit is no exception to that, the WWII satire is everything I expected of it and more.
Joker
I love some brilliant Joaquin. I love me some Joker. I just love this Movie. It is haunting and ingenious, but please for everything that makes this great, do not make a Sequel.
Knives Out
This Whodunit was one of the biggest questions from this Agatha Christie-esque film. It was marvelously-acted, packs a punch, and let’s face it, were all obsessing about knitted sweaters now.
The Lighthouse
I couldnât begin to tell you what I thought I was getting myself into when I went to see this. All I can tell you is that it is one of the strangest, brilliant movies Iâve seen all year and I still think about it all these months later.
Little Women
Moment of truth, this was my first Little Women and what Greta Gerwig manages to do with it is nothing short of inspiring. However when you have Emma Watson, Florence Pugh, Timothée Chalamet, Meryl Streep and Saoirse Ronan its also hard not to be delighted the entire time.
Midsommar
This was horrifying. Ari Aster still manages to haunt me with his brilliant Horror Film. The Director’s Cut is significantly better than the theatrical cut as well, as well as more haunting when you pay attention to the background. There is nothing else to say.
Parasite
If youâve seen it, you know EXACTLY why its on the list. If you have not, why are you waiting? Stop reading immediately and go see the Movie. There is literally no reason not to. It is brilliant and deserves all the acclaim.
Uncut Gems
Give Sandman everything. This Movie is neurotic, anxiety-inducing acid and you cannot look away. I felt dirty after watching the Movie, but I canât shake it. Adam Sandler has never delivered a better performance.
Waves
This Movie broke me, is the easiest way to put it. It is beautiful, it is tragic, it is heartwarming, it is heartbreaking. This Movie launches a rocket right into the feelings and explodes on impact.
2020, youâre the start of a new decade, you better deliver as well as if not better than 2019.
DAVID BALDWIN (@DaveMABaldwin on Twitter)
1. Parasite
2. Jojo Rabbit
3. Marriage Story
4. The Farewell
5. Us
6. Once Upon A TimeâŠIn Hollywood
7. Honey Boy
8. Blinded By The Light
9. 1917
10. Booksmart
2019 will go down as one of the best years for Film this decade â maybe even the singular best one. There is so much to say about these ten brilliant Films, and even more to say about the multitude of films that did not make this list. Yes, many will remember this year for the end of The Avengers and Star Wars Sagas. But others will remember it for the magnificent new discoveries that were made, for the masters making some of their best work to date and for the actors we completely wrote-off giving us plenty of reasons to remember them again. I lived, breathed and loved so many movies this year. And know that with the impending birth of my first child, that so much about next year and the next decade of my filmgoing life is going to be so drastically different. So it might just be the nostalgia talking, but I doubt I will ever see another exquisite year of Cinema like this ever again.
Mr. Will’s 2019 Best-Of List is here.
(Photo credit: Netflix/Fox Searchlight/MK2/Mongrel Media/Sony Pictures/Mr. Will Wong)
It’s officially Awards Season! Nominees for the Golden Globes were just announced earlier today. The Awards voted upon by the Hollywood Foreign Press Association, are to be televised Sunday, January 5, 2020 on NBC, celebrate the year’s best in Television and Cinema. Ricky Gervais returns as host.
In the Film categories, we see JOKER, THE IRISHMAN, MARRIAGE STORY and ONCE UPON A TIME IN HOLLYWOOD… leading the way, while the Television categories we see THE MORNING SHOW, SUCCESSION, FLEABAG, THE CROWN and BIG LITTLE LIES on-top.
The Golden Globes are never without surprises. Many are shocked not to see IT’S A BEAUTIFUL DAY IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD up for Best Motion Picture, same for FORD V FERRARI. TIFF ’19 People’s Choice Award winner  JOJO RABBIT only sees two nods and Director Taika Waiti isn’t among those included. While there was a bit of buzz for Greta Gerwig‘s Little Women, the Film only would see nominations for Score and Lead Actress, Saoirse Ronan. While it garnered lots of critical acclaim, Drama WAVES failed to garner any attention by the HFPA.
Complete list of nominees below:
Best Motion Picture â Drama
The Irishman
Joker
The Two Popes
Marriage Story
1917
Best Motion Picture â Musical or Comedy
Once Upon a Time in Hollywood
Knives Out
Dolemite Is My Name
Jojo Rabbit
Rocketman
Best Motion Picture â Foreign Language
The Farewell
Pain and Glory
Parasite
Portrait of a Lady on Fire
Les Misérables
Best Director â Motion Picture
Martin Scorsese, The Irishman
Quentin Tarantino, Once Upon a Time in Hollywood
Bong Joon-ho, Parasite
Sam Mendes, 1917
Todd Phillips, Joker
Best Screenplay â Motion Picture
Quentin Tarantino, Once Upon a Time in Hollywood
Noah Baumbach, Marriage Story
Anthony McCarten, The Two Popes
Bong Joon-ho and Han Jin-won, Parasite
Steven Zaillian, The Irishman
Best Performance by an Actress in a Motion Picture â Drama
Renée Zellweger, Judy
Charlize Theron, Bombshell
Saoirse Ronan, Little Women
Cynthia Erivo, Harriet
Scarlett Johansson, Marriage Story
Best Performance by an Actor in a Motion Picture â Drama
Christian Bale, Ford v Ferrari
Joaquin Phoenix, Joker
Antonio Banderas, Pain and Glory
Jonathan Pryce, The Two Popes
Adam Driver, Marriage Story
Best Performance by an Actress in a Motion Picture â Musical or Comedy
Awkwafina, The Farewell
Beanie Feldstein, Booksmart
Ana de Armas, Knives Out
Emma Thompson, Late Night
Cate Blanchett, Whereâd You Go, Bernadette?
Best Performance by an Actor in a Motion Picture â Musical or Comedy
Leonardo DiCaprio, Once Upon a Time in Hollywood
Eddie Murphy, Dolemite Is My Name
Daniel Craig, Knives Out
Taron Egerton, Rocketman
Roman Griffin Davis, Jojo Rabbit
Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role in any Motion Picture
Jennifer Lopez, Hustlers
Laura Dern, Marriage Story
Margot Robbie, Bombshell
Kathy Bates, Richard Jewell
Annette Bening, The Report
Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role in any Motion Picture
Brad Pitt, Once Upon a Time in Hollywood
Al Pacino, The Irishman
Tom Hanks, A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood
Joe Pesci, The Irishman
Anthony Hopkins, The Two Popes
Best Motion Picture â Animated
Frozen 2
Toy Story 4
How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World
Missing Link
The Lion King
Best Original Score â Motion Picture
Thomas Newman, 1917
Hildur Guonadottir, Joker
Randy Newman, Marriage Story
Alexandre Desplat, Little Women
Daniel Pemberton, Motherless Brooklyn
Best Original Song â Motion Picture
â(Iâm Gonna) Love Me Again,â Rocketman
âSpirit,â The Lion King
âInto the Unknown,â Frozen 2
âStand Up,â Harriet
âBeautiful Ghosts,â Cats
Best Television Series â Musical or Comedy
Barry
The Politician
Fleabag
The Kominsky Method
The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel
Best Television Series â Drama
The Crown
The Morning Show
Succession
Big Little Lies
Killing Eve
Best Performance by an Actor in a Television Series â Drama
Brian Cox, Succession
Tobias Menzies, The Crown
Billy Porter, Pose
Kit Harington, Game of Thrones
Rami Malek, Mr. Robot
Best Performance by an Actress in a Television Series â Drama
Jennifer Aniston, The Morning Show
Olivia Colman, The Crown
Jodie Comer, Killing Eve
Nicole Kidman, Big Little Lies
Reese Witherspoon, The Morning Show
Best Performance by an Actress in a Television Series â Musical or Comedy
Rachel Brosnahan, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel
Kirsten Dunst, On Becoming a God in Central Florida
Christina Applegate, Dead to Me
Natasha Lyonne, Russian Doll
Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Fleabag
Best Performance by an Actor in a Television Series â Musical or Comedy
Michael Douglas, The Kominsky Method
Bill Hader, Barry
Ben Platt, The Politician
Paul Rudd, Living With Yourself
Ramy Youssef, Ramy
Best Television Limited Series or Motion Picture Made for Television
Loudest Voice
Chernobyl
Unbelievable
Fosse/Verdon
Catch-22
Best Performance by an Actor in a Limited Series or Motion Picture Made for Television
Sam Rockwell, Fosse/Verdon
Russell Crowe, The Loudest Voice
Jared Harris, Chernobyl
Christopher Abbott, Catch-22
Sacha Baron Cohen, The Spy
Best Performance by an Actress in a Limited Series or Motion Picture Made for Television
Helen Mirren, Catherine the Great
Michelle Williams, Fosse/Verdon
Merritt Weaver, Unbelievable
Kaitlyn Dever, Unbelievable
Joey King, The Act
Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role in a Series, Limited Series or Motion Picture Made for Television
Toni Colette, Unbelievable
Meryl Streep, Big Little Lies
Helena Bonham Carter, The Crown
Patricia Arquette, The Act
Emily Watson, Chernobyl
Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role in a Series, Limited Series or Motion Picture Made for Television
Alan Arkin, The Kominsky Method
Kieran Culkin, Succession
Henry Winkler, Barry
Andrew Scott, Fleabag
Stellan Skarsgard, Chernobyl
By Amanda Gilmore, David Baldwin and Mr. Will Wong
Running Thursday, September 5 through Sunday, September 15, 2019, the Toronto International Film Festival soon is before us. The first wave of announcements were made today out of Festival Headquarters, TIFF Bell Lightbox, for its Special Presentations and Gala Programmes and we can expect once again very star-studded precursor to what and who will be the key players this Awards Season.
333 Films will screen at the Festival, 245 of which are Features, 82 which are Shorts and six which are Series. Of these, 133 are World Premieres, 25 are International Premieres and 71 are North American Premieres. 35% of Titles are directed, co-directed or created by women and 21 are LGBTQ+ stories! 280,000 visitors are expected to visit Festival Street!
Previously announced, Daniel Roher‘s Documentary ONCE WERE BROTHERS: ROBBIE ROBERTSON AND THE BANDÂ follows the Canadian Music icon Robertson’s earlier days on a reserve and in Toronto to the rise of his Roots-Rock group, The Band. Martin Scorcese, Ron Howard and Brian Grazer produce the Film.
Highlighting TIFF ’19’s lineup are highly-buzzed Films like JUDY, FORD V FERRARI, A BEAUTIFUL DAY IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD, JOKER, CLEMENCY, THE LIGHTHOUSE, THE REPORT, PAIN AND GLORY, THE GOLDFINCH, BAD EDUCATION, KNIVES OUT, JOJO RABBIT, HUSTLERS, ABONIMABLE, AMERICAN WOMAN and more.
We can expect to see big stars like Matt Damon, Christian Bale, Jennifer Lopez, Tom Hanks, Nicole Kidman, Hugh Jackman, Scarlett Johansson and Adam Driver in town, the latter two whom each have two Films at the Festival!
GALAS
The Galas at this years Toronto International Film Festival are shooting for the stars. To start we are getting A BEAUTIFUL DAY IN THE NEIGHBORHOODÂ starring the one and only Tom Hanks. The Film follows Fred Rodgers, played by Hanks, and the importance he had on generations. Hopefully, Hanks travels North and we can all catch a glimpse of “Hollywoodâs Nicest Star”.
On the roll with the star-power is FORD V FERRARI starring Matt Damon and Christian Bale. It depicts the 1966 â24 Hours of Le Mansâ endurance race between the American automotive engineers and Ferrari. Both are regulars at TIFF and we expect to see them once again this year.
We are also getting HUSTLERS starring Jennifer Lopez, Cardi B, Constance Wu and Julia Stiles. The film follows the four women who are former strippers and come together to turn the tables on Wall Street. This is going to be one carpet everyone will be having their eyes on.
If the star-power isnât enough for TIFF they are also bringing some Films who are looking like early awards contenders since the drop of their trailers. THE GOLDFINCH starring Nicole Kidman and Ansel Elgort, tells the story of a boys life is changed forever after a terrorist attack at an art museum. There is HARRIET, starring Cynthia Erivo, who plays Harriet Tubman. The Trailer was released earlier today and it’s safe to say that all eyes should be on Erivo this TIFF. CLEMENCY was also announced today as a Gala Film which won the top prize at Sundance earlier this year. It follows a death-row prison warden (Alfre Woodard) who is coming to terms with the psychological effects of her job. As someone who has seen it, I can confirm that it should be at the top of everyone’s Must-See list for the Festival.
There were two Films announced today that stuck out because they arenât genres typically picked for the Gala Programme. The one that stands out the most is JOKER starring Joaquin Phoenix. I could not be happier to hear that a comic book film is getting its premiere at TIFF, one of the biggest platforms for Film in North America. The other pick in the Programme is ABONIMABLE. Usually, an animated Film would be chosen in the Kids Programme, but not this year. Since these two films have made it into one of the more prestigious Programmes at the Festival, we need to keep our eyes on them.
Some Trailers from the Gala Porgramme:
Abominable (dir. Jill Culton, Todd Wilderman)
A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood (dir. Marielle Heller)
Harriet (dir. Kasi Lemmons)
The Goldfinch (dir. John Crowley)
Hustlers (dir. Lorene Scafaria)
Joker (dir. Todd Phillips)
SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS
If those first Gala films were not exciting enough, than the list of Special Presentations are practically swoon-worthy!
The Special Presenations Programme will kick off with the World Premiere of Unjoo Moonâs I AM WOMAN, a Biopic about Australian singer Helen Reddy. Among other World Premieres, weâre excited for the fact-based Dramedy BAD EDUCATION starring Hugh Jackman, Ray Romano and Oscar-winner Allison Janney; Rudy Ray Moore Biopic Dolemite Is My Name starring Eddie Murphy, Wesley Snipes, Chris Rock, Craig Robinson and Keegan-Michael Key; Drake Doremusâ love-triangle romance ENDINGS, BEGINNINGS with Shailene Woodley, Sebastian Stan and Jamie Dornan; Taika Waititiâs Nazi satire JOJO RABBIT starring Sam Rockwell, Scarlett Johansson and Rebel Wilson; the coming-of-age HOW TO BUILD A GIRL starring Beanie Feldstein, Chris OâDowd and Emma Thompson; Armando Iannucciâs THE PERSONAL HISTORY OF DAVID COPPERFIELD starring Dev Patel, Tilda Swinton, High Laurie and Ben Whishaw; as well as Rian Johnsonâs absolutely star-studded whodunit caper KNIVES OUT featuring Daniel Craig, Chris Evans, Jamie Lee Curtis and Michael Shannon.
And among the North American and International Premieres, we have Renee Zellwegerâs turn as Judy Garland in JUDY; the Safdie Brothersâ highly anticipated UNCUT GEMS starring Adam Sandler in a rare dramatic role; Steven Soderberghâs latest THE LAUNDROMAT starring Meryl Streep and Gary Oldman; Scott Z. Burnsâ searing political thriller THE REPORT starring Adam Driver; the semi-autobiographical HONEY BOY starring Shia LaBeouf; Noah Baumbachâs divorce Drama MARRIAGE STORYÂ starring Adam Driver and Scarlett Johansson; Edward Nortonâs long-gestating thriller MOTHERLESS BROOKLYN; as well as critically acclaimed Festival hits like Pedro AlmodĂłvarâs PAIN AND GLORY starring Antonio Banderas; Robert Eggersâ THE LIGHTHOUSE starring Willem Dafoe and Robert Pattinson and Bong Joon-hoâs Palme dâOr-winning PARASITE.
Some Trailers from the Special Presenations Programme:
Lucy in the Sky (dir. Noah Hawley)
The Lighthouse (dir. Robert Eggers)
Jojo Rabbit (dir. Taika Waititi)
Pain and Glory (dir. Pedro AlmodĂłvar)
Judy (dir. Rupert Goold)
Knives Out (dir. Rian Johnson)
UPDATE – 7/31/19 CANADIAN FILMS ADDED
Today TIFF released the Films joining the festival line-up made by Canadian Filmmakers. This year they donât fall short in representing their homegrown talent with placing 26 Canadian Features in various Programmes.
Previously announced Canadian Features The Song of Names, American Woman and Once Were Brothers: Robbie Robertson and The Band were placed in the Gala Programme, Guest of Honour in Special Presentations Directed by Atom Egoyan and David Foster: Off the Record was announced yesterday as a Special Event. But after todayâs announcement, there is a prominent Canadian presence in nearly all programmes.
The opening Midnight Madness Programme film is the Canadian Blood Quantum directed by Jeff Barnaby about zombies who have taken over the world but an isolated Miâgmaq community is immune to the plague. In Special Presentations there is Clifton Hill which stars iconic Filmmaker David Cronenberg and Hannah Gross about a girl who returns to Niagara Falls and remembers a kidnapping from her childhood. In Contemporary World Cinema there is Castle in the Ground starring Alex Wolff, Imogen Poots, Neve Campbell and Tom Cullen about opioid addiction. In the TIFF Docs Programme, there are three Canadian Features: Coppers directed by Alan Zweig, This Is Not A Movie directed by Yung Change and Thereâs Something in the Water directed by Ellen Page and Ian Daniel.
Not only were the movies announced but also the four TIFF Canadian Rising Stars. Kacey Rohl will star in White Lies in the CWC Programme about a girl who becomes a celebrity after receiving a cancer diagnosis. Mikhail Ahooja will be in the Midnight Madness selection The Twentieth Century which is a gonzo history film about William Lyon Mackenzie Kingâs abject humiliations. NahĂ©ma Ricci will be in Sophie Deraspeâs Antigone which is a reigning of the Greek tragedy. And Shamier Anderson who will be in the Shailene Woodley, Jamie Dornan and Sebastian Stan starring Endings, Beginnings.
UPDATE: 8/7/19 – PLATFORM PROGRAMME
A new week brings a new round of TIFF ’19 announcements! Today, we found out what the Platform Programme will bring us this September. Now in its fifth year at the Festival, the competitive Programme will bring together World Premiere films from across the world â each one competing for a $20,000 Canadian prize. This yearâs jury includes Berlinale Artistic Director Carlo Chatrian, Film Critic Jessica Kiang, and Filmmaker Athina Rachel Tsangari. 40% of this yearâs slate is directed by women.
The Programme will open with ROCKS, directed by acclaimed British Filmmaker Sarah Gavron and revolves around a teenage girl struggling to care for herself and her younger brother. Other films included in the Programme are Julie Delpyâs suspenseful drama MY ZOE starring Delpy, Daniel BrĂŒhl, Gemma Arterton and Richard Armitage; Darius Marderâs debut SOUND OF METAL starring Riz Ahmed and Olivia Cooke; the Astronaut Drama PROXIMA starring Eva Green and Matt Dillon; Anthony Chenâs highly-anticipated second feature WET SEASON regarding the special bond between a teacher and a student at the Singapore high school; the Spanish Thriller THE MONEYCHANGER set in the world of currency buying and selling; Family Drama THE SLEEPWALKERS from Argentina/Uruguay; Mexicoâs class-conscious Drama WORKFORCE and the Canadian made ANNE AT 13,000 FEET about the everyday challenges faced by a young woman. The Programme will conclude with Pietro Marcelloâs MARTIN EDEN concerning a sailor trying to remake himself as a Writer.
UPDATE 8/8/19 – DOCUMENTARIES
There were big announcements for the TIFF ’19 today, including the Docs Programme. There were 25 Documentaries announced including 18 World Premieres with representation from 18 countries.Pr The Films in this year’s programme have themes of artistic achievement, the power of journalism, immigration, global politics, and resistance against corrupt leaders.
The opening Doc will be THE CAVE from Oscar-nominated Director Feras Fayyad. It follows a female doctor in war-torn Syria and the underground hospital she leads. For fans of the brilliant True Crime Author Truman Capote, you can catch THE CAPOTE TAPES created by first-time Director Ebs Burnough who previously worked under the Obama Administration. And for political fans, prominent Documentarian Alex Gibney is coming to TIFF with CITIZEN K profiling Mikail Khodorkovsky, who turned against Vladimir Putin.
If you are looking to catch some stars during TIFF this year, look no further than the TIFF Docs Programme. Leonardo DiCaprio is a Producer on AND WE GO GREEN, about racers in the Formula E competition for electric cars. Bryce Dallas Howard will be making her first Documentary with DADS, which explores fatherhood with leading comedians and her own father, Ron Howard. And Rap Superstars Drake and Future are Executive Producers on READY FOR WAR, which tells the important and heartbreaking story of immigrants who served in the US military only to be deported.
UPDATE 8/8/18 – MIDNIGHT MADNESS PROGRAMME
The midnight hour is close at hand TIFFgoers! After giving us a taste of things to come at last weekâs Canadian film announcement, TIFF has released their full Midnight Madness lineup â and it looks like we are in for ten days of wild insanity.
Among those announced today are Richard Stanleyâs COLOR OUT OF SPACE starring Midnight Madness royalty and spirit animal to many, Nicolas Cage. The Film is an adaptation of an H.P. Lovecraft Horror Short about what happens to a New England family after a meteor lands on their property. Maestro Takashi Miike also returns with FIRST LOVE, about a boxer and a drug addict caught in the middle of two gangs at war. Also among todayâs announcements are dystopian nightmare THE PLATFORM about prisoners in a high-tech prison, Psychological Thriller SAINT MAUD about a nurse obsessed with saving her dying patient, Indonesian superhero epic GUNDALA; spooky overnight watch Thriller THE VIGIL and the Sci-Fi Thriller THE VAST OF NIGHT, which won the Best Narrative Feature prize at this yearâs Slamdance Film Festival. The Programme will conclude with the Ugandan action thriller CRAZY WORLD about child-snatching mobsters who kidnap pint-sized Kung Fu masters. Every single film sounds absolutely bonkers, and we cannot wait to see them all!
UPDATE 8/13/19 ADDITIONAL GALAS AND SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS:
We are still a week out from the final schedule, but TIFF has added a handful of exciting titles to their already incredible slate of films coming this September.
Two films were added to the Gala Programme: the North American Premiere of THE BURNT ORANGE HERESY about a greedy art dealer and his crumbling plan around stealing a rare painting, starring Elizabeth Debicki, Donald Sutherland and Mick Jagger; and the Canadian Premiere of the hot air balloon epic THE AERONAUTS, reuniting The Theory of Everythingâs Eddie Redmayne and Felicity Jones. Hopefully we will get the opportunity to see it in its native IMAX format!
And some of the highlights of the 16 films added to the Special Presentations Programme include the World Premieres of Astronaut Thriller LUCY IN THE SKY, starring Natalie Portman, Dan Stevens and Jon Hamm; the film adaptation of AMERICAN SON, starring Kerry Washington in the role she originated on Broadway; Sci-Fi Video Game Thriller GUNS AKIMBO starring Daniel Radcliffe; Australian Romance DIRT MUSIC starring Kelly MacDonald and Garrett Hedlund; Family Drama HUMAN CAPITAL, starring Liev Schreiber, Marisa Tomei, Peter Sarsgaard and Stranger Things breakout Maya Hawke; as well as Boxing Drama JUNGLELAND, starring Charlie Hunnam and Jack OâConnell; and Benson and Moorheadâs genre-bending SYNCHRONIC, starring Anthony Mackie and Jamie Dornan. Other highlights include Jean Seberg Biopic SEBERG starring Kristen Stewart; Young Athlete Drama WAVES, starring Sterling K. Brown and Lucas Hedges; acclaimed Director Olivier Assayasâ latest WASP NETWORK starring Edgar Ramirez, Penelope Cruz and Gael Garcia Bernal; and Cult Director Quentin Dupieuxâs DEERSKIN, starring Oscar-winner Jean Dujardin, about a manâs strange relationship with a deerskin jacket.
UPDATE 8/20/19 SCHEDULE RELEASED AND IN-CONVERSATIONS ANNOUNCED:
Great news, the official TIFF ’19 schedule has been release. Visit here to start planning your Festival: https://tiff.net/films.
Also confirmed are some great In-Conversations with Michael B. Jordan & Jamie Foxx, Antonio Banderas, Allison Janney and Kerry Washington.
Public single tickets go on sale Monday, September 2, 2019, while several packages are on-sale now here.
Complete list of Films announced here.
(Photo/video credit: Pathe Films/Sony Pictures/Warner Bros./Universal Pictures)
Now in its 29th year, the 2019 INSIDE OUT LGBTQ FILM FESTIVAL is set to take place May 23 to June 2, 2019 in Toronto with a variety of Special Presentations, Galas, Short Films and Special Events to celebrate the LGBTQ Community on an international scale. The Festival is comprised this year of 27 Narrative, 13 Documentary Features and 94 Short Films spanning 11 days. INSIDE OUT ranks third behind TIFF and HOT DOCS as the biggest Film Festival in Toronto.
The Festival is flashier than ever this year with Elton John Biopic ROCKETMAN opening the Festival and Sundance price-topper LATE NIGHT, written by and starring Mindy Kaling closing things out. Netflix also will present eagerly-awaited Armistead Maupin’s TALES OF THE CITY. It was just announced yesterday that Netflix has agreed to a four-year partnership to support LGBTQ Filmmakers, starting with the Festival. YOU DON’T NOMI, which chronicles the rise of critically-panned SHOWGIRLS to its cult status also looks to delight fans, among options to be highlighted below.
OPENING NIGHT
ROCKETMAN, directed by Dexter Fletcher. (UK/ USA) – Rocketman is an epic musical fantasy about the incredible human story of Elton Johnâs breakthrough years. The film follows the fantastical journey of transformation from shy piano prodigy Reginald Dwight into international superstar Elton John. This inspirational story – set to Elton Johnâs most beloved songs and performed by star Taron Egerton – tells the universally relatable story of how a small-town boy became one of the most iconic figures in pop culture. Rocketman also stars Jamie Bell as Eltonâs longtime lyricist and writing partner Bernie Taupin, Richard Madden as Eltonâs first manager, John Reid, and Bryce Dallas Howard as Eltonâs mother Sheila Farebrother. With Bryce Dallas Howard, Richard Madden, Taron Egerton.
CLOSING NIGHT
LATE NIGHT, directed by Nisha Ganatra. (USA) – Canadian Premiere. Written by Mindy Kaling, directed by Nisha Ganatra (whose film Chutney Popcorn capped off Inside Out in 2000), and starring Emma Thompson, Late Night might seem too good to be true. When late-night talk show host, Katherine Newbury (Emma Thompson) is accused of being âa woman who hates women,â she hires her first and only female staff writer, Molly (Mindy Kaling).This lack of inclusion is only the tip of the iceberg for the show, which is also suffering from low ratings and an unsupportive network. Wanting to prove that she is more than just a diversity hire, Molly sets out to help Katherine and to save her show, one punchline at a time. Late Night tackles misogyny and white privilege, while taking a closer look at the complicated working life of women with and without power. With Emma Thompson, Mindy Kaling, John Lithgow.
CENTERPIECE GALA
ARMISTEAD MAUPINâS TALES OF THE CITY, directed by Alan Poul. (USA) – Canadian Premiere. Inspired by the books of Armistead Maupin, Netflixâs Original Series, Armistead Maupinâs Tales of the City, begins a new chapter of this beloved story. Mary Ann (Laura Linney) returns to present-day San Francisco to celebrate Annaâs 90th birthday, and is reunited with her daughter Shawna (Ellen Page) and ex-husband Brian (Paul Gross), twenty years after leaving them behind to pursue her career. Fleeing the midlife crisis that her picture-perfect Connecticut life created, Mary Ann is quickly drawn back into the orbit of Anna Madrigal (Olympia Dukakis) and the residents of 28 Barbary Lane. Spanning nine novels and multiple television series, Armistead Maupinâs Tales of the City for Netflix brings us back into the queer world of San Francisco where so much has changed. What has remained constant are Anna and her chosen family. The Centrepiece Gala will screen the first episode, followed by an onstage conversation with showrunner Lauren Morelli (Orange is the New Black), Murray Bartlett (Looking), and Paul Gross (Due South).
WOMENâS GALA
GOOD KISSER, directed by Wendy Jo Carlton. (USA) – International Premiere. Whatâs a girl to do when her girlfriend suggests a date with a very alluring stranger? This three-way fling is deliciously unveiled in Good Kisser, a new film by Wendy Jo Carlton (whose Jamie and Jessie are Not Together played at the Festival in 2012). Awkward Jenna reluctantly agrees to a threesome with her girlfriend Kate and a mysterious, sophisticated woman named Mia. Over the course of a sultry summer evening, sparks fly, games are played, promises are broken, and secrets are revealed. Nothing will ever be the same. Is Jenna in over her head? Will Jenna and Kateâs relationship survive the night? All bets are off when it comes to good kissers. Good Kisser lays bare a hot relationship in transitionâand you will never look at a Popsicle the same way again. With Julia Eringer, Rachel Paulson, Kari Alison Hodge.
SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS
SELL BY, directed by Mike Doyle. (USA) – World Premiere. Sell By proves that love is a dangerous game for a group of self-absorbed friends who are trying to navigate their own romances. Nobody said love was easy. Adam (Scott Evans) and Marklin (Augustus Prew) seem to have the world in the palm of their hands, but their love life could use improvement. Marklinâs rise as a social media influencer, and Adamâs struggle to switch from ghost painting to creating his own work, has caused a rift between them. As their five-year relationship grows colder, they must decide whether to go all in or explore other options. Meanwhile, Cammy (Michelle Buteau) is failing to find her way in the world of online dating, and Haley (Zoe Chao) has to fend off an almost-legal student whoâs hot for teacher. In this hilarious, heartfelt film, Sell By emphasizes that vanity, with all its problems, can also get in the way of love. With Scott Evans, Augustus Prew, Michelle Buteau, Zoe Chao.
YOU DONâT NOMI, directed by Jeffrey McHale. (USA) – International Premiere. You Don’t Nomi traces the redemption of director Paul Verhoevenâs film Showgirls, from notorious flop to cult classic. When it was first released in 1995, Showgirls was met by critics and audiences with near universal derision, which included thirteen record-breaking Razzie Awards nominations. You Donât Nomi brilliantly draws on archival footage and thoughtful commentary to chart the filmâs eventual rise to a more favourable notoriety. Leaving no stone unturned, we relive many memorable scenes from Showgirls, while digging deeper into the filmâs darker side. It will not surprise anyone that many of the people interviewed onscreen are gay, including well-known super fan, Peaches Christ. Is it a masterpiece or pure garbage? McHaleâs documentary answers the very important question: canât it be both?
PREMIERES
A DOG BARKING AT THE MOON, directed by Xiang Zi. (China/Spain) – Canadian Premiere. Unhappiness can become such a habit that we forget about its root cause. In her assured and lyrical debut feature, writer-director Xiang Zi introduces us to a family living with sorrow at its core, although the source of that sorrow may not be all that it seems. Ever since she was young, Huang Xiaoyu (Gaowa Siqin) has been cheering for her parentsâ divorce, particularly in light of evidence that her father might be gay. Arriving home from the United States to have her first child, Western husband at her side, Xiaoyu already seems demoralized. Her father is cheerful but absent, and her mother, played by veteran actress Renhua Na, is a bundle of nerves and disgruntlement. As the curtain pulls back, we can see that secrets (although her fatherâs were less well kept) run in the family. Revealing the story over various time periods, Xiang invites the viewer to act as a fly on the wall, enticing them to watch as astutely observed moments unfold in the history of a family who have barely been able to keep up appearances. Teddy Jury Award, 2019 Berlin International Film Festival
ADAM, directed by Rhys Ernst. (USA) – International Premiere. Adam, the much awaited first feature from director Rhys Ernst (Transparent), brings Ariel Schragâs unconventional boy-meets-girl novel to life, giving us a nuanced look at sexual identity in the early 2000s. Awkward high schooler Adam (Nicholas Alexander) does not have a way with women. When an opportunity arises to spend the summer in New York with his older sister Casey (Margaret Qualley), he seizes the chance to spread his wings, meet women and finally gain some experience. His plan is thwarted by the fact that Casey mostly attends L Word parties and marriage equality marches. When he tags along to a party with his sisterâs queer friends, he meets Gillian and, hoping she likes men, strikes up a conversation. When Gillian mistakes Adamâs gender identity, he canât quite bring himself to correct her error and the two grow closer. Before long, what began as a simple misunderstanding evolves into a complicated mix-up, proving how out of his depth Adam truly is. Ernst and Alexander carefully break down a complicated character and create an honest, engaging and raw coming-of-age story. Official Selection, 2019 Sundance Film Festival. With Nicholas Alexander, Margaret Qualley, MJ Rodriguez, ChloĂ« Levine.
BEFORE YOU KNOW IT, directed by Hannah Pearl Utt. (USA) – International Premiere. When Rachel Gurnerâs charming date walks her to her front door and asks if she has roommates, she quietly admits that she does. What she doesnât admit to is that she lives above a small theatre with her father Mel, her sister Jackie (played by hilarious co-writer Jen Tullock), and her preteen niece, Dodge. Itâs a real romance killer. The truth is Rachel has no time for relationships. She takes responsibility for almost every aspect of her familyâs lives, from housekeeping to managing their upcoming theatre show. When Mel suddenly passes away, everything they know is put in jeopardy. If this isnât enough, their fatherâs outdated will reveals that the mother they believed to be dead is, in fact, alive and is playing a lead role in a popular soap opera. Hannah Pearl Utt writes, directs, and stars in this family drama that gives us license to poke a little fun at lifeâs misfortunes. Official Selection, 2019 Sundance Film Festival. With Jen Tullock, Judith Light, Mike Colter.
BIT, directed by Brad Michael Elmore. (USA) – World Premiere. Desperate to get away from her small-town roots and find a like-minded community, Laurel hits the road for Los Angeles as soon as she graduates from high school. Sure, people in L.A. are different, but do these people seem extra different? Yes, they do, because they are vampires. On her first night out in the city, Laurel attends a warehouse party and befriends a mysterious group of punk feminist women, led by the intimidating Duke. Laurel is surprised to have met her people so quickly, but her luck turns when one of them feeds on her blood and leaves her for dead. Waking up and realizing she might have become a vampire, Laurel confronts the women who converted her and is given a choice: go back to a boring life or join an ultra-cool vampire squad. Could it possibly be that simple? Of course not. Starring trans actress Nicole Maines as Laurel, Bit is supernatural, super feminist, and super queer. Not to mention the most fun youâll have at the movies this year.
THE BLONDE ONE (UN RUBIO), directed by Marco Berger. (Argentina) – Canadian Premiere. Things grow hot and heavy between roommates Gabriel and Juan in this steamy, heartfelt film from acclaimed Argentinian director, Marco Berger (Plan B; Absent; Taekwondo). Gabriel is attracted to his roommate and co-worker, Juan. But what chance does Gabriel have, given the number of women streaming in and out of Juanâs bedroom? Overcoming his shyness, Gabriel takes a risk and makes the first move. To his surprise, he finds Juan eagerly responsive. But as their relationship intensifies, Juan wonders if he can give Gabriel what he wantsâto bring their relationship out into the open. Marco Berger sets the story in the charactersâ everyday lives, and shows subtle signals of attraction as well as the pervasive homophobia and machismo that impacts Gabriel and Juanâs deepening love.
FROM ZERO TO I LOVE YOU, directed by Doug Spearman. (USA) – In this entertaining romantic dramedy, commitment-phobic Pete (Darryl Stephens, Noahâs Arc) and married-with-children Jack unexpectedly fall for each other, and life becomes suddenly complicated. Pete, a gay man living in Philadelphia, has a history of involvement with married men. Enter Jack, with a wife and kids in the suburbs. When sparks fly, Pete must ask himself if he can handle yet another relationship with a married man, while Jack will have to decide if heâs ready to leave his wife. As Pete nears his decision, an opportunity arises that causes him to question whether he is better off with, or without, Jack. Featuring strong chemistry between the leads, director Doug Spearman (Hot Guys with Guns) creates authentic characters in this highly engaging, obstacle-filled romance.
THE GROUND BENEATH MY FEET (Der Boden unter den FĂŒĂen), directed by Marie Kreutzer. (Austria) – Canadian Premiere. The Ground Beneath My Feet is a masterful thriller that looks at the intersection of mental health and womanhood through the experiences of Lola (Valerie Pachner), an ambitious workaholic on the verge of a nervous breakdown. A ruthless and skilled consultant, Lola is on the brink of her dream promotion. Everything is put in jeopardy, however, when her sister, who lives with paranoid schizophrenia, attempts suicide. Forced to balance work and her sisterâs care while trying to hide family matters from co-workers, Lola is stretched beyond her limits. Exhausted and suspicious of everyone around her, including her boss and secret lover, Elise, Lola begins to lose her grip on reality. Marie Kreutzerâs nuanced portrait of Lola explores the very fine line between order and chaos, balance and instability.
KNIVES AND SKIN, directed by Jennifer Reeder. (USA) – Canadian Premiere. In Knives and Skin, Jennifer Reeder takes the classic American high school movie and turns it completely on its head, adding magical realism, pop-song choirs, and a feminist twist. At first glance, this rural Illinois high school seems like any other: popular football players and their cheerleader girlfriends, marching band nerds, the feminist loner, and the unassuming kid in the mascot costume. But when their peer Carolyn Harper goes missing, the students are forced to confront the cracks in the façade, along the way revealing their true selves and new, unexpected connections. The disappearance also exposes parentâs secrets and highlights the townâs overriding dysfunction. Part teen comedy, part musical and part thriller, Knives and Skin is the badass feminist high school movie we have all been waiting for. With Kate Arrington, Tim Hopper, James Vincent Meredith, Tony Fitzpatrick, Marika Engelhardt.
SAINT FRANCES, directed by Alex Thompson. (USA) – Occasionally things happen in life that make us feel as if the universe is enjoying a cruel joke at our expense. At the onset of a hot summer in Chicago, and having had no time to recover from or process a recent abortion, Bridget begins a job as nanny to stubborn six-year-old Frances. With Bridgetâs life in disarray and Frances struggling to adjust to the birth of a baby brother, the two begin to form a bond. But as Bridget moves more deeply into the world of Frances and her moms, her personal relationships suffer and she loses sight of life outside of her job. Featuring standout performances across the boardâmost notably from six-year-old Ramona Edith-WilliamsâSaint Frances is a film about family in all of its forms.
SECOND STAR ON THE RIGHT, directed by Ruth Caudeli. (Colombia) – Young at heart and lost in life, Emilia is far from having it all figured out. Sheâs unemployed, in a relationship she wonât commit to, and the odd one out in her friend group in almost every way possible. As an actor whose theatre work is high in concept but low in attendance, Emilia teaches acting classes while she awaits her big break. When she is unexpectedly fired, she is forced to take a job working for her best friend Angelica. As Emilia sinks more deeply into a comfortable life, she grows further away from herself. If this isnât enough to manage, she is also trying to figure out exactly what her relationship with Mariana is. Everything comes to a head at Angelicaâs bachelorette party, where a few too many drunken truths are revealed. With clear vision, director Ruth Caudeli spotlights the highs and lows of female friendship, and masterfully answers the question: does growing up have to mean giving up?
ICONS
A NIGHT AT SWITCH Nâ PLAY, directed by Cody Stickels. (USA) – World Premiere. Thereâs something very queer happening at a bar in Brooklyn, and in the new film A Night at Switch nâ Play you are invited to come and watch. Switch nâ Play is a queer performance collective that stages fabulous subversive drag and burlesque shows. The ensemble explodes traditional gender roles, pushing the limits of what drag and burlesque can be. But more than that, they area tight-knit family of outsiders who welcome queer audiences into their world and create a safe, tantalizing space where everyone can be themselves. The film introduces diverse members of the collective and sprinkles in a generous helping of delicious live performances. If you spend just one night with Switch nâ Play, youâll never want to leave.
CIRCUS OF BOOKS, directed by Rachel Mason. (USA) – Canadian Premiere. In 1976, Karen and Barry Mason fell on hard times and were looking for a way to support their three young children. An ad by Larry Flynt, who was seeking distributors for Hustler Magazine, became their unexpected saviour. The Masons soon found themselves owners of Circus of Books, a popular Los Angeles queer bookstore. Their establishment eventually became the biggest distributor of gay porn in the United States, which led to federal obscenity charges during the Reagan era. This fascinating documentary, directed by their daughter Rebecca Mason, looks at her parentsâ unlikely story: how they kept the details of their work from their children, the impact of the AIDS crisis, and how their involvement with the LGBT community didnât fully prepare them for having a gay son. Featured interviews include LGBT activist Alexei Romanoff, drag superstar Alaska (Justin Honard, a former employee), and porn legend Jeff Stryker.
GAY CHORUS DEEP SOUTH, directed by David Charles. (USA) – Canadian Premiere. The San Francisco Gay Menâs Chorus plan a tour of the Deep South in order to bring acceptance and love to many of those who live with discriminatory anti-LGBTQ+ laws. Led by conductor Tim Seely and joined by the Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir, the Chorus begin their journey, skeptical of potential audience reaction. They learn, however, that their performances are bringing people together. The Chorus uses the universal language of music to give queer communities in the Deep South a safe and welcoming environment in which to celebrate their identities and orientations. Gay Chorus Deep South shows us that it is not as important who you love, but that you are capable of love, aiming to go beyond mere tolerance to a place where everyone can feel accepted and celebrated for who they are. With Tim Seeling, Chris Verdugo, Jimmy White, Steve Huffines.
HALSTON, directed by FrĂ©dĂ©ric Tcheng. (USA) – Canadian Premiere. Before Marc Jacobs, Tom Ford and Calvin Klein, there was Halston, a suave young man from Des Moines, Iowa, who took Manhattan by storm and defined 1970s style, designing everything from Jackie Kennedyâs pillbox hat to Girl Scout and NYPD uniforms to a JC Penney clothing line. At the height of his career, when he wasnât throwing tantrums over imperfect seams and wrangling his out-of-control lover, Halston was travelling with a pack of models known as the Halstonettes, and spending drug-fueled nights at Studio 54 with Bianca Jagger, Liza Minelli and Andy Warhol. In this comprehensive look at the designerâs meteoric rise and humiliating fall, French-born director FrĂ©dĂ©ric Tcheng, who has made documentaries about Dior, Vreeland and Valentino, proves he knows his Ultrasuede from his hot pants. Mixing candid interviews with archival footage that evoke the man and his era, Halston captures the spirit of a genius. Also, a warning: donât believe your own hype.
SCREAM, QUEEN! MY NIGHTMARE ON ELM STREET (Special Sneak Preview), directed by Roman Chimienti, Tyler Jensen. (USA) – Actor Mark Patton is ready to scream. Thirty-four years after his first lead role in Nightmare on Elm Street 2: Freddyâs Revenge, the rising star experienced what became a real-life nightmare when the movie was dubbed, âThe gayest horror film ever made.â Unbeknownst to the closeted actor, whose budding career was smack-dab in the middle of Hollywoodâs AIDS-phobic â80s, his first big break turned out to be a gay panic film that earned him the title of first male scream queen. His career in ruins, Patton vanished from the spotlight. As it turned out, the true villain wasnât Freddy Krueger at all, but screenwriter David Chaskin, who denied that he wrote any gay subtext and who instead blamed the young actor. Documentary filmmakers Roman Chimienti and Tyler Jensen document Pattonâs pilgrimage as he attempts to make peace with this dark past, and confronts the entire film cast and Chaskin himself.
WE ARE THE RADICAL MONARCHS, directed by Linda Goldstein Knowlton. (USA) – Canadian Premiere. “A group of tween girls chant into megaphones holding clenched fists high and showcasing colourful badges sporting the words, âBlack Lives Matterâ and âRadical Beauty.â Meet the first troop of Radical Monarchs, a group of young girls of colour who are standing at the front lines of social justice. Set in Oakland, We Are the Radical Monarchs documents, over a three-year period, an alternative movement to the Girl Scouts. Its members earn badges for completing social justice units that incorporate being an LGBTQ ally environmental activism, and disability justice. The group, started by two queer women of colour, is anchored in the belief that girls of colour need dedicated spaces and a foundation that is rooted in fierce, interdependent sisterhood, self-love and hope. This dynamic film follows the first troop of Radical Monarchs and chronicles the co-foundersâ struggle to develop, expand and advance the organization and their mission to create and inspire a new generation of social justice activists.”
SPOTLIGHT ON CANADA – Supported by CBC
DRAG KIDS, directed by Megan Wennberg. (Canada) – Drag origin stories are overflowing with misfit kids who were bullied at school and at home because of their love of feminine clothes and cosmetics. But what if those kids were free to be themselves from an early age? Drag Kids introduces us to four fabulous youngsters who have been given that very opportunity. Stephen, Jason, Bracken, and Nemis, age nine to eleven, are already fierce drag queens. They come from different backgrounds but all share a love of fabulous frocks and glittery makeup. When the kids are brought together by their deeply loving, supportive parents, they bond over costumes, makeup and a love of drag. But do they have what it takes to perform and compete with adult queens? Drag Kids takes a joyous look at what can happen when parents support their childrenâs dreams of fabulousness.
DYKES IN THE STREETS, directed by Almerinda Travassos. (Canada) – World Premiere. Picture itâ1981, a summer day in Toronto, 300 lesbians carrying signs and balloons, marching down Yonge Street and loudly chanting, âWe are the D. Y. K. E. S!â The march that day was a triumph for pride and visibility. But how have things changed for queer women in Toronto since that protest? How has the movement changed? Who does it represent? And where is it going now? Almerinda Travassosâs new documentary, Dykes in the Streets, poses those questions to a variety of queer women in Toronto. Against a backdrop of remarkable archival footage of Pride from 1981, 1991, 1996 and 2016, the women talk about their experiences with queer activism in Toronto. As our LGBTQ2S+ communities grow and change, Dykes on the Streets raises many timely questions about what has been achieved and what still needs to be done. The screening will be followed by an extended Q&A.
QUEER COOLIE-TUDES, directed by Michelle Mohabeer. (Canada) – Toronto Premiere. In a reclaiming of the slur coolie, filmmaker Michelle Mohabeerâs creative essay documentary explores the experiences of queer Canadians from the Indo-Caribbean diaspora. Beginning with Mohabeerâs personal experience, the documentary moves through a series of interviews with people from a wide variety of backgrounds. Instead of succumbing to pressure to find a shared narrative or common ground, the documentary embraces the complexities of how factors such as gender, age and mobility inform identity in nuanced ways. A powerful collection of testimonies, the film traces the intergenerational lives, histories, familial relations and sexualities of its interview subjects. Speaking to the limits of identity and the violence of mainstream categorizations, Queer Coolie-tudes is a documentary that, using intimate testimonies and experimental visual exploration, illustrates the importance of not accepting erasure.
QUEERING THE SCRIPT, directed by Gabrielle Zilkha. (Canada) – World Premiere. âI learned about myself through this show. I saw myself in this character,â explains an enthusiastic fan in Queering the Script, a sparkling celebration of queer fangirls and the shows they love. Queerness on television has moved from subtext, in series such as Xena: Warrior Princess, to all-out multi season relationships between women, as seen on Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Lost Girl, and Carmilla. But things still arenât perfect. In 2016, a record number of queer women died on fictional shows, which broke the hearts of queer fans and launched a successful fight for better, more diverse LGTBQ2S+ representation. Stars such as Ilene Chaiken, Stephanie Beatriz, Lucy Lawless and Angelica Ross join with the voices of numerous kickass fangirls in this fast-paced history of queer womenâs representation of contemporary television. Queering the Script not only charts the evolution of queerness, but also demonstrates the extraordinary impact of activism on its many diverse fans, ensuring that they see themselves accurately portrayed onscreen.
INTERNATIONAL SHOWCASE
BEING IMPOSSIBLE (YO IMPOSSIBLE), directed by Patricia Ortega. (Venezuela/ Colombia) – International Premiere. Finding your identity is difficult at the best of times, but what if a critical piece of your history has been kept from you? When Ariel has sex with her boyfriend for the first time she experiences intense pain. Her mother gives her strict instructions to visit a very specific doctor but will tell her nothing else. To make matters more confusing, Ariel has developed a strong attraction to her new co-worker, Ana. Everything comes to a head when Ariel discovers that she was born intersex, which affords a new understanding of who she really is and the opportunity to explore what she really wants. Being Impossible provides a sensitive, non-sensational way of looking at the complexities of gender and sex. With Lucia Bedoya, Maria Elena Duque.
BILLIE AND EMMA, directed by Samantha Lee. (Philippines) – North American Premiere. Set in the â90s, Billie and Emma explores the turbulent nature of young love and the importance of having someone to laugh with through it all. After getting into trouble, Billie finds herself exiled to the rural plains to live with her aunt. She decides to keep a low profile, determined to make it through the last year of high school incident free and return to the city. And her plan almost works, until she meets star student Emma. Emma coaxes Billie out of her shell and their relationship soon becomes more than friendly, which throws a wrench into Billieâs plan to leave, and threatens to tarnish Emma’s star reputation. Things become even more complicated when Emma finds out that sheâs pregnant. Samantha Lee, a fierce advocate for greater representation of women and LGBTQ+ communities in cinema, delivers a heartwarming high school romance that is steeped in charm and expansive expression. With Gabby Padilla, Zar Donato.
BRIEF STORY FROM THE GREEN PLANET, directed by Santiago Loza. (Argentina/ Germany/ Brazil/ Spain) – Canadian Premiere. Winner of the Teddy Award at this yearâs Berlinale, A Brief Story from the Green Planet follows trans woman Tania on a strange and surprising odyssey. When Tania receives the news that her grandmother has passed away, she returns to her hometown with two friends to take care of her grandmotherâs estate. Tania realizes she has inherited more than she bargained for when she discovers a peculiar creature in the house. Her grandmotherâs dying request is that Tania return this friendly companion to the place where it first appeared, led only by the help of a mysterious map. When the road gets rough, the travelers must overcome their fears and work together to complete their mission. An odd premise breaks open to reveal a heartwarming tale about chosen family and the power that outsiders wield when they stick together. With Paula Grinszpan.
CATAMARAN, directed by Swarnavel Eswaran. (India) – Catamaran is a gripping drama told from the point of view of a stoic but loving fisherman who finds out his nieceâs true desires are not what he imagined. After a devastating tsunami shakes up Singaramâs family, he takes it upon himself to adopt his orphaned niece Anandhi and nephew Mani. Singaramâs simple plan is complicated by his nieceâs refusal to marry. His traditional perspective causes a rift in the family, forcing Anandhi to tell her uncle about her love for Kavita, a woman who teaches at a nearby school. Singaram works to come to terms with her confession while the rest of the village insists that he find her a proper suitor. Complemented by beautiful scenery, the budding lesbian romance is set as the backdrop for a film about a society that is constantly breaking its own rules despite its firm footing in heteronormativity.
CUBBY, directed by Mark Blane, Ben Mankoff. (USA) – International Premiere. Creator Mark Blane has a knack for sensitively handling material that others might avoid. His 2012 book and play, The Rock & The Ripe, attracted controversy because of its theme of queer teen suicide, and his feature film debut, Cubby, also refuses to look away from uncomfortable moments. When scruffy man-child artist Mark Nabel (played by Blane) arrives in Brooklyn to begin an art gallery job that heâs invented to fool his mother, heâs forced to take a job babysitting a six-year-old in order to pay the rent. As Mark develops his nurturing side, doing his best to protect his charge from bullies, he comes to terms with his sexual and romantic interests, particularly his encounters with Leather-Man (Christian Patrick of Interior. Leather Bar and Kink.com fame), a fantasy figure he meets in a neighbourhood park. With humour thatâs both gentle and acerbic, Cubby captures the difficulties, and the opportunities that come from being a complicated person in a complicated world. With Mark Blane, Lucy DeVito, Patricia Richardson, Pete Y. Kim.
FABIANA, directed by Brunna LaboissiĂšre. (Brazil) – Canadian Premiere. The life of a long-distance trucker isnât easy, and proves especially challenging for Fabiana, a 56-year-old trans woman who spends her life crisscrossing the highways of Brazil. In director Brunna LaboissiĂšre meditative documentary, we follow Fabiana during her final days on the job as she prepares to retire from the road. Perched behind the wheel, cigarette in hand, Fabiana is both engaging and mysterious, speaking openly about her various sexual conquests and relationships. But she is also emotionally wary, afraid to show her deep feelings and fears. We watch as Fabiana struggles to reveal her lesbian identity to a female friend, hiding the truth from her, and later we witness Fabianaâs tense relationship with her girlfriend, Priscilla. LaboissiĂšre is a compassionate filmmaker who is not afraid to ask the tough questions. In the end, we are left with a poignantly tender portrait of a woman who embraces life and who lives by her own rules. With Fabiana Camila Ferreira.
THE GARDEN LEFT BEHIND, directed by Flavio Alves. (USA) – The Garden Left Behind traces the relationship between Tina, a young Mexican trans woman, and Eliana, her grandmother, as they navigate Tinaâs transition, and strive to build a life for themselves as undocumented immigrants in New York City. As Tina begins the process of transitioning, Eliana struggles to understand Tina and fears that their life together in America is no longer what they bargained for. Tina finds camaraderie in a small but mighty transgender advocate group but, soon, also finds herself having to fight for the life that sheâs meant to liveâfacing violent threats, insurmountable medical costs, questions about her legal immigration status, and increasing skepticism from the man she loves. This film touches on the very real threat of violence against trans women of colour in America and does include a scene with graphic violence. For more information, please visit our website at www.insideout.ca. With Carlie Guevara, Michael Madsen, Edward Asner.
JACK & YAYA, directed by Jennifer Bagley, Mary Hewey. (USA) – Canadian Premiere. Growing up trans in a rural community can feel isolating and lonely. But Jack and Yaya, who grew up with neighbouring backyards, had each other every step of the way. Years later, despite living in separate States, they remain best friends. Jack, only a few years into his transition, struggles to decide whether to move forward with gender-affirming surgery, while Yaya tackles the bureaucratic nightmare of legally changing her name in New Jersey, an eighteen-step ordeal. Through Skype calls and visits, Jack and Yaya are behind each other for every setback and every milestone. Drawing on home videos and conversations with their eclectic cast of friends and family, Jack & Yaya proves that hardships and distance are no match for a friendship that seemed destined from the start.
JOSĂ, directed by Li Cheng. (Guatemala/USA) – Canadian Premiere. Chinese-American director Li Cheng lived in Central America for two years interviewing gay and marginal youth, and learning about Guatemalan culture and history, in preparation for his second feature film, JosĂ©. The film follows 19-year-old JosĂ©, who lives at home with his religious mother in hardscrabble Guatemala City. He manages to sneak off for the occasional motel hookup, but when he meets Luis, a construction worker from the Caribbean coast, JosĂ© is forced to make choices he would rather avoid making. Working in a gritty, realist style with an impressive cast of nonprofessional actors, JosĂ© captures the thrill of love and sex in an environment thatâs not conducive to either of them. The tender, loving care Cheng applied to the subject matter certainly paid off in this sweet and moving drama, which won the Queer Lion at last yearâs Venice International Film Festival.
MEMORIES OF MY BODY (KUCUMBU TUBUH INDAHKU), directed by Garin Nugroho. (Indonesia) – North American Premiere. Political and social upheaval in Central Java forces a closeted young dancer out into the world. There, he meets remarkable people as he struggles to come to terms with his emotional impulses and sexual identity. Orphaned at a young age, Juno is drawn to dancing and joins a Lengger dance group. Lengger is a traditional dance form from the island of Java, where dancers play with fluid gender identity. In four beautiful chapters we follow Juno through adolescence into adulthood, witnessing his blossoming talent while exploring the more graphic nature of the danceâs origins as well as the men that surround him. Part political commentary, part dance film, part coming-of-age story, everyone that crosses Junoâs path steps into his narrativeâhis 1980s dance guru; a chiseled prizefighter engaged to be married, and a closeted politician. Inspired by the life of famed dancer and choreographer Riantoâwho also narrates the filmâMemories of My Body sheds light on the buried trauma and complex life of an oppressed gay man.
PAPI CHULO, directed by John Butler. (Ireland) – In the midst of a California drought and his own personal heartache, weatherman Sean (Matt Bomer) takes a leave of absence following an extremely embarrassing televised breakdown. What is a workaholic to do with so much unexpected free time? Deciding to focus his energy on home improvement instead of self-care, Sean gets to work but soon realizes just how handy he isnât. On a whim he decides to enlist migrant worker Ernesto (Alejandro Patiño) to lend a helping hand and some vital expertise. When Sean realizes that Ernesto is also a great listener, Sean sees their time together as an opportunity to vent his problems, and the two become unlikely friends. Threatening their relationship is Seanâs unwillingness to deal with his life and, before he knows it, he has no choice but to face the truth. Sean, meet rock bottom. Papi Chulo blends comedy with social commentary and, in tender moments, shows how meaningful life can be when we take time to listen to others. With Matt Bomer, Alejandro Patino.
SOLACE, directed by Tchaiko Omawale. (USA) – Finding your own path when everyone around you wants you to be someone different can feel insurmountable. Solace examines these conflicting pressures and the toll they invariably take. When her father dies, Sole, a bright, politically engaged seventeen-year-old, is sent across the country to L.A. to live with her intensely religious and controlling grandmother (performed stunningly by Lynn Whitfield). Desperate to return to New York, Sole convinces her erratic neighbour and new friend, Jasmine, to join an art/activist group with the aim of winning a grant that will help Sole return home. But with Sole acutely drawn to Jasmineâs freedom and disorder, will all that chaos distract her from her endeavour? Solace is alive with heart-wrenching performancesâmost notably by lead, Hope Olaide Wilsonâin this authentic and complicated coming-of-age story. With Hope Olaide Wilson, Chelsea Tavares, Lynn Whitfield, Glynn Turman.
TRANSFINITE, directed by Neelu Bhuman. (USA) – World Premiere. “Tranfinite is a multicultural, queer, genre-busting, sci-fi, omnibus film showcasing trans people as they come into their power. Nine different shorts from a multicultural collective of writers from across the gender and sexuality spectrum open up an empowering space for trans people to dream. Their dreams are of love and loss, revenge for childhood bullies, the wonder of oneâs own language, a magical garden, earth and water protectors, important lessons from a trans elder, and a trans woman who possesses the power to change the world for the greater good. The shorts show trans people working together to create nurturing community spaces for working, loving, teaching, and, most important, for thriving. With outstanding performances and a lush score, Transfinite imagines a poetic space of infinite possibilities and tells unique stories about trans people by trans people themselves.” With Harmony Santana, Cooper Chow, Barnaby Falls, Liz Anderson.
VISION PORTRAITS, directed by Rodney Evans. (USA) – Canadian Premiere. What happens when visually impaired artists work in visual media? Vision Portraits introduces us to several artists who navigate that formidable challenge. Rodney Evans, director of queer classic, Brother to Brother, is slowly losing his vision and questioning what this will mean for his creative output. His soul-searching leads him to other artists (a photographer, a dancer and a writer) who are legally blind or visually impaired. Evans is eager to understand how they handle the constraints of creating work in traditionally visual media. What results is a quiet yet powerfully personal film where all four artists work through questions and answers about their identity, art, and vision. Vision Portraits introduces us to fascinating artists who confront their disability and create art imbued with a unique perspective on the world.
VITA & VIRGINIA, directed by Chanya Button. (Ireland/ UK) – Before film and TV screens featured queer womenâs lives, we read love letters written by notable heroines such as Vita Sackville-West and Virginia Woolf. In Vita & Virginia, filmmaker Chanya Button (2015 Inside Outâs Burn Burn Burn) brings writing to life, demonstrating how a relationship shaped two authorâs paths and inspired one of Woolfâs most famous works. Before they met, charismatic socialite Vita (Gemma Arterton) decided that the famously elusive Virginia (Elizabeth Debicki) would be her next conquest. When Vitaâs plan comes to fruition, the two forge an unconventional love affair that pushes social boundaries and tests the limits of their marriages. Virginia’s emotional struggles and Vita’s impulsiveness combine for a chaotic romance, which ultimately fuels Virginiaâs creativity and empowers her to channel Vitaâs persona into a novel, Orlando. Buttonâs modern take on this iconic relationship will satisfy longtime fans of Woolf and Sackville-West, while serving as a beautiful introduction to those who have yet to discover them.
ZEN IN THE ICE RIFT (Zen sul ghiaccio sottile), directed by Margherita Ferri. (Italy) – Canadian Premiere. Zen is a rowdy 16-year-old living in a small village on top of the Italian Apennines. Despite being a rising star on the local hockey team, they canât seem to connect with anyone. The only time Zen isnât alone is when being bullied at school or during hockey practice. In fact, they seem destined to make a high school career out of their loneliness, until Vanessa comes along. As the hockey team captainâs beautiful girlfriend, Vanessa seems to have it all, yet she shares Zenâs feelings of being misunderstood. But there just might be hope for them as they embark on what becomes an unexpected friendship. Ferriâs stylish and assured first feature follows two teenagers who are seeking the courage to explore their true selves. With Fabrizia Sacchi.
EPISODIC
ANNE+, directed by Valerie Bisscheroux. (Netherlands) – Canadian Premiere. When it comes to queer women and dating, we often recognize universal rites of passage: first love, the older woman, the closetedâor the wildâone. In this smart, sexy new web series from the Netherlands, Anne is looking back on her liaisons with various girlfriends, as she moves into a new apartment. Each episode features one of Anneâs past relationships, from its swoony beginnings to the depressing, frustrating, or inevitable end. Along the way, Anne learns a great deal about herself and what she wants. This series takes an honest, funny look at what it means to be young and in love. And as Anne works her way through her past romances, you just might recognize some of your own ex-girlfriends. All six episodes of Anne+ will be screened in this program. With Hanna van Vliet, Eline van Gils, Sharai Rodrigues, Djamila Landbrug, Kirsten Mulder.
CAMP CHAOS, directed by Cory Krueckeberg. (USA) – World Premiere. A series that opens with a sex act while a voiceover provides a poetically erotic monologue can lead to some assumptions, but Camp Chaos is just as much a self-empowering makeover show as it is a raunchy fantasy. As the first episode unfolds, we learn that real-life social media hottie Matthew Camp is setting out to recreate some of his sultriest sexual memories. We watch him video chat with a series of guys about their sexual desires until one shows up in real life to help Camp with his project. And then thereâs the reveal: a hardcore staging of the memory weâve been hearing about throughout the episode. Sizzling stuff that treats sexuality both seriously and playfully. Matthew Camp and show creator Cory Krueckeberg are returning to Inside Out with a vengeance, having previously screened Getting Go, the Go Doc Project, which won the Special Jury Award in 2013. The first episode of Camp Chaos will screen in this program.
EASTSIDERS: SEASON 4, directed by Kit Williamson. (USA) – World Premiere. With the interconnecting plots of a soap opera, but ripe with dark, queer humour and just the right amount of gratuitous sex, the web turned Netflix series EastSiders is back for a fourth and final season. Created, written, directed by and starring Kit Williamson, who has appeared on Mad Men and The Good Wife, EastSiders also features Williamsonâs real-life partner, John Halbach, as part of a strong ensemble cast. In its final season, Williamsonâs character Cal and boyfriend Thom (played by As the World Turnsâs adorable Van Hansis) have journeyed far beyond the anxieties about monogamy that launched the series. EastSiders delivers not only laughs and intrigue, but also offers wry observations on modern queer life, particularly among the denizens of Los Angelesâ trendy Silver Lake neighbourhood. The first two episodes of Season Four will screen in this program, followed by a panel. With Kit Williamson, Van Hansis.
THE FILTH, directed by Jamie Holt. (USA) – World Premiere. Life is messy and mettlesome for two muddle-headed best friends who are trying to make a go of life and love in L.A., in Jamie Holtâs hilarious half-hour comedy series, The Filth. Stella, a bisexual plumber who moonlights as a go-go dancer, is perpetually anxious and commitment-phobic. Max, an aspiring actor whose career has stalled, needs constant affirmation and is crazy in love with his allegedly straight roommate, Danny. Stella and Max bond when they realize how much of their lives seem to be mired in filth. But things begin to look up when Stella meets super cute fellow go-go dancer, Jocelyn. And Danny seems to be getting ready to finally leave the closet behind. Are things about to change for Max and Stella, or will they both find ways to sabotage their own happiness? Recalling tragicomic series such as Please Like Me, The Filth is a wickedly funny tribute to the chaos of modern life. All five episodes of Season One will screen in this program. With Christopher Cullen.
RAZOR TONGUE, directed by Rain Valdez. (USA) – World Premiere. A razor-sharp tongue is a great asset, but what happens when the people you cut are those closest to you? Razor Tongue deftly navigates the calling outâand the being called out. Whether sitting through a floundering Tinder date or a terrible job interview Belle calls out microaggressions and bad behaviour from men whenever she sees it. But when someone turns the tables on her in public, she begins to wonder about how effective public shaming actually is. There has been ample talk recently about the call-out culture, especially in LGBTQ2S+ communities, and Razor Tongueâanew web series from Rain Valdez of Transparentâcuts to the heart of the issue. All seven episodes of Razor Tongue will screen in this program. With Rain Valdez, Sterling Jones, Alexandra Grey, Carmen Scott.
VIDA: SEASON TWO PREVIEW & CONVERSATION, directed by Catalina Aguilar Mastretta. (USA) – Winner of the 2019 GLAAD Media Award for Best Comedy Series, the groundbreaking Vida is returning for an action-packed second season. Developed by showrunner Tanya Sarachoand an all-Latinx writersâ room, Vida burst onto the digital small screen in 2018 to critical acclaimâin particular from Latinx critics, praising its authenticityâand introduced us to a diverse, captivating and super queer cast of characters living and loving in the rapidly gentrifying world of East Los Angeles. Vida centres on sisters Emma and Lyn (Mishel Prada and Melissa Barrera),who return to their Eastside neighbourhood following their motherâs death, only to learn that their mother kept many secretsâincluding the fact that she had a live-in partner, Eddy (rising non-binary star, Ser Anzoatugui). In partnership with Starz, Inside Out is proud to present the first two episodes of Season 2, followed by an onstage conversation with guests that include Mishel Prada and Ser Anzoatugui. Word to the wise: Binge on Season 1 on Starz NOW!
MIXED EPISODIC
We are living in the Golden Age of television and digital series, and this program brings a selection of queer and trans episodes to the cinema screen.
FEMME QUEEN CHRONICLES, directed by Ahya Simone Taylor. (USA). Chanel and her friends Eryka, Amirah, and Shevon all are just trying to make it through the day without getting clocked as trans womenâor clocking someone else over the head.
IâM FINE, directed by Andrew Ceperley. (Canada). Jeff brings Zachary to meet his mom who is recovering after a health scare. While there, Zachary unearths some hidden insecurities that even Jeff isnât ready to face.
MIGUEL, directed by Daphna Levin, Tom Salama. (Israel). Miguel is a heart-wrenching true story of a gay manâs determination to fulfill his dream of adopting a child.
THESE THEMS, directed by Jett Garrison. (USA). These Thems, a comedic digital series, follows four queer characters: a newly out lesbian and her gay best friend, a trans man whoâs still in the closet at work, and a nonbinary educator.
Hashtag: #InsideOut19
Twitter: @InsideOutTO
Instagram: @insideoutfestival
Facebook: facebook.com/InsideOutFilmFestival
More on the Festival and tickets here.
(Photo credit: Inside Out)
Busy, busy! Toronto continues to be bustling with starpower as several stars continue their latest projects and some approach a wrap!
LET IT SNOW
Kiernan Shipka (The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina, Mad Men) had some fun at the Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards this weekend, enjoying a break from the cold! She even got slimed, but she assures us it was easy to wash off! She returns to complete work on Netflix‘s LET IT SNOW. She is the sweetest!
Model and Actor Matthew Noszka (Star) made his way back to the City along with Shipka too to complete work on the Holiday Feature! He equally was in great spirits too!
We spotted Isabela Moner, who stars as Dora in upcoming DORA AND THE LOST CITY OF GOLD returning also from the Kids’ Choice Awards with her dog Pluto. As always she’s the sweetest. Her dog is so social and friendly, always curious when he sees other playmates! We’re curious about new Music from Moner which she has been at work on in Miami, as we love what we’ve heard on Spotify so far.
And Anna Akana got lots of acclaim for her upcoming Film GO BACK TO CHINA at SXSW, the Singer and Actress also was spotted getting ready to wrap on LET IT SNOW!
SPINNING OUT
Netflix‘s Figure Skating Series SPINNING OUT also continues to film and we’re totally waiting for recent cast addition, the delightfully-funny Jonathan Van Ness of Queer Eye, who was added recently!
We are thrilled to have spotted Sarah Wright (The House Bunny, Mad Men) around with her baby and nanny! She was everything I thought she would be! Sweetheart.
GLAMOROUS
Coincidentally, Glamorous singer Fergie was just in town too last week! We spotted the stunning Eva Longoria hard at work after working through the weekend on her directorial debut, GLAMOROUS. The CW Pilot stars Ben Pierce as a gender non-conforming teen who lands a job with a cosmetic company after panning their products on the Internet. Longoria was amazing as we remember her, and she expressed excitement seeing someone bring a still to sign from upcoming Dora The Explorer, in which she stars. The Film’s star Isabela Moner just was in the City filming LET IT SNOW also!
(Photo credit: Mr. Will Wong)
By Amanda Gilmore, David Baldwin + Mr. Will Wong
Running Thursday, September 6, 2018 through Sunday, September 16, 2018, the 2018 Toronto International Film Festival is just around the corner. Bringing together Film lovers from all around the world, TIFF is once again set to draw some major talent to our City and Films and their connections get a leg-up on the Awards Season trail. Year after year, the Festival has been a powerful predictor of power-players at the Oscars and this year is no different. In light of recent tragic events in Toronto, a Press Conference was decided against this year with a press release announcing this year’s first round of Films. And just like us, we know you’ll be thrilled at some of the Films to grace the screens this September in the City!
17 Galas and 30 Special Presentations were announced including 21 World Premieres and TIFF always delivers! We’re thrilled that among the hotly-buzzed Films we’ve been longing to see, A STAR IS BORN (Lady Gaga, Bradley Cooper), BEAUTIFUL BOY (TimothĂ©e Chalamet, Steve Carell), LIFE ITSELF (Olivia Wilde, Oscar Isaac), FIRST MAN (Ryan Gosling, Claire Foy), WILDLIFE (Jake Gyllenhaal, Carey Mulligan) and THE HATE U GIVE (Amandla Stenberg).
See some Trailers:
Fans can expect this to be a big year with acclaimed Filmmakers like Alfonso Cuarón (Gravity), Steve McQueen (12 Years a Slave), Barry Jenkins (Moonlight) and Damien Chazelle (La La Land) all returning with eagerly-awaited followups. Jake Gyllenhaal also will have a high profile at the Festival with two eagerly-awaited Films in WILDLIFE and THE SISTERS BROTHERS. The same applies to Dev Patel who should be here for HOTEL MUMBAI and THE WEDDING GUEST.
Diversity, inclusion and gender equity continue to be a focus for the Festival. TIFF‘s mission to “share her journey” by giving a voice to females who are underrepresented as a whole in the filmmaking community in-front and behind the camera is more pronounced than ever. 13 of this year’s Features in fact are made by women. Learn more about TIFF’s five-year initiative here.
Some highlights from today’s TIFF ’18 announcements:
GALAS
Hotly-anticipated Galas at TIFF ’18 are highlighted by BEAUTIFUL BOY starring Steve Carell and TimothĂ©e Chalamet; and WIDOWS, Oscar-winner Steve McQueenâs follow-up to 12 Years A Slave starring Viola Davis, Daniel Kaluuya, Liam Neeson, Jacki Weaver, Colin Farrell and Michelle Rodriguez. The Film is written by Gone Girlâs Gillian Flynn and is sure to be one of the biggest Films of the Festival.
Other World Premieres announced today are HIGH LIFE, the Sci-Fi Drama and English-language debut of legendary French Director Claire Denis starring Robert Pattinson, Juliette Binoche and Mia Goth; HUSBAND MATERIAL from prolific Indian Director Anurag Kashyap; the latest from Nicole Holofcener, THE LAND OF STEADY HABITS, starring Ben Mendelsohn and Edie Falco; the multi-generational Drama LIFE ITSELF, from This is Us Creator Dan Fogelman, starring Oscar Isaac, Olivia Wilde, Annette Bening and Antonio Banderas; THE PUBLIC, from Emilio Estevez, starring Alec Baldwin, Jeffrey Wright, Gabrielle Union and Michael K. Williams; the Period Drama RED JOAN, starring Judi Dench; as well as Director George Tillman Jr.âs highly-anticipated Adaptation of THE HATE U GIVE starring Amandla Stenberg.
But thatâs not all. Other hotly-anticipated Films announced today that have already or will be premiering at other festivals include Oscar-winner and TIFF darling Damien Chazelleâs FIRST MAN starring Ryan Gosling and Claire Foy; Bradley Cooperâs directorial debut A STAR IS BORN starring Lady Gaga; Sundance hits THE KINDERGARTEN TEACHER starring Maggie Gyllenhaal and Elizabeth Chomkoâs WHAT THEY HAD starring Hilary Swank, Blythe Danner and Michael Shannon; Zhang Yimouâs Chinese epic SHADOW; and GALVESTON, the English feature directorial debut of Actress MĂ©lanie Laurent, starring Ben Foster and Elle Fanning.
We are waiting with baited breath on news of this year’s Opening and Closing Night Galas.
SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS
Some of the Films in the Special Presentations Programme with the most buzz this year include IF BEALE STREET COULD TALK by Director Barry Jenkins and ROMA by Director Alfonso Cuarón.
TIFF ’18Â will be showing a lot of due love for Canadian Filmmakers. The opening night Special Presentation goes to MOUTHPIECE Directed by Patricia Rozema, who was here a three years ago with her Film Into The Forest. Jason Reitman will be back again with THE FRONT RUNNER, starring Hugh Jackman. We will also be getting the latest work from Canadian Directors Kim Nguyen, with THE HUMMINGBIRD PROJECT, and Don McKellar, with the Adaptation to the beloved Canadian Novel Through Black Spruce.
Female empowerment is front and center at TIFF ’18. One of the biggest Films to showcase this at the Festival is Colette staring Keira Knightley. The Film is about a woman who agreed to become a Ghostwriter for her husband. After the Novel received much success, she fights for creative ownership while overcoming the societal constraints of early 20th century. There are also many Films directed by females within the Special Presentations Programme.
CANADIAN PROGRAMME (Updated: 8/1/18 4:00 PM)
Canadian World Premieres announced today include environmental conservation documentary ANTHROPOCENE from Directors Jennifer Baichwal, Nicholas de Pencier and Edward Burtynsky; Miranda de Pencierâs THE GRIZZLIES, a true story about Inuit youth; Barry Avrichâs Documentary PROSECUTING EVIL: THE EXTRAORDINARY WORLD OF BEN FERENCZ, chronicling the life of the last surviving Nuremberg Trial prosecutor; Akash Shermanâs Sci-Fi Drama CLARA starring Suitsâ Patrick J. Adams; Jasmin Mozaffariâs FIRECRACKERS, about two young women and their attempt to leave the misogyny in their small town behind; Zach Lipovsky and Adam Steinâs psychological Sci-Fi thriller FREAKS starring Emile Hirsch; Gwaai Edenshaw and Helen Haig-Brownâs EDGE OF THE KNIFE, the first feature-length film made in the endangered Haida language; Darlene Naponseâs FALLS AROUND HER, starring Tantoo Cardinal as a world-famous Anishinaabe musician; Maxime Girouxâs absurdist allegory THE GREAT DARKENED DAYS; and RenĂ©e Beaulieuâs Drama LES SALOPES OR THE NATURALLY WANTON PLEASURE OF SKIN, about a wife and mother facing the consequences of her secret life.
Of the 19 feature-length titles announced today, nearly 50% are directed by women.
TIFF will additionally host the Toronto premiere of THE FALL OF THE AMERICAN EMPIRE, directed by Oscar-winning Canadian Director Denys Arcand, and the Special Event World Premiere of SHARKWATER EXTINCTION, the final Documentary made by Rob Stewart. The late intrepid Filmmaker and Documentarian passed away early last year during filming.
See the Trailer for Sharkwater Extinction:
TIFF also announced their Rising Stars for 2018 today. Those selected stars are Devery Jacobs (KahnawĂ :ke Mohawk born Actor and Filmmaker), Lamar Johnson (Gala World Premiere THE HATE U GIVE), Michaela Kurimsky (World Premiere FIRECRACKERS) and Jess Salgueiro (World Premiere and Special Presentationsâ Opening Night Film MOUTHPIECE).
And in a surprise announcement at this afternoon’s Press Conference, Writer/Director Xavier Dolan‘s (currently in Toronto filming IT: CHAPTER TWO) highly-anticipated THE DEATH AND LIFE OF JOHN F. DONOVAN was announced as a World Premiere in the Special Presentations Programme. The long awaited Film stars Kit Harington, Natalie Portman, Jacob Tremblay, Thandie Newton, Sarah Gadon and Bella Thorne and is destined to be one of the hottest tickets at this year’s Festival.
Still no word on the Opening or Closing Night films, but some over-eager film fans may have gotten a taste of whatâs to come later this month. And if the rumours are to be believed, we are in for some very exciting announcements over the next few weeks!
PLATFORM PROGRAMME (Updated: 8/8/18 11:45 AM)
The Platform Programme quite literally its namesake, a platform for Directors who are unique, bold and unafraid to tackle any subject matter. In previous years, films such as Moonlight and Sweet Country were a part of the Programme and even won the coveted Platform prize, which is worth $25,000 CAD. This yearâs Programme shows no signs of slowing down and is gifting us with some risk-taking films..
Out of the 12 Films that were announce, four are directed or co-directed by women, while seven feature powerful female leading roles. Two Films featuring strong female leads that already have people talking are Destroyer and Her Smell. Destroyer is directed by Karyn Kusama and stars Nicole Kidman as a Los Angeles police detective who is forced to face her personal demons. Her Smell is the newest Film from Director Alex Ross Perry (Listen Up Philip)Â and stars Elisabeth Moss as a talented but self-destructive musician.
Out of the 12 Films there are 10 having their World Premiere at this year’s Festival, which includes the opening and closing night Platform films. The Opening Night Platform selection is Donnybrook which is the fourth-feature Film for Writer-Director Tim Sutton (Dark Night). It stars Jamie Bell and Frank Grillo as two men who are determined to compete in a bare-knuckle brawl with a cash prize. The Closing Night selection is Jessica Forever which is the Feature debut for Co-Directors Caroline Poggi and Jonathan Vinel. The Film takes place in a dystopian world where violent misfits reign supreme, but one woman and her family are fighting for peace.
DOCUMENTARIES (Updated: 8/9/18 1:30 PM)
This year TIFF is bringing 27 feature Documentaries from 19 different countries to Toronto audiences. Out of all those films, one-third of them are directed or co-directed by women. There are a few documentaries that examine the topic of women creators and the #MeToo movement. Some of the Documentaries on those topics are: the World Premiere of Alexis Bloomâs Divide and Conquer: The Story of Roger Ailes, which documents the Fox News Creator who was ousted for allegations of sexual harassment; the World Premiere of Tom Donahueâs This Changes Everything which is an examination of gender dynamics in Hollywood and is executive produced by Geena Davis; and Mark Cousinsâ Women Make Film: A New Road Movie Through Cinema which explores international cinema through the lens of women directors.
Politics is another topic getting a lot of attention in the TIFF Docs Programme. To name a few there is Vitaly Manskyâs Putinâs Witnesses, which focuses on the Russian President, and Errol Morrisâ American Dharma, which looks at Trumpâs previous strategist Steve Bannon. However, TIFF has decided to start the TIFF Docs Programme off with a bang with the World Premiere of Michael Mooreâs newest Doc Fahrenheit 11/9, which is a radical and humorous look at the United States under the Trump administration.
And for those who enjoy a doc about artists you love there are some for you to check-out. The first is the World Premiere of Quincy which is co-directed by Quincy Jonesâs daughter Rashida Jones and Allan Hicks. It follows the labours and legacies of the legendary Music Producer. Then there is the TIFF Docs Closing Night Film, Searching for Ingmar Bergman which is Directed by Margareth von Trotta and follows the groundbreaking Director and his impact on filmmaking.
MIDNIGHT MADNESS (Updated: 8/9/18 1:30 PM)
TIFF unleashed their Midnight Madness line-up today and it looks to be one of their strongest in years. THE PREDATOR, Writer/Director Shane Blackâs star-studded reinvention of the legendary Series, will act as the Programmeâs World Premiere Opening Night Film. The highly-anticipated HALLOWEENÂ Sequel, starring ‘Scream Queen’Â Jamie Lee Curtis and written by Danny McBride, David Gordon Green and Jeff Fradley, will also see its World Premiere at TIFF â18. Other World Premieres include Peter Stricklandâs IN FABRIC, telling the tale of a cursed dress and the poor souls who come into contact with it; Kiah Roache-Turnerâs Social Media-infused Horror film NEKROTRONIC starring Monica Bellucci; Henry Dunhamâs all too relevant thriller THE STANDOFF AT SPARROW CREEK, regarding a neighbourhood militiaâs involvement in a mass shooting; Emma Tammiâs horror on the American frontier THE WIND and Vasan Balaâs Bollywood Action-Thriller THE MAN WHO FEELS NO PAIN (the first Indian film at Midnight Madness!). Sundance hits ASSASSINATION NATION and CLIMAX, as well as Cannes favourite and Closing Night selection DIAMANTINO, will also be screening during the Programme.
GALAS, SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS + MASTERS PROGRAMME (Updated 8/14/18 3:00 PM)
Within one week, TIFF added a whopping 115 films to its slate today, including the announcements of the Opening and Closing Night Films.
David Mackenzieâs OUTLAW KING will open the Festival on Thursday, September 6. The Period Drama about the rise of 14th century Scottish hero Robert the Bruce stars Chris Pine, Aaron Taylor-Johnson and Lady MacBethâs Florence Pugh. The Film hails from Netflix, which alongside numerous other titles appearing at the Festival, suggests a very sharp divide between this Festival and the illustrious Cannes Film Festival, which banned such titles from competition this past May. TIFFâs Closing Night Film is JEREMIAH TERMINATOR LEROY, a true story about the enigmatic literary artist. It stars Laura Dern and Kristen Stewart. Plan your red carpet campouts accordingly.
Additional World Premiere Galas announced today include Peter Farrellyâs first Drama, GREEN BOOK, starring Viggo Mortensen and Mahershala Ali; as well as Thriller THE LIE, from Toronto-born Writer/Director Veena Sud, starring Peter Sarsgaard, Mireille Enos and Joey King. Some of the World Premieres announced as Special Presentations include Jonah Hillâs directorial debut MID90S; Sam Taylor-Johnsonâs adaptation of A MILLION LITTLE PIECES starring Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Billy Bob Thornton and Charlie Hunnam; Jeremy Saulnierâs Thriller HOLD THE DARK starring Alexander SkarsgĂ„rd, Riley Keough and Jeffrey Wright; Max Minghellaâs directorial debut TEEN SPIRIT starring Elle Fanning and Rebecca Hall; Annabel Jankelâs postwar-Drama TELL IT TO THE BEES starring Anna Paquin and Holliday Grainger; and Chanya Buttonâs VITA & VIRGINIA starring Gemma Arterton and Elizabeth Debicki as Vita Sackville-West and Virginia Woolf. Other highlights include Paul Greengrassâ 22 JULY, the true story about the aftermath of Norwayâs deadliest terrorist attack; Nick Hammâs DRIVEN, the star-studded true life tale about the rise and fall of John Delorean; and the International Premiere of Joel Edgertonâs highly-anticipated BOY ERASED starring Nicole Kidman, Russell Crowe and Lucas Hedges.
And in the Masters section, TIFF announced 11 films including Jafar Panahiâs 3 FACES; Hong Sang-sooâs HOTEL BY THE RIVER, Paolo Sorrentinoâs LORO; Mike Leighâs PETERLOO; Jean-Luc Godardâs THE IMAGE BOOK and the North American Premiere of Jia Zhang-keâs Thriller ASH IS PUREST WHITE.
ADDITIONAL SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS (Updated 8/21/18 10:00 AM)
A couple high-profile additions to the TIFF ’18 line-up have been announced including VOX LUX from Director Brady Corbett and starring Natalie Portman as a woman overcoming a tragic childhood to a life of fame and fortune. GRETA from Director Neil Jordan is about a young woman Frances (ChloĂ« Grace Moretz) and her unlikely friendship with Greta (Isabelle Huppert).
TIFF’ 18 hot on the heels of CRAZY RICH ASIANS’ success, will pay tribute to the 25th anniversary of THE JOY LUCK CLUB with some of the original Cast in attendance including Kieu Chinh and Tamlyn Tomita, plus a chat moderated by Lainey Lui.
THE OFFICIAL TIFF ’18 SCHEDULE NOW IS UP HERE!
_____________________________
We’re thrilled also to announce that David Baldwin (@davemabaldwin), Amanda Gilmore (@gilmoreamanda) and Mr. Will for the first time ever, are doing TIFF as accredited journalists. Our Team members SiobhĂĄn Rich (@typo_eh), George Kozera (@partyg) and Justin Waldman (@dubsreviews) also will be contributing as we screen some titles in advance of the Festival as in previous years. We look forward to teaming-up together to bring you a fresh, balanced perspective highlighting the massive starpower and quality of Cinema the Festival has to offer.
 More Film announcements to come soon.
Guest announcements usually come late August, so let’s start speculating, shall we?
Will we see Julia Roberts here for BEN IS BACK? Robert Redford for THE OLD MAN & THE GUN? Or how about Matthew McConaughey for WHITE BOY RICK?
TIFF ’18 Packages are on-sale now till August 13, 2018. The Schedule goes live August 21, 2018 and single public tickets are on-sale on September 3, 2018 for non-package buyers.
More info here.
(Photo credit: TIFF)
Review by Justin Waldman for Mr. Will Wong
While quiet of late, Canadian-born Writer/Director Jason Reitman delivers on all fronts another notch in his already very prolific catalog with Tully. The Movie is truly eye-opening for those whom have never experienced hands-on motherhood, and something to relate on a deep level if they have.
Tully focuses on Marlo (Charlize Theron) as she and her husband Drew (Ron Livingston) are about to welcome their third child into the world. Their first two kids have proven to be quite the handful. Marloâs brother Craig (Mark Duplass) suggests that Drew and Marlo hire a ânight nannyâ. Enter Tully (Mackenzie Davis) whose job is to make their lives a little less hectic. The purpose of a night nanny is to come in at night, make sure the baby sleeps, make sure the mother is at ease, rests and only is awoken to feed the baby. Marlo and Tully connect with one another on an emotional and spiritual level that makes the Film magical.
Tully not only is a perfect vehicle to showcase some fine work by Canadian Actress Mackenzie Davis and Academy Award winner Charlize Theron, itâs also a timely love letter to mothers. If this were released later in the year, there no doubt would be talks of awards consideration and rightfully so. Duplass and Livingston also give terrific performances as the brother who is trying to do right by his sister, and the father/husband who just doesnât seem to ever catch-on.
Tully delivers on emotion, challenges parents, and makes single people question whether or not they want children. The Movie is remarkable, breathtaking, and a welcomed returm to form for Reitman. Tully is not to be missed and not soon to be forgotten.
Universal Pictures Canada release TULLY in theatres on Friday, May 4, 2018.
2016 certainly was one for the books. I admit feeling terribly guilty every time someone claimed how horrible the year was when I secretly felt otherwise! Whether it be the amazing Films I saw, singling-out LA LA LAND, which I will say is the one of the finest to be released in the past decade, or songs on the radio – we love a return to strong melancholy melodies –  the year gave us many memories to hold on to. And to think we used to scoff at Justin Bieber, Ariana Grande, Bruno Mars and The Weeknd … now they’re on repeat on our Spotify account.
If there was a big name in town, we were there and this will be defined as the year we met our faves Gwyneth Paltrow, James Corden, Anne Hathaway, Taraji P. Henson, Rooney Mara and Emma Stone. We admit, we’re a bit mortified we’ll run out of heroes to meet!
And let’s not forget my love of horses. My travels to New York and California brought me together with icons like California Chrome, Beholder, Lady Eli and star of tomorrow, Classic Empire – the early favourite for May’s Kentucky Derby. My favourite horsey moment though? Meeting “Princess” aka A Pic by MrWill, my own namesake, for the first time back in February! I will miss her as she enjoys the sun and sand in Florida this winter, but look forward to her being a tough machine in the spring after her winter training.
Join me on a walk down memory lane one more time! Â And check back this weekend as we check-in with Team Mr. Will including Justin Waldman, Jon Godfrey, Dave Baldwin, SiobhĂĄn Rich, Amanda Gilmore + George Kozera as they give us their Best-Ofs!
TOP TEN FILMS
TOP SONGS
CELEBRITY
Elizabeth Banks
J.J. Abrams
ÂWith #StarWars #TheForceAwakens’ #JJAbrams, last night in #LosAngeles.
A photo posted by Mr. Will Wong (@mrwillwong) on
James Corden
Steven Spielberg
ÂI touched #StevenSpielberg. That’s gotta count for something! #LosAngeles #LA
A photo posted by Mr. Will Wong (@mrwillwong) on
Rebecca Hall
Â
Taryn Manning
ÂWith my love #TarynManning. She was so sweet!! Have waited since the early 2000s for this!
A photo posted by Mr. Will Wong (@mrwillwong) on
Alessia Cara
ÂA photo posted by Mr. Will Wong (@mrwillwong) on
Alex Trebek
ÂA photo posted by Mr. Will Wong (@mrwillwong) on
Victoria Justice
ÂA photo posted by Mr. Will Wong (@mrwillwong) on
Kevin Hart
ÂA photo posted by Mr. Will Wong (@mrwillwong) on
Emma Stone
ÂWith the mesmerizing #EmmaStone at #TIFF16 for #LaLaLand.
A photo posted by Mr. Will Wong (@mrwillwong) on
Ryan Gosling
#RyanGosling at #TIFF16 for #LaLaLand.
A photo posted by Mr. Will Wong (@mrwillwong) on
Damien Chazelle
ÂBrilliant director/writer #DamienChazelle at #TIFF16 for #LaLaLand.
A photo posted by Mr. Will Wong (@mrwillwong) on
Anne Hathaway
Gwyneth Paltrow
ÂSo this happened. #GwynethPaltrow #HoltRenfrew #juiceBEAUTY
A photo posted by Mr. Will Wong (@mrwillwong) on
Jessica Chastain
ÂThe best. #JessicaChastain #IndependentSpiritAwards #Oscars #AcademyAwards
A photo posted by Mr. Will Wong (@mrwillwong) on
My fave, #JessicaChastain – the nicest celeb of all time. #MetGala #MetBall
A photo posted by Mr. Will Wong (@mrwillwong) on
Rooney Mara
Verklempt that I met my #1!! #AcademyAward Nominee #RooneyMara + me. #Oscars
A photo posted by Mr. Will Wong (@mrwillwong) on
Casey Affleck
Â#CaseyAffleck partying pre-#Oscars. #AcademyAwards
A photo posted by Mr. Will Wong (@mrwillwong) on
Rami Malek
ÂWith #MrRobot star #RamiMalek at #TIFF16 with #BustersMalHeart
A photo posted by Mr. Will Wong (@mrwillwong) on
Rachel Weisz
ÂA photo posted by Mr. Will Wong (@mrwillwong) on
Taraji P. Henson
ÂYes!!! Cookie Time!! #TarajiPHenson #TIFF16 #HiddenFigures #Empire
A photo posted by Mr. Will Wong (@mrwillwong) on
Jacob Tremblay
ÂMy favourite!!! #JacobTremblay back at #TIFF16 for #BurnYourMaps.
A photo posted by Mr. Will Wong (@mrwillwong) on
Gina Rodriguez
ÂWith the beautiful and gracious #GinaRodriguez. #DeepwaterHorizon #TIFF16 #nikond3300
A photo posted by Mr. Will Wong (@mrwillwong) on
Isabelle Huppert
ÂA photo posted by Mr. Will Wong (@mrwillwong) on
Kate Hudson
ÂMy girl #KateHudson. At her fitness wear shop, #Fabletics.
A photo posted by Mr. Will Wong (@mrwillwong) on
Mahershala Ali
Â#HouseofCards star #MahershalaAli at #TIFF16 with #MOONLIGHT.
A photo posted by Mr. Will Wong (@mrwillwong) on
Chadwick Boseman
ÂWith #ChadwickBoseman, at #TIFF16 with #MessagefromtheKing. #BlackPanther #Marvel
A photo posted by Mr. Will Wong (@mrwillwong) on
Charlie Cox
Â#CharlieCox at #FanExpoCanada. #FanExpo #Daredevil
A photo posted by Mr. Will Wong (@mrwillwong) on
Mark Hamill
Â#MarkHamill, b*tches. #StarWars #LukeSkywalker #FanExpo #FanExpoCanada
A photo posted by Mr. Will Wong (@mrwillwong) on
Riz Ahmed
ÂA photo posted by Mr. Will Wong (@mrwillwong) on
Lupita Nyong’o
ÂA photo posted by Mr. Will Wong (@mrwillwong) on
Suicide Squad: Will Smith, David Ayer + Margot Robbie
ÂA photo posted by Mr. Will Wong (@mrwillwong) on
Jason Statham
ÂWith handsome as hell #JasonStatham, at #MetGala. #MetBall #NYC
A photo posted by Mr. Will Wong (@mrwillwong) on
Robert Pattinson
ÂLong time no see, Robert! #GoGala #RobertPattinson
A photo posted by Mr. Will Wong (@mrwillwong) on
Anthony Bourdain
ÂWith culinary icon #AnthonyBourdain, appearing tomorrow night at Sony Centre!
A photo posted by Mr. Will Wong (@mrwillwong) on
Rick Astley
ÂA photo posted by Mr. Will Wong (@mrwillwong) on
“DeepVeer” – Ranveer Singh x Deepika Padukone
Â#Bollywood! This is for you!! #DeepVeer #DeepikaPadukone #RanveerSingh
A photo posted by Mr. Will Wong (@mrwillwong) on
Ruby Rose
Charlie Puth
Selena Gomez
Daya
With our favourite new Popstar, #Daya! She was in Toronto for #BigTicketSummer! #NikonD3300
A photo posted by Mr. Will Wong 📸 (@mrwillwong) on
Penny Oleksiak
ÂWith Canada’s pride and joy, #PennyOleksiak, Gold medal Olympian! #Olympics #Olympics2016
A photo posted by Mr. Will Wong (@mrwillwong) on
Milo Ventamiglia
Anthony Mackie
Team @mrwillw with a Selfie snapped by none other than #AnthonyMackie! Talented actor at #Triple9 Premiere tonight. pic.twitter.com/PNAqUsEKT8
â MR. WILL WONG (@mrwillw) February 24, 2016
HORSES
California Chrome
ÂA photo posted by Mr. Will Wong (@mrwillwong) on
Beholder
A photo posted by Mr. Will Wong (@mrwillwong) on
Songbird
ÂA photo posted by Mr. Will Wong (@mrwillwong) on
Catch a Glimpse
ÂCatch a Glimpse totally misses me. #BC16 #BreedersCup
A photo posted by Mr. Will Wong (@mrwillwong) on
Dartmouth
ÂA photo posted by Mr. Will Wong (@mrwillwong) on
Classic Empire
A photo posted by Mr. Will Wong (@mrwillwong) on
The Pizza Man
ÂP.s. He delivers! #ThePizzaMan wins the Northern Dancer Stakes! #WOMile #BetWoodbine #GetintheGame
A photo posted by Mr. Will Wong (@mrwillwong) on
Tepin
ÂA photo posted by Mr. Will Wong (@mrwillwong) on
Mutakayyef
Sir Dudley Digges
ÂA photo posted by Mr. Will Wong (@mrwillwong) on
Lexie Lou
Miss Katie Mae
ÂA photo posted by Mr. Will Wong (@mrwillwong) on
Lady Eli
Flintshire
ÂA photo posted by Mr. Will Wong (@mrwillwong) on
Frosted
Arrogate
Conquest Enforcer
ÂSnuggles with #ConquestEnforcer. Catch him #QP16 day!
A photo posted by Mr. Will Wong (@mrwillwong) on
A Pic by MrWill
“Princess” (@APicByMrWill) makes her 3rd start Friday at @WoodbineRacing! Her latest. https://t.co/P6aOwL6mfo pic.twitter.com/VaOhNuEgQS
â MR. WILL WONG (@mrwillw) August 2, 2016
See you ’17!
(Photo credit: Mr. Will Wong)
It’s 21 days till TIFFmas and part of the fun is that lead-up to the world’s greatest Film Festival! Announcements were made in July at TIFF Bell Lightbox for some of the Films premiering at TIFF ’16 this September, including Galas and Special Presentations. Week by week, more Films were unveiled including Canadian titles Documentaries, Midnight Madness, Vanguard and City to City Programme Films were announced!
Highlighting the Festival this year are marquee titles and Awards Season contenders like the much-delayed SNOWDEN from Oliver Stone, DEEPWATER HORIZON from Peter Berg, PATERSON from Jim Jarsmuch, NOCTURNAL ANIMALS from Fashion Icon and Filmmaker Tom Ford, Venice Opening Night Film LA LA LAND by Damien Chazzelle who brought us 2014’s stellar WHIPLASH, QUEEN OF KATWE gives us a rare Disney selection from Mira Nair, LBJ from Rob Reiner, ARRIVAL from Canadian darling Denis Villeneuve, BIRTH OF A NATION by Actor/Director Nate Parker, PERSONAL SHOPPER from Festival darling Olivier Assayas, AMERICAN HONEY comes with much fanfare from Andrea Arnold, and highly-buzzed LOVED from Jeff Nichols.
Veering to the dark, Films like disaster flick COLOSSAL starring Anne Hathaway, dystopian cannibal Fairy Tale THE BAD BATCH, Adam Wingard‘s BLAIR WITCH and FREE FIRE starring Brie Larson, will premiere as part of the Vanguard and Midnight Madness Programmes!
Although not confirmed yet if he’ll be coming, many eyes will be on Documentary THE TURNING POINT which has Leonardo DiCaprio interviewing various subjects, shedding light how society can save endangered species, ecosystems and native communities. Â AMANDA KNOX also will draw plenty of attention, giving us never-before-seen footage and accounts with those close to her much-publicized story.
Opening the Festival this year is Antoine Fuqua‘s THE MAGNIFICENT SEVEN and closing it will be coming-of-age Dramedy EDGE OF SEVENTEEN by Kelly Fremon Craig. Lucky number 7 is rather prevalent at #TIFF41!
Canadian titles announced include IT’S ONLY THE END OF THE WORLD from auteur Xavier Dolan, BELOW HER MOUTH from April Mullen, MEAN DREAMS from Nathan Morlando, TWO LOVERS AND A BEAR from Kim Nguyen, WEIRDOS from Bruce McDonald and Animated Feature WINDOW HORSES from Ann Marie Fleming. As part of the Masters Program, Deepa Mehta‘s ANATOMY OF VIOLENCE also will get a World Premiere.
Jim Jarsmuch, Isabelle Huppert, Amy Adams, Michael Shannon and David Oyelowo will be front and center at the Festival this year, each with two Films apiece. Michael Fassbender will be kicking the Festival off appearing at the annual TIFF SoirĂ©e at Lightbox. He stars in TRESPASS AGAINST US which will get its World Premiere at TIFF ’16.
Lagos, Nigeria has been announced as the City of focus at the Festival’s City to City Programme, showcasing Filmmakers living in that City.
Taraji P. Henson, Octavia Spencer, Janelle MonĂĄe and Pharrell Williams will appear at a special presentation of Theodore Melfiâs HIDDEN FIGURES LIVE which will for the first-time give TIFF members a chance to see footage from the upcoming Feature, followed by a live performance.
For the second time, TIFF presents its PRIMETIME Programme, focusing on Television. Episodes of series TRANSPARENT, BLACK MIRROR, WASTELAND and TUKO MACHO will be screening this year.
Here are some highlights from the first batch of TIFF ’16 Films announced:
âArrival,â Denis Villeneuve, USA, Canadian Premiere
âDeepwater Horizon,â Peter Berg, USA, World Premiere
âThe Headhunterâs Calling,â Mark Williams, Canada, World Premiere
âThe Journey is the Destination,â Bronwen Hughes, United Kingdom/South Africa, World Premiere
âJT + The Tennessee Kids,â Jonathan Demme, USA, World Premiere
âLBJ,â Rob Reiner, USA, World Premiere
âLion,â Garth Davis, Australia, World Premiere
âLoving,â Jeff Nichols, USA, North American Premiere
âA Monster Calls,â J.A. Bayona, USA/Spain, World Premiere
âPlanetarium,â Rebecca Zlotowski, France/Belgium, North American Premiere
âQueen of Katwe,â Mira Nair, South Africa/Uganda, World Premiere
âThe Rolling Stones OlĂ© OlĂ© OlĂ©! : A Trip Across Latin America,â Paul Dugdale, United Kingdom, World Premiere
âThe Secret Scripture,â Jim Sheridan, Ireland, World Premiere
âSnowden,â Oliver Stone, Germany/USA, World Premiere
âStrange Weather,â Katherine Dieckmann, USA, World Premiere
âTheir Finest,â Lone Scherfig, United Kingdom, World Premiere
âA United Kingdom,â Amma Asante, United Kingdom, World Premiere
âThe Age of Shadowsâ (Miljeong), Kim Jee woon, South Korea, North American Premiere
âAll I See Is You,â Marc Forster, Thailand, World Premiere
âAmerican Honey,â Andrea Arnold, USA, North American Premiere
âAmerican Pastoral,â Ewan McGregor, USA, World Premiere
âAsura: The City of Madness,â Kim Sung-soo, South Korea, World Premiere
âBarakah Meets Barakahâ (Barakah yoqabil Barakah), Mahmoud Sabbagh, Saudi Arabia, North American Premiere
âBarry,â Vikram Gandhi, USA, World Premiere
âBirth of the Dragon,â George Nolfi, USA/China/Canada, World Premiere
âThe Birth of a Nation,â Nate Parker, USA, International Premiere
âBleed for This,â Ben Younger, USA, Canadian Premiere
âBlue Jay,â Alex Lehmann USA, World Premiere
âBrimstone,â Martin Koolhoven, Netherlands/Germany/France/Belgium/Sweden/United Kingdom, North American Premiere
âBrotherhood,â Noel Clarke, United Kingdom, International Premiere
âCarrie Pilby,â Susan Johnson, USA, World Premiere
âCatfight,â Onur Tukel, USA, World Premiere
âCity of Tiny Lights,â Pete Travis, United Kingdom, World Premiere
âThe Communeâ (Kollektivet), Thomas Vinterberg, Denmark/Sweden/Netherlands, North American Premiere
âDaguerrotypeâ (Le Secret de la chambre noire), Kiyoshi Kurosawa, France/Japan/Belgium, World Premiere
âA Death in the Gunj,â Konkona Sensharma, India, World Premiere
âDenial,â Mick Jackson, USA/United Kingdom, World Premiere
âElle,â Paul Verhoeven, France, North American Premiere
âForeign Bodyâ (Jassad Gharib, Corps Etranger), Raja Amari, Tunisia/France, World Premiere
âFrantz,â François Ozon, France/Germany, Canadian Premiere
âThe Handmaidenâ (Agassi), Park Chan-wook, South Korea, North American Premiere
âHarmoniumâ (Fuchi ni tatsu), KĂŽji Fukada, Japan/France, North American Premiere
âI Am Not Madame Bovary,â Feng Xiaogang, China, World Premiere
âThe Journey,â Nick Hamm, United Kingdom, North American Premiere
âKing of the Dancehall,â Nick Cannon, USA/Jamaica, World Premiere
âLa La Land,â Damien Chazelle, USA, Canadian Premiere
âThe Limehouse Golem,â Juan Carlos Medina, United Kingdom, World Premiere
âManchester by the Sea,â Kenneth Lonergan, USA, Canadian Premiere
âMascots,â Christopher Guest, USA, World Premiere
âMaudie,â Aisling Walsh, Canada/Ireland, Canadian Premiere
âNeruda,â Pablo LarraĂn, Chile/Argentina/Spain/France, Canadian Premiere
âNocturnal Animals,â Tom Ford, USA/United Kingdom, North American Premiere
âThe Oath,â Baltasar KormĂĄkur, Iceland, World Premiere
âOrphanâ (Orpheline), Arnaud des PalliĂšres, France, World Premiere
âParis Can Wait,â Eleanor Coppola, USA, World Premiere
âPaterson,â Jim Jarmusch, USA, North American Premiere
âThe Salesman,â Asghar Farhadi, North American Premiere
âSalt and Fire,â Werner Herzog, Germany/USA/France/Mexico, North American Premiere
âSing,â Garth Jennings, USA/France, World Premiere
âSouvenir,â Bavo Defurne, Belgium/Luxembourg/France, North American Premiere
âThings to Comeâ (LâAvenir), Mia Hansen-LĂžve, France/Germany, Canadian Premiere
âToni Erdmann,â Maren Ade, Germany, Canadian Premiere
âTrespass Against Us,â Adam Smith, United Kingdom, World Premiere
âUna,â Benedict Andrews, United Kingdom, Canadian Premiere
âUnless,â Alan Gilsenan, Canada/Ireland, World Premiere
âThe Wasted Timesâ (Luo Man Di Ke Xiao Wang Shi) Cheng Er, China, World Premiere
Second batch of announcements:
“A Cool Sound from Hell,â Sidney J. Furie, Canada
“nirvanna the band the show,â Matt Johnson, Canada, World Premiere
“Nelly,â Anne Ămond, Canada, World Premiere
“X Quinientos Juan AndrĂ©s Arango,â Canada/Colombia/Mexico, World Premiere
“Boundaries,â ChloĂ© Robichaud, Canada, World Premiere
“Werewolf,â Ashley McKenzie, Canada, World Premiere
“Prank,” Vincent Biron, Canada, World Premiere
“Old Stone,â Johnny Ma, Canada/China, World Premiere
“Jean of the Joneses,â Stella Meghie, Canada, Canadian Premiere
“Hello Destroyer,â Kevan Funk, Canada, World Premiere
“ARQ,â Tony Elliott, USA/Canada, World Premiere
“The Stairs,â Hugh Gibson, Canada, World Premiere
“The Skyjackerâs Tale,â Jamie Kastner, Canada, World Premiere
“The River of My Dreams,â Brigitte Berman, Canada, World Premiere
“Mostly Sunny,â Dilip Mehta, Canada, World Premiere
“Giants of Africa,â Hubert Davis, Canada, World Premiere
“Black Code,â Nicholas de Pencier, Canada, World Premiere
“All Governments Lie: Truth, Deception, and The Spirit of I.F. Stone,â Fred Peabody, Canada, World Premiere
“We Canât Make the Same Mistake Twice,â Alanis Obomsawin, Canada, World Premiere
“Anatomy of Violence,” Deepa Mehta, Canada/India, World Premiere
“Window Horses (The Poetic Persian Epiphany of Rosie Ming),â Ann Marie Fleming, Canada, North American Premiere
“Weirdos,â Bruce McDonald, Canada, World Premiere
“Two Lovers and a Bear Kim,â Nguyen, Canada, North American Premiere
“Mean Dreams,â Nathan Morlando, Canada, North American Premiere
“Itâs Only the End of the World,â Xavier Dolan, Canada/France, North American Premiere
“Below Her Mouth,â April Mullen, Canada, World Premiere
Third batch of Films including Documentary, Midnight Madness and Vanguard Programmes:
“The 6th Beatle,” Tony Guma and John Rose, USA/United Kingdom/Germany, World Premiere
“ABACUS: Small Enough to Jail,” Steve James, USA World Premiere
“Amanda Knox,” Brian McGinn and Rod Blackhurst, USA/Denmark, World Premiere
“An Insignificant Man,” Khushboo Ranka and Vinay Shukla, India, World Premiere
“The B-Side: Elsa Dorfmanâs Portrait Photography,” Errol Morris, USA, International Premiere
“Beauties of the Night MarĂa,” JosĂ© Cuevas, Mexico, Canadian Premiere
“Bezness as Usual,” Alex Pitstra, Netherlands, North American Premiere
“Chasing Trane: The John Coltrane Documentary,” John Scheinfeld, USA. International Premiere
“The Cinema Travellers,” Shirley Abraham and Amit Madheshiya, India, North American Premiere
“Citizen Jane: Battle for the City,” Matt Tyrnauer, USA, World Premiere
“Forever Pure,” Maya Zinshtein, Israel/United Kingdom/Ireland/Norway, International Premiere
“Gaza Surf Club,” Philip Gnadt and Mickey Yamine, Germany, World Premiere
“Gimme Danger,” Jim Jarmusch, USA, North American Premiere
“Girl Unbound,” Erin Heidenreich, Pakistan/Canada/Hong Kong/South Korea, World Premiere
“I Am Not Your Negro,” Raoul Peck, USA/France/Belgium/Switzerland, World Premiere
“India in a Day,” Richie Mehta, India/United Kingdom, International Premiere
“In Exile Tin Win Naing,” Germany/Myanmar, World Premiere
“Into the Inferno,” Werner Herzog and Clive Oppenheimer, United Kingdom/Austria, International Premiere
“The Ivory Game Kief,” Davidson and Richard Ladkani, Austria/USA, International Premiere
“Karl Marx City,” Petra Epperlein and Michael Tucker, USA/Germany, World Premiere
“Mali Blues,” Lutz Gregor, Germany North, American
“Politics, Instructions Manual (PolĂtica, manual de instrucciones),” Fernando LeĂłn de Aranoa, Spain, International Premiere
“Rodnye (Close Relations),” Vitaly Mansky, Latvia/Germany/Estonia/Ukraine, North American Premiere
“The Turning Point,” USA, World Premiere
“The War Show Andreas Dalsgaard and Obaidah Zytoon,” Denmark/Finland/Syria, North American Premiere
“Water and Sugar: Carlo Di Palma, the Colours of Life,” Fariborz Kamkari, Italy, International Premiere
“The Autopsy of Jane Doe,” AndrĂ© Ăvredal, USA World Premiere
“Blair Witch,” Adam Wingard, USA, World Premiere
“Dog Eat Dog,” Paul Schrader, USA, North American Premiere
“Free Fire,” Ben Wheatley, United Kingdom, World Premiere
“The Girl With All the Gifts,” Colm McCarthy, United Kingdom, North American Premiere
“Headshot,” Kimo Stamboel and Timo Tjahjanto, Indonesia, World Premiere
“Rats Morgan,” Morgan Spurlock, USA, World Premiere
“Raw (Grave),” Julia Ducournau, France/Belgium, International Premiere
“Sadako vs. Kayako,” KĆji Shiraishi, Japan, International
“The Bad Batch Ana Lily Amirpour,” USA, North American Premiere
“Blind Sun Joyce,” A. Nashawati, France/Greece, North American Premiere
“Buster’s Mal Heart,” Sarah Adina Smith, USA, World Premiere
“Colossal,” Nacho Vigalondo, Canada, World Premiere
“Godspeed,” Chung Mong-Hong, Taiwan, World Premiere
“I Am the Pretty Thing That Lives in the House,” Osgood Perkins, Canada/USA, World Premiere
“Interchange,” Dain Iskandar Said, Malaysia/Indonesia, North American Premiere
“Message from the King,” Fabrice Du Welz, United Kingdom/France/Belgium, World Premiere
“My Entire High School Sinking Into the Sea,” Dash Shaw, USA, World Premiere
“Prevenge,” Alice Lowe, United Kingdom, North American Premiere
“The Untamed (La regiĂłn salvaje),” Amat Escalante, Mexico/Denmark/France/Germany/Norway/Switzerland, North American Premiere
“WITHOUT NAME,” Lorcan Finnegan, Ireland, World Premiere
Fourth wave of Films announced including respectively Galas, Special Presentations, Masters, City to City and Contemporary World Cinema Programmes:
“Norman: The Moderate Rise and Tragic Fall of a New York Fixer,” Joseph Cedar, USA/Israel, International Premiere
“The Promise,” Terry George, USA/Spain, World Premiere
“(Re)Assignment,” Walter Hill, Canada, World Premiere
“150 Milligrams (La Fille de Brest),” Emmanuelle Bercot, France, World Premiere
“The Bleeder,” Philippe Falardeau, USA, North American Premiere
“Brain on Fire,” Gerard Barrett, Ireland/Canada, World Premiere
“Burn Your Maps,” Jordan Roberts, USA/Mongolia, World Premiere
“Christine,” Antonio Campos, USA, Canadian Premiere
“The Duelist,” Alexey Mizgirev, Russia, World Premiere
“The Exception,” David Leveaux, United Kingdom, World Premiere
“I, Daniel,” Blake Ken Loach, United Kingdom/France/Belgium, North American Premiere
“In Dubious Battle,” James Franco, USA, North American Premiere
“The Long Excuse (Nagai Iiwake),” Miwa Nishikawa, Japan, World Premiere
“Rage,” Sang-il Lee, Japan, World Premiere
“Voyage of Time: Life’s Journey,” Terrence Malick, Germany, North American Premiere
“Wakefield,” Robin Swicord, USA, International Premiere
“After the Storm,” Hirokazu Kore-eda, Japan North, American Premiere
“Afterimage (Powidoki),” Andrzej Wajda, Poland, World Premiere
“The Bait (Tope),” Buddhadeb Dasgupta, India, World Premiere
“The Beautiful Days of Aranjuez (Les Beaux Jours d’Aranjuez),” Wim Wenders, France/Germany, North American Premiere
“Certain Women,” Kelly Reichardt, USA, Canadian Premiere
“Fire at Sea (Fuocoammare),” Gianfranco Rosi, Italy/France, Canadian Premiere
“Graduation (Bacalaureat),” Cristian Mungiu, Romania, Canadian Premiere
“Hissein HabrĂ©, A Chadian Tragedy,” Mahamat-Saleh Haroun, France/Chad, North American Premiere
“J: Beyond Flamenco (JOTA),” Carlos Saura, Spain, World Premiere
“Julieta,” Pedro AlmodĂłvar, Spain, North American Premiere
“Land of the Gods (Dev Bhoomi),” Goran PaskaljeviÄ, India/Serbia, World Premiere
“Ma’ Rosa Brillante,” Ma Mendoza, Philippines, North American Premiere
“The Net (Geumul),” Kim Ki-duk, South Korea, North American Premiere
“Never Ever (Ă jamais),” BenoĂźt Jacquot, France/Portugal, North American Premiere
“Once Again (Pinneyum),” Adoor Gopalakrishnan, India, International Premiere
“Personal Shopper,” Olivier Assayas, France, North American Premiere
“A Quiet Passion,” Terence Davies, United Kingdom/Belgium, North American Premiere
“Safari,” Ulrich Seidl, Austria, American Premiere
“Sieranevada,” Cristi Puiu, Romania, North American Premiere
“Sweet Dreams (Fai bei sogni),” Marco Bellocchio, Italy, North American Premiere
“The Unknown Girl (La Fille inconnue),” Luc Dardenne and Jean-Pierre Dardenne, Belgium/France, North American Premiere
“Yourself and Yours (Dangsinjasingwa dangsinui geot),” Hong Sang-soo, South Korea, World Premiere
“76,” Izu Ojukwu, Nigeria, World Premiere
“93 Days,” Steve Gukas, Nigeria, World Premiere
“The Arbitration,” Niyi Akinmolayan, Nigeria, International Premiere
“Green White Green,” Abba Makama, Nigeria, World Premiere
“Just Not Married,” Uduak-Obong Patrick, Nigeria, International Premiere
“Okafor’s Law,” Omoni Oboli, Nigeria, World Premiere
“Oko Ashewo (Taxi Driver),” Daniel Emeke Oriahi, Nigeria, North American Premiere
“The Wedding Party,” Kemi Adetiba, Nigeria, World Premiere
“A Decent Woman (Los Decentes),” Lukas Valenta Rinner, Austria/South Korea/Argentina, North American Premiere
“After Love (L’Ă©conomie du couple),” Joachim Lafosse, France/Belgium, North American Premiere
“The Animal’s Wife (La Mujer del Animal),” VĂctor Gaviria, Colombia, International Premiere
“Apprentice,” Boo Junfeng, Singapore/Germany/France/Hong Kong/Qatar, North American Premiere
“Aquarius,” Kleber Mendonça Filho, Brazil/France, North American Premiere
“Ayiti Mon Amour,” Guetty Felin, Haiti/USA, International Premiere
“Brooks, Meadows and Lovely Faces (Al Ma’ wal Khodra wal Wajh al Hassan),” Yousry Nasrallah, Egypt, North American Premiere
“Clair Obscur (TereddĂŒt),” YeĆim UstaoÄlu, Turkey/Germany/Poland/France, World Premiere
“Death in Sarajevo (Smrt u Sarajevu),” Danis TanoviÄ, Bosnia and Herzegovina/France, North American Premiere
“Ember (Kor),” Zeki Demirkubuz, Turkey/Germany, International Premiere
“The Fixer (Fixeur),” Adrian Sitaru, Romania/France, World Premiere
“Handsome Devil,” John Butler, Ireland, World Premiere
“Heaven Will Wait (Le ciel attendra),” Marie-Castille Mention-Schaar, France, North American Premiere
“In Between (Bar Bahr),” Maysaloun Hamoud, Israel/France, World Premiere
“Indivisible (Indivisibili),” Edoardo de Angelis, Italy, International Premiere
“Marie Curie, The Courage of Knowledge,” Marie NoĂ«lle, Germany/France/Poland, World Premiere
“Mister Universo,” Tizza Covi and Rainer Frimmel, Austria/Italy, North American Premiere
“Past Life,” Avi Nesher, Israel, World Premiere
“The Patriarch (Mahana),” Lee Tamahori, New Zealand, North American Premiere
“Pyromaniac (Pyromanen),” Erik SkjoldbjĂŠrg, Norway, International Premiere
“The Rehearsal,” Alison Maclean, New Zealand, North American Premiere
“The Road to Mandalay,” Midi Z, Taiwan/Myanmar/France/Germany, North American Premiere
“Santa & Andres (Santa y AndrĂ©s),” Carlos Lechuga, Cuba/Colombia/France, World Premiere
“Soul on a String,” Zhang Yang, China, International Premiere
“Tamara and the Ladybug (Tamara y la Catarina),” LucĂa Carreras, Mexico/Spain, World Premiere
“Tramps,” Adam Leon, USA, World Premiere
“Vaya,” Akin Omotoso, South Africa, World Premiere
“We Are Never Alone (Nikdy nejsme sami),” Petr Vaclav, Czech Republic/France, North American Premiere
“The Wedding Ring (Zin’naariyĂą!),” Rahmatou KeĂŻta, Niger/Burkina Faso/France, World Premiere
“The Womenâs Balcony (Ismach Hatani),” Emil Ben Shimon, Israel, World Premiere
“ZaÄma: Blindness Ryszard Bugajski,” Poland, World Premiere
“Zoology (Zoologiya),” Ivan I. Tverdovsky, Russia/France/Germany, North American Premiere
Individual Tickets for TIFF ’16 go on-sale on Sunday, September 4, 2016 at 9:00 AM here. Bookmark that link!
TIFF ’16 takes over the City Thursday, September 8, 2016 through Sunday, September 18, 2016.
We’ll see you there!
(Photo credit: Fox Searchlight, Focus Features, Elevation Pictures, eOne Films)
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