Hot Docs announced today that the popular long-running series Big Ideas will return as part of the 2026 Hot Docs Festival, taking place April 23 to May 3, 2026 in Toronto. Celebrating its 13th year, Big Ideas gives audiences a rare opportunity to experience the premieres of four thought-provoking documentaries immediately followed by a dynamic, in-depth conversation with the filmmakers and subjects who brought these incredible stories to the big screen.
 
The 2026 Big Ideas series will see the world premieres of two new films exploring the ways we seek to build our personal lives online. In Emmy-nominated director Shalini Kantayya’s Love Apptually, we swipe right on a journalist’s exploration of dating app algorithms, and we sink into early aughts nostalgia to catch up with everyone’s old friend Tom in Myspace, Tommy Avallone’s portrait of the pioneering social networking platform. Receiving its North American premiere is Iranian-Canadian filmmaker Raha Shirazi’s A War on Women, which traces 40 years of feminist resistance by Iranian women against the Islamic Republic, and receiving a Canadian premiere is Steal This Story, Please! from Oscar-nominated filmmakers Carl Deal and Tia Lessin (Trouble the Water), a gripping portrait of Democracy Now! trailblazer Amy Goodman, whose unwavering commitment to truth-telling spans three decades of turbulent history.

Filmmakers from each of these films as well as subject Amy Goodman will be in attendance at this year’s Festival to take part in Big Ideas live on stage.

“Big Ideas events are one of the ways Hot Docs brings documentary storytelling directly into conversation with the world around us,” said Diana Sanchez, Executive Director, Hot Docs. “These screenings invite audiences to experience the film and then continue the conversation live – with filmmakers, journalists and experts – about the issues shaping our world today. We’re honoured to welcome Amy Goodman and these filmmakers for what will be a thoughtful and engaging discussion.”

The films will each receive their premiere at the Festival as part of Big Ideas. Three will receive additional screenings throughout the Festival as part of the Special Presentations program, with the fourth screening as part of a yet to be announced themed program. Guests participating in Big Ideas are included below, with moderators to be announced over the coming weeks.

LOVE APPTUALLY
D: Shalini Kantayya | P: Elizabeth Woodward | USA, Australia | 2026 | 81 min | World Premiere
Tired of swiping without results? Follow one journalist’s quest to unpack the dating app algorithms shaping modern romance as she reveals how, in an already lonely world, technology, bias and profit are increasingly influencing who we meet and why.

Filmmaker and Hot Docs alum Shalini Kantayya (Coded Bias; TikTok, Boom) discusses her latest deep dive into the world of technology, this time focusing on Tinder. Love Apptually explores the unknown structures behind big tech and the algorithms that both lift and restrict the users attempting to find love in the digital age.

MYSPACE
D: Tommy Avallone | P: Van Toffler, Trent Johnson | USA | 2025 | 96 min | World Premiere
What is the legacy of Myspace? Pulling at the heartstrings of millennials and curious newcomers alike, this nostalgic portrait traces how this pioneering social networking platform shaped the digital world we now inhabit, from online fame to social media overload.

Join director Tommy Avallone for a conversation about Myspace, the pioneering social media site that became a cultural phenomenon for casual users and upcoming artists alike, and how it set the stage for the social media landscape that we know today.

STEAL THIS STORY, PLEASE!
D: Carl Deal, Tia Lessin | P: Carl Deal, Tia Lessin, Karen Ranucci, Diana Cohn, Caren Spruch | USA | 2026 | 102 min | Canadian Premiere
Fiercely independent journalist Amy Goodman has spent three decades holding the powerful to account, reporting from conflict zones and the Democracy Now! newsroom as an essential voice highlighting global issues and pursuing truth in an era of “alternative” facts.

Journalist Amy Goodman joins Oscar-nominated filmmaker Tia Lessin for a conversation about the importance of independent journalism in a world where media representatives can often be stifled and how those still fighting shine a spotlight on the stories that need to be told.

A WAR ON WOMEN
D: Raha Shirazi | P: Marco Serrecchia, Marica Stocchi, Beatrice Bordone Bulgari, Gianluca Curti, Daniele Occhipinti, Luca Bradamante | Italy | 2026 | 102 min | North American Premiere
Long before the world chanted “Woman, Life, Freedom,” Iranian women have been rising up. Intimate interviews and archival footage trace 40 years of feminist resistance against the Islamic Republic, culminating in a revolution led by the very women the regime tried to silence.

Join director Raha Shirazi for an exploration of women’s rights in Iran, from decades of resistance and activism to the recent rally cry of “Woman, Life, Freedom,” and how A War on Women spotlights well-known members of the community to reframe the global conversation around how these women are changing history.

New this year, Big Ideas Cocktails will take place before each Big Ideas event. These receptions offer audiences the opportunity to gather and connect before the screening. Tickets are $50 per person and must be purchased in addition to a ticket for the same-day Big Ideas screening.

Film stills of Big Ideas titles are available at tinyurl.com/HD2026SP1

For more information on Hot Docs, visit hotdocs.ca

Hot Docs (hotdocs.ca) is North America’s leading documentary festival, conference and market. A not-for-profit organization dedicated to advancing and celebrating the art of documentary and to creating production opportunities for documentary filmmakers, Hot Docs will present its 33rd annual edition in Toronto from April 23 to May 3, 2026. Hot Docs will also mount a dynamic series of knowledge sessions, networking opportunities and market programs for documentary practitioners and industry delegates, including the renowned Hot Docs Forum and Hot Docs Deal Maker. Since its inception in 1993, Hot Docs has supported the Canadian and international industry with professional development programs, production fund portfolio, and valuable professional development programs. The organization fosters education through documentaries with its popular free program Docs For Schools. Hot Docs also operates the Hot Docs Ted Rogers Cinema, a century-old landmark located in Toronto’s Annex neighbourhood and the world’s first and largest documentary cinema.
Starting Tuesday, March 24, Festival ticket package holders, including Doc Soup subscribers, can use their ticket packages, and Hot Docs Members can purchase single tickets. Starting Tuesday, March 31, single tickets will be available to the public. Tickets and ticket packages can be purchased and/or redeemed online at www.hotdocs.ca or in person at Hot Docs Ted Rogers Cinema Box Office, located at 506 Bloor Street West (hours vary daily in accordance with cinema screenings). Single tickets are $22 ($20 member) for regular screenings, and $27 ($24 member) for Big Ideas screenings. A Festival 12-Pack is $228 and a Festival 20-Pack is $340 ($216 and $320 members). Hot Docs offers free tickets for regular screenings before 4:00 p.m. to patrons 60+ and students with valid photo I.D., available online the day of the screening, subject to availability.

Hot Docs is proud to include Rogers as its Founding Partner and Telefilm Canada, the Government of Ontario, and the Canada Media Fund as its Major Supporters.

It was an action-packed week filled with events, including conventions, red carpets, screenings, concerts, restaurant tastings and receptions. And most importantly, time with loved ones!

We couldn’t ask for a better partner for a test drive than the exceptional 2026 HONDA CR-V HYBRID TOURING. This compact crossover SUV hits all the marks for everything we could possibly need, delivering a balance of style and performance!

The CR-V Hybrid Touring in striking Canyon River Blue Metallic, is undeniably eye-catching, and also powerful with a 2.0-litre inline 4-cylinder engine, with Real Time AWD™ with Intelligent Control System™, and operating at 204 horsepower, combined. You get four driving modes here including: ECON, Normal, Sport, and Snow.

While gas prices have been unbelievable of late, the CR-V Hybrid Touring still had our back, delivering plenty of ‘bang for our buck’, with a fuel economy of 6.0/6.9/6.4 litres/100km for City/Highway/Combined on Regular Fuel.

This SUV is loaded with features, starting with an easy pushbutton start, proximity key entry system and smart entry, really making it a breeze to get going. We also love that it has walkaway lock, giving us less reasons to fumble about.

You also get a heated steering wheel, heated seats, dual-zone climate control, second-row heater ducts, plus perforated leather-trimmed seats with orange accents, plus 8-way power adjustment including 2-way power lumbar support for the Driver.

Audiophiles can rejoice that the 2026 CR-V Hybrid Touring comes with a 12-speaker BOSE® Premium Sound System, which is controlled by a 9″ touchscreen centre display. The SUV also comes Apple CarPlay® / Android Auto™ -ready, with HD Radio™. Trust me, you need to experience this in-person to hear the difference! Radio has never sounded better!

We love that our passengers are taken care of and there’s plenty of charging options here for everyone including: 2 USB-C 3.0A (Front), 2 USB-C 3.0A (Rear), plus also a Wireless phone charger.

The CR-V includes all-season P235/55 R19 101H M+S tires, while also coming with a tire kit. There also are maintenance reminders. Its Gloss Black 19″ aluminum-alloy wheels, give it an elevated look. Also, its door handles are body-coloured, and it also has a tailgate spoiler, plus black roof rails. We love its ambient lighting in white front. It’s all in the details.

We love Driver Assist Technology and included here are: Adaptive Cruise Control, Auto high beam headlights, Blind Spot Information (BSI) system, Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS®), Cross Traffic Monitor (CTM), Lane Departure Warning** (LDW), Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS), Low-Speed Braking Control, Road Departure Mitigation (RDM) system, Traffic Jam Assist, and Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR) system.

Active Safety features in the CR-V include: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Brake Assist, Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA®) with Traction Control, Hill Start Assist, and Hill Descent Control.

Passive safety features include: 3-point seat belts at all seating positions, Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure, Advanced front airbags (SRS), Childproof rear door locks, Driver attention monitor, Driver’s and front passenger’s advanced front airbags (SRS), Driver & passenger side knee airbag, Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH), Rear outboard passengers’ side airbags, Rear seat reminder, Seat belt reminder for all seating positions, Side curtain airbags with rollover sensor, and SmartVent™ side airbags.

In a climate where safety is very much on our minds, the CR-V Hybrid Touring comes with a security system, immobilizer theft-deterrent system, plus also rear privacy-tinted glass, which are valued.

We also appreciate its multi-angle rearview camera with dynamic guidelines, making parking and reversing so easy. In fact, it’s got a genius rear camera washer too and also four parking sensors! We all know the nuisance of the rear view camera view being obstructed, as we depend on it!

This truly is an SUV made for all seasons and we got a snapshot of this with some unpredictable weather during our test drive which ranged from spring-like weather to a snowstorm. Its rain-sensing wipers, with tilt and slide function and a one-touch power Moonroof have you equipped for all seasons…and reasons!

Some highlights from our Test Drive:

The 2026 Honda CR-V Hybrid Touring starts at $54,341 CAN. More here.

(Photo/video credit: Mr. Will Wong)

Marvel Television is launching its first official series companion video podcast with the “Daredevil: Born Again Official Podcast” on Disney+. The nine-episode podcast series will take fans deeper into the world of Daredevil with intimate, “actors on actors” style conversations with the cast and crew.

The podcast launches on Tuesday, March 17, 2026 a week before the March 24, 2026 “Daredevil: Born Again” Season 2 debut on Disney+, with a lookback at Season 1 featuring Wilson Bethel (Benjamin Poindexter/Bullseye), executive producer and showrunner Dario Scardapane, executive producer Sana Amanat, and executive producer and Head of Marvel Television Brad Winderbaum in conversation. Subsequent podcast episodes will share unprecedented access with the cast and crew of the series, breaking down episodes, highlighting Easter eggs, and bringing audiences behind the scenes into the stunts, score, costumes and more that make the series.

Marvel Television’s “Daredevil: Born Again Official Podcast” will be available on Disney+ and YouTube, with the audio-only version available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you listen to podcast. It joins a growing lineup of companion video podcasts now streaming on Disney+, designed to deepen fans’ connections to their favorite TV shows and keep them engaged between episodes. Viewers can enjoy podcasts from series like “Paradise,” FX’s “Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr. & Carolyn Bessette,” “Tell Me Lies,” and “Percy Jackson and the Olympians.”

In Season 2 of Marvel Television’s “Daredevil: Born Again,” Mayor Wilson Fisk crushes New York City underfoot as he hunts down public enemy number one, the Hell’s Kitchen vigilante known as Daredevil. But, beneath the horned mask, Matt Murdock will try to fight back from the shadows to tear down the Kingpin’s corrupt empire and redeem his home. Resist. Rebel. Rebuild.

The series stars Charlie Cox, Vincent D’Onofrio, Wilson Bethel, Deborah Ann Woll, Margarita Levieva, Krysten Ritter, Matthew Lillard, and Ayelet Zurer. Justin Benson and Aaron Moorhead, Solvan Naim, Angela Barnes and Iain B. MacDonald direct.

“Daredevil: Born Again” was created for television by Dario Scardapane and Chris Ord & Matt Corman, and is executive produced by Kevin Feige, Louis D’Esposito, Brad Winderbaum, Sana Amanat, Dario Scardapane, Justin Benson & Aaron Moorhead, Iain B. MacDonald, Charlie Cox, Vincent D’Onofrio.

Daredevil: Born Again Season Two will debut exclusively on Disney+ March 24 at 6pm PT / 9pm ET.

Little Italy’s Radici Project (588 College St.) will transform its dining room into a tranquil Japanese tea setting on Sunday, March 22, for one afternoon only. It will be led by tea masters Mika Sato and Satoshi Yoshikawa of Mika, a Toronto-based Japanese botanical and craft studio. The event will run from 12 pm to 1:30 pm, and will introduce guests to ceremonial matcha and premium Japanese teas through guided tastings paired with seasonal bites by Executive Chef Emiliano Del Frate. It is designed for tea enthusiasts and matcha lovers who wish to explore the deeper nuances of these exceptional teas, offering a hands-on experience that reveals the ritual, precision, and craftsmanship at the heart of Japanese tea preparation.
Tickets are $80 per guest (inclusive of taxes and gratuity), and include the tea ceremony and seasonal bites. Due to the ceremonial format and limited seating of 12 guests, reservations are expected to sell quickly. Bookings can be made HERE.

During the event, Mika and Satoshi will also showcase and offer their handmade ceramics and tea wares for purchase, allowing guests to experience the craftsmanship behind the ceremony firsthand.

The Experience

The event will run across the seatings from 12:00–1:30 p.m., accommodating 12 guests. Participants will be divided into two groups and rotate between two tea stations, spending approximately 40 minutes at each before switching.

This tea ceremony will feature two matcha teas by each master.

At the first station, Satoshi Yoshikawa will guide guests through ceremonial matcha preparation.

Participants will taste usucha, the lighter whisked matcha most commonly served in tea ceremonies, and koicha, a thicker and more concentrated style of matcha known for its deep umami flavour and formal cultural significance. For matcha enthusiasts, koicha offers a different profile than the familiar bowl of matcha — richer, more intense, and traditionally served in smaller portions.

The next station, led by Mika Sato, will highlight premium Japanese loose-leaf teas, including gyokuro, a shade-grown tea prized for its sweetness and layered umami, and charcoal-roasted sencha, whose warm roasted notes provide a striking contrast to the delicacy of matcha.

To complement the teas, Chef Emiliano Del Frate will present seasonal finger foods paired to each tea, perfectly reflecting Radici Project’s philosophy of blending Italian technique with Japanese culinary influence.

The Philosophy
This collaboration reflects the philosophy behind Mika, the Toronto studio founded by Mika Sato. Inspired by the countryside of her childhood in Hiroshima, Sato created Mika as a space to bring the calming presence of nature and Japanese craft into urban life. Her work blends botanical design, pottery, and traditional Japanese aesthetics—an approach shaped by her study of ikebana, the centuries-old Japanese floral art form.

Joining her is Satoshi Yoshikawa, a ceramic artist originally from Okayama, Japan, who trained in pottery across Okinawa, Okayama, and Bizen. Specializing in wood-fired ceramics used for tea and sake, Yoshikawa draws inspiration from traditional Japanese kiln techniques and has exhibited his work in Japan before continuing his practice in Canada.

For Toronto’s growing community of matcha enthusiasts and tea lovers, the event offers an experience of traditional tea preparation, handcrafted ceramics, and the meditative philosophy behind Japanese tea culture—all within the intimate setting of Radici Project. Bookings can be made HERE.

About Radici Project
Radici Project is a contemporary Italian-Japanese restaurant located in Toronto’s Little Italy. Founded by husband-and-wife duo Chef Emiliano Del Frate and Kayo Ito, the restaurant explores the intersection of Italian and Japanese culinary traditions through seasonal menus rooted in sustainability and Canadian ingredients. Radici’s dual-concept space features both a natural wine bar and an intimate chef’s table dining experience, offering thoughtful sake and wine pairings alongside its cuisine.

About Mika
Founded by Hiroshima-born artist and designer Mika Sato, Mika is a Toronto-based studio and retail space that blends Japanese craftsmanship with nature-inspired design. Drawing from her upbringing in the Japanese countryside, Sato creates botanical works and handcrafted ceramics—including kokedama moss balls, terrariums, and unique pottery—that bring a sense of calm and natural beauty into urban spaces. Since opening in 2017, MIKA has become a destination for thoughtfully curated plants, handmade goods, and Japanese cultural pieces that encourage a more mindful connection to nature.

Toronto Comicon has unveiled the official schedule for 2026, featuring an action-packed lineup of panels, experiences and live programming for fans of all ages and fandoms.

Toronto Comicon 2026 returns to the North building of the Metro Toronto Convention Centre from March 20-22, 2026, transforming the space into a vibrant hub of pop culture. Whether you love comics, fantasy, sci-fi, horror, gaming, or anime, this year’s event promises unforgettable and must-see moments.

Alongside celebrity autographs and photo opportunities, the show floor is brimming with exclusive merch, collectibles and the latest fandom finds. Throughout the three-day event, fans can also join celebrity panels, workshops, competitions and immersive experiences.

Among the new highlights is the D&D Live Play: Legends of Gaming, bringing three epic adventures to the stage. Audiences can watch the story unfold live as players embark on high-stakes quests filled with magical moments to musical surprises and plenty of hilarious antics along the way.

Movie lovers can celebrate two beloved classics with special anniversary screenings of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (1990) marking its 35th anniversary and Shrek, celebrating 25 years. Fans can also watch the exclusive Season 2 premiere of StackTV’s Ted (the series) and win prizes.

Hasbro will be activating family fun inside the Friendiverse Lounge with the Marvel Power-up Play Zone where Marvel Universe fans can unleash their inner hero. Grab a lightsaber or strike an epic pose in the Star Wars – Grogu’s Galactic Play Pad, create epic battles and pose with Autobots and Decepticons in the Transformers Cyber World HQ or let it rip! at the Beyblade Battle Arena. This station will test your strategy, challenge new friends and experience the thrill of head-to-head competition.

Gaming fans can also step into The Grand Theft Auto Experience: Legends of Los Santos with Shawn Fonteno, Steven Ogg and Ned Luke. This one-of-a-kind panel dives into the legacy of GTA V, exploring the creative process behind its unforgettable characters, behind-the-scenes stories and its lasting impact on gaming and pop culture.

Gamers will also have the chance to meet some of the voices behind their favourite games, including Mallory Low (Ghost of Yōtei), Jason Spisak (Arcane), JB Blanc (Apex Legends, Arcane), Crystal Lee (Marvel Rivals), Lucie Pohl (Overwatch, The Mighty Nein), Jenn Yokobori (Fortnite), and Imari Williams (Demon Slayer).

NEW PROGRAMMING HIGHLIGHTS FOR TORONTO COMICON 2026 INCLUDE:

SHREK 25TH ANNIVERSARY VIEWING WITH LIVE “ALL STAR” PERFORMANCE
Sunday, March 22 at 2PM | Room 201EF
Join us for a special 25th anniversary screening of the original Shrek (2001) featuring a live band performance of Smash Mouth’s iconic “All Star” to kick off the event. Watch the complete film that revolutionized animation and won the first Academy Award for Best Animated Feature. Sing along, quote favourite lines, and celebrate this milestone with fellow fans who’ve been loving our green ogre since 2001.

TMNT 35TH ANNIVERSARY MOVIE VIEWING
Friday, March 20 at 6PM | Room 201EF
Cowabunga! Experience the shell-shocking original that started it all! Join fellow TMNT fans for a special 35th anniversary screening of the legendary 1990 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles movie – the dark, gritty live-action masterpiece that brought our Heroes in a Half Shell to the big screen.

TED SEASON 2 SCREENING
Friday, March 20 at 6PM | Main Stage
Watch the new season premiere of Ted and win prizes! In this comedic prequel event series to the Ted films, it’s 1994, and senior year of high school is underway for Ted the foul-mouthed teddy bear and his best friend, likable but awkward John Bennett. First 50 attendees will receive a special door prize and 5 lucky winners will get a prize pack!

GTA RADIO LIVE
Saturday, March 21 at 6:15PM | Main Stage
Double Experience is an Ottawa-based nerd rock duo known for high-energy performances and genre-blending rock. With nearly 1,000 shows across 18 countries, the band is now unveiling GTA FM: Live! at Toronto Comic Con. This event flips through iconic musical vibes from across the Grand Theft Auto franchise, reimagined for the stage.

KPOP DEMON HUNTERS SING ALONG
Saturday, March 21 at 11:30AM | Main Stage

Calling all KPop Demon Hunter fans! The Toronto Honmoon is in danger and we need your help to get it Golden. Join other Kpop Demon Hunters Super fans and cosplayers at the sing along. Don’t feel like singing, that’s ok! Lip Sync, dance, and just enjoy yourself with the awesome music from the soundtrack.

COSPLAY MEETUP: INFLATABLE T-REX
Sunday, March 22 at 1PM | Cosplay HQ
Join the most entertainingly chaotic cosplay meetup of the convention! Whether you’re a seasoned inflatable dinosaur veteran or first-timer, come stomp with the herd for epic photos, hilarious poses, and Jurassic-sized fun! RAWR means “I love you” in dinosaur! This event is in partnership with the Royal Ontario Museum and all participants will receive free admission to the ROM.

D&D LIVE PLAY NIGHTS: LEGENDS OF GAMING
Three epic tales will unfold at Toronto Comicon during D&D Live Play: Legends of Gaming. From magical moments to musical numbers, check out what we have in store for each day below.

The Deadliest Dungeon
Friday, March 20 At 3PM | Main Stage
Join DM Tommy Gofton as he takes our heroes from EPIC level 20’s to level 1 and be thrust into Imaria’s epic Deadliest Dungeon. Get ready to watch the party die repeatedly in the most ridiculous ways until they find their way out of the cursed dungeon and back to their Epic Level 20. But will that be the end?

Imarian Nights: A Musical D&D Adventure
Saturday, March 21 At 2PM | Main Stage
DM Tommy Gofton is taking our party through an adventure with Nazborah, the musical genie. You, the audience, can help shape the adventure as they attempt to unravel the enigmatic clues in the opening number and conquer the unpredictable obstacles.

The Dread-Liest Dungeon
Sunday, March 22 At 2PM | Main Stage
On Sunday, DM Tommy Gofton will lead our party through a quest where the stakes are high, but the tower is higher. From traps to combat, you never know what lurks around every corner.

FRIENDIVERSE LOUNGE – SPONSORED BY HASBRO
Marvel – Power-Up Play Zone
Step into the Marvel Universe and unleash your inner hero! Kids can gear up with our latest Marvel role-play toys and strike their most powerful pose inside a life-sized action figure package. Little heroes can also relax and get creative with super hero-themed colouring sheets. Whether you’re Team Spidey, Wakanda Forever, or Earth’s Mightiest Heroes, this is your chance to Be a Hero!

Star Wars – Grogu’s Galactic Play Pad
Enter a galaxy far, far away! Young fans can choose their favourite Grogu figure, grab a lightsaber, and step inside a larger-than-life action figure package. Strike an epic pose and capture a photo that’s out of this world. With hands-on play and galactic fun, this zone is perfect for Padawans and bounty hunters alike. The Force is strong at this booth — don’t miss your chance to join the adventure!

Beyblade Battle Arena
Let it rip! At the Beyblade Customization Station, bladers can learn how to build and customize their own tops before jumping into exciting free-play battles. Test your strategy, challenge new friends, and experience the thrill of head-to-head competition. Whether you’re a seasoned blader or brand new to the arena, there’s action waiting for you. Plus, kids can grab a free Beyblade poster to take home while supplies last!

Transformers Cyber World HQ
Roll out into the Transformers Cyber World Play Zone! Kids can explore the latest Cyber World figures, create epic battles, and pose their Autobots and Decepticons in action-packed scenes. With hands-on play, creative storytelling, and interactive fun, this zone is perfect for young Transformers fans. There are also activity and colouring sheets to enjoy, plus cool stickers to collect. Get ready to convert, combine imagination, and power up your Cyber World adventure!

COMMUNITY ZONE
Ontario Cosplay Collective Free Professional Photos
Join the Ontario Cosplay Collective at our booth on the show floor for a free professional photo on an OCC set. Whether you’re solo or with friends, it’s an easy, fun way to get a great shot of your cosplay. Spots are limited.

Ontario Cosplay Community in Wonderland Meet up
Lewis Carrol’s story Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland has been inspiring creativity for over 160 years. Walt Disney’s beloved retelling celebrates its 75th anniversary this year! Join us for a whimsical cosplay meet-up celebrating Alice and all things Wonderland! Whether you’re channeling Alice’s blue dress, the Mad Hatter’s eccentric style, the Queen of Hearts’ royal drama, or the Cheshire Cat’s mysterious grin, all Wonderland characters are welcome. Bring your most creative interpretations – from classic Disney looks to modern twists on beloved characters. Perfect photo opportunities with fellow Wonderland residents! Share costume tips, pose for group shots, and celebrate three-quarters of a century of this timeless animated masterpiece that continues inspiring cosplayers worldwide.

Toronto Steampunk Society:
Parasol Duelling
Steampunk Parasol Duelling is a theatrical and playful sport where participants, known as duelists, engage in mock combat using parasols. Inspired by Victorian etiquette and steampunk aesthetics, duelists perform choreographed moves, showcasing their dexterity, flair, and creativity. It’s an entertaining blend of combat and performance art. Steampunk attire is optional.

Tea Duelling
Steampunk Tea Duelling is a whimsical Victorian-inspired sport where participants, known as duelists, compete in dunking and consuming biscuits (cookies) without breaking or crumbling. This terribly courteous and civilized form of duelling requires steady hands, nerves of steel, and a sense of theatrics. Steampunk attire is optional.

For the Full programming schedule visit: fanexpohq.com/comicontoronto/our-schedule

For a complete list of guests, info and tickets, visit: torontocomicon.com

A new trailer and poster for “Star Wars: Maul – Shadow Lord” are now available to download and share. The all-new animated series from Lucasfilm Animation will premiere exclusively on Disney+ April 6, 2026. Two episodes will premiere each week, with the final two airing on the ultimate Star Wars holiday, May the 4th.

Set after the events of “Star Wars: The Clone Wars,” this pulpy adventure finds Maul plotting to rebuild his criminal syndicate on a planet untouched by the Empire. There, he crosses paths with a disillusioned young Jedi Padawan who could be the apprentice he is seeking to aid him in his relentless pursuit for revenge.

“Star Wars: Maul – Shadow Lord” is created by Dave Filoni, based on Star Wars and characters created by George Lucas. The series is developed by Dave Filoni and Matt Michnovetz. Brad Rau is supervising director. The executive producers are Dave Filoni, Athena Yvette Portillo, Matt Michnovetz, Brad Rau, Carrie Beck, and Josh Rimes. Alex Spotswood is the co-executive producer. The voice cast includes Sam Witwer as Maul, Gideon Adlon as Devon Izara, Oscar® nominee Wagner Moura as Brander Lawson, Richard Ayoade as Two-Boots, Dennis Haysbert as Master Eeko-Dio-Daki, Chris Diamantopoulos as Looti Vario, Charlie Bushnell as Rylee Lawson, Vanessa Marshall as Rook Kast, David W. Collins as Spybot, A.J. LoCascio as Marrok, and Steve Blum as Icarus.

The highly anticipated Ottawa outpost from globally renowned chef and restaurateur Akira Back will officially open to the public on Saturday, March 21, 2026 inside the Fairmont Château Laurier at 1 Rideau Street in the heart of Canada’s capital. The new dining destination will invite guests to experience Back’s signature approach to modern Japanese cuisine with global influences, served in an energetic atmosphere designed for sharing and discovery.

The Boardroom, Private Dining Room

“Opening Akira Back in Ottawa is a moment I’ve been looking forward to,” said Chef Akira Back. “As the capital of Canada, it’s a city with such a strong sense of history and culture, and I’m excited to finally welcome guests through the doors and share the flavours, creativity and spirit that define the restaurant.”

Adding a personal element to the space, the restaurant will feature bold artwork created by Young Hee Back, Chef Akira Back’s mother, bringing vibrant colour and artistic character to the dining room.

The opening menu will showcase a selection of Akira Back’s globally celebrated dishes alongside new creations developed specifically for Ottawa, blending refined technique with bold flavour combinations. Guests will be able to enjoy signature plates such as Tuna Pizza, Salmon Tataki, signature rolls like Brother from Another Mother, as well as premium mains including Wagyu Picanha and Seared Seabass. The experience will conclude with desserts like the AB Cigar and Apple Harumaki, offering a playful finish that reflects the restaurant’s signature balance of creativity and elegance.

Grilled Alaskan King Crab

The beverage program will feature a curated sake list alongside a selection of signature cocktails, including the Lychi-tini, Wise Samurai and Geisha, designed to complement the restaurant’s menu and Japanese-inspired flavours.

“We’re delighted to officially welcome guests to Akira Back Ottawa beginning March 21,” said Genevieve Dumas, General Manager of Fairmont Château Laurier. “From the menu and cocktail program to the vibrant energy of the space, every detail has been thoughtfully designed to deliver a memorable dining experience that feels elevated, dynamic, and uniquely Ottawa.”

Akira Back Ottawa will officially open to the public on Saturday, March 21 and will operate daily from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Reservations are now open. For more information or to reserve a table, visit www.akirabackottawa.com.

CONNECT

Akira Back Ottawa
Instagram: @akirabackottawa
Web: www.akirabackottawa.com

Fairmont Château Laurier
Instagram: @fairmontlaurier
Web: www.fairmont.com/laurier-ottawa

ABOUT AKIRA BACK
The Akira Back brand is a diverse portfolio of restaurants and lounges around the globe which pride themselves on creating innovative culinary experiences combined with a social atmosphere and elegant ambiance. The mission statement is to make unforgettable memories for our guests by revolutionizing the dining experience through one-of-a-kind dishes and gracious service.

Seoul native and former professional snowboarder, Chef Akira Back spent his early years appearing in extreme sports movies and garnering praise from the sport’s top trade publications. Back eventually retired from snowboarding and took his need for speed and desire for adventure to the kitchen.

Chef Back has since brought his culinary expertise and artistry across the globe. He currently operates 28 locations under his banner in cities such as Paris, Hong Kong, Dubai, Delray Beach, Singapore, Toronto and more. He plans to open 10 more over the next 2 years including: Rome, Taipei and Pensacola for a global footprint that is unmatched. For more information, visit the company website at www.akiraback.com.

ABOUT FAIRMONT CHÂTEAU LAURIER
Fairmont Château Laurier has been turning moments into special memories since its grand opening in 1912. The historic castle stands proudly beside Parliament Hill in the heart of downtown Ottawa and has been a symbol of Canadian elegance and hospitality for 113 years. Blending timeless grandeur with contemporary sophistication, its 426 elegantly designed guest rooms and suites offer an experience rich in character, unmistakably tied to Canada’s capital. Guests can savour refined Canadian cuisine at the newly reimagined Zoé’s, enjoy its celebrated Afternoon Tea tradition, or take in Ottawa’s most sought-after seasonal patio experience at La Terrasse. A champion of sustainability and a proud 4 Green Key–certified property, the hotel also features unparalleled access to the UNESCO-designated Rideau Canal. The reimagined Fairmont Gold, offering elevated accommodations and an exclusive lounge with sweeping views of Parliament Hill and the Ottawa River, was awarded a distinguished MICHELIN Key in 2025 for its exceptional service and design. Frequently featured in film and literature and a member of Historic Hotels Worldwide, Fairmont Château Laurier continues to embody Fairmont’s signature approach to hospitality—where engaging service and iconic spaces create meaningful, memorable experiences at the heart of every visit.

When Canadians consider weight loss protocols, the conversation typically revolves around caloric restriction, cardiovascular exercise, and metabolic rate. However, there is a hidden danger in every fat loss journey that rarely gets discussed: sarcopenia—the loss of muscle mass.

For researchers exploring RAD-140 (Testolone) in 2026, understanding the complex relationship between this potent compound, muscle preservation, and metabolism is critical. This article examines RAD-140 through a unique lens: not merely as an anabolic compound, but as a potential metabolic tool with significant implications for body composition research.

Understanding Sarcopenia: The Hidden Cost of Weight Loss

Sarcopenia, derived from Greek meaning “poverty of flesh,” refers to the progressive loss of skeletal muscle mass and strength. While commonly associated with aging, sarcopenia is also an unintended consequence of aggressive caloric restriction.

When the body enters a sustained caloric deficit, it does not discriminate between fat and muscle for energy. Research indicates that up to 25% of weight lost through dieting alone can come from lean muscle tissue. This metabolic reality creates a paradox: the very act of trying to improve body composition can actually compromise the metabolic machinery needed to maintain that improvement.

Muscle tissue is metabolically active. Each pound of muscle burns approximately 6-7 calories per day at rest. When muscle mass decreases, resting metabolic rate follows suit. This is the classic “weight loss plateau” phenomenon—the body becomes more efficient at surviving on fewer calories, making further fat loss progressively difficult.

For researchers studying body recomposition, the ideal scenario is clear: maximize fat loss while preserving—or even building—lean muscle tissue. This is precisely where RAD-140 enters the conversation.

RAD-140 and Muscle Preservation: The Mechanistic Connection

RAD-140 (Testolone) was originally developed by Radius Health, Inc. for therapeutic applications including muscle wasting disorders and breast cancer. Its mechanism of action involves selective binding to androgen receptors in skeletal muscle and bone tissue, stimulating anabolic gene transcription that enhances protein synthesis and nitrogen retention.

What makes RAD-140 particularly relevant to the sarcopenia discussion is its demonstrated ability to preserve lean mass even in catabolic states. A 2025 study published in ScienceDirect examining RAD-140’s impact on frailty in aging mice found that RAD-140 treated male mice showed significantly preserved lean mass compared to controls. The study also noted lower serum interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels in treated males, suggesting an anti-inflammatory effect that may further protect muscle tissue during metabolic stress.

This preservation effect has direct implications for weight loss research. When the body is in a caloric deficit, it exists in a catabolic state—breaking down tissue for energy. RAD-140’s anabolic signaling may help counterbalance this catabolic pressure, allowing for fat mobilization while skeletal muscle remains protected.

Differential Muscle Response: Not All Fibers Are Equal

Fascinatingly, RAD-140 does not affect all muscles equally. A 2024 study presented at the American College of Sports Medicine annual meeting investigated RAD-140’s effects on different muscle groups in rats. Researchers found that RAD-140 treatment significantly increased cross-sectional area in the plantaris muscle—a muscle involved in standing and locomotion—while the tibialis anterior remained unchanged.

This differential response suggests that muscle recruitment patterns, fiber type composition, and functional load may influence how RAD-140 affects specific muscle groups. For researchers designing weight loss protocols, this raises important questions: Which muscles are most critical to preserve during fat loss? Should preservation strategies target specific muscle groups?

The plantaris contains a higher proportion of fast-twitch (Type II) fibers, which are typically more responsive to anabolic stimuli but also more susceptible to atrophy during caloric restriction. RAD-140’s apparent affinity for these fibers may make it particularly valuable for preserving explosive strength and metabolic capacity during cutting phases.

The Metabolic Ripple Effect: Beyond Simple Thermodynamics

The relationship between muscle preservation and metabolism extends far beyond the basic calories-burned-per-pound calculation. Skeletal muscle serves as the body’s primary glucose disposal site. When muscle mass decreases, insulin sensitivity often follows suit.

This creates another metabolic paradox: rapid weight loss through extreme dieting can actually impair the body’s ability to handle carbohydrates efficiently, potentially setting the stage for future fat regain. By preserving muscle tissue during caloric restriction, RAD-140 may help maintain—or even improve—insulin sensitivity throughout the weight loss process.

Furthermore, muscle tissue acts as an endocrine organ, secreting myokines that influence systemic metabolism. Interleukin-6, the same inflammatory marker reduced in RAD-140 treated mice, plays complex roles in metabolism. While chronically elevated IL-6 is associated with insulin resistance and inflammation, acute IL-6 release from contracting muscle actually promotes fat oxidation. RAD-140’s modulation of inflammatory markers may thus have nuanced effects on metabolic health during weight loss.

The Fat Loss Evidence: What Research Actually Shows

It is important to distinguish between direct and indirect fat loss effects when evaluating RAD-140. Unlike Cardarine (GW-501516), which directly activates PPARδ pathways involved in fat metabolism, RAD-140 does not appear to possess direct lipolytic properties. Instead, its fat loss effects are primarily indirect, mediated through:

1. Preserved metabolic rate via muscle retention
2. Increased energy expenditure during physical activity due to improved strength and endurance
3. Improved nutrient partitioning favoring muscle over fat storage

Clinical data from human trials, while limited, supports modest body composition improvements. In breast cancer trials, RAD-140 demonstrated an acceptable safety profile at various doses, with some patients experiencing decreased appetite and weight—though these were classified as adverse events in the therapeutic context.

Anecdotal reports from researchers suggest that RAD-140 cycles typically produce “dry” gains characterized by increased vascularity and muscle hardness without significant water retention. This visual leanness may create the perception of fat loss even when scale weight remains stable.

Sex-Specific Considerations: A Critical Variable

One of the most important findings from recent research concerns RAD-140’s sex-specific effects. The 2025 mouse study revealed that while male mice experienced significant benefits in lean mass preservation, bone mineral density, and inflammatory markers, female mice showed no such improvements. In fact, other research has suggested that RAD-140 may negatively impact skeletal muscle adaptation and frailty status in female mice.

This sexual dimorphism has profound implications for research protocols. Female researchers exploring RAD-140 for weight loss purposes may not experience the same muscle-preserving benefits as males, potentially altering the risk-benefit calculation. The mechanism likely relates to baseline androgen levels and androgen receptor distribution, which differ significantly between sexes.

For female researchers, alternative compounds such as low-dose Ostarine (MK-2866) or ACP-105 may offer more predictable muscle-preserving effects during caloric restriction. Ostarine, in particular, has extensive clinical validation for muscle preservation in wasting conditions and demonstrates a more favorable tolerability profile.

The Suppression Dilemma: Trading Muscle for Hormones

No discussion of RAD-140 and metabolism would be complete without addressing the elephant in the room: testosterone suppression. RAD-140’s potent anabolic effects come at a cost—significant downregulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis.

For male researchers, this means that while RAD-140 may preserve muscle during a cut, it simultaneously suppresses natural testosterone production. Low testosterone during a caloric deficit can exacerbate lethargy, reduce libido, and impair recovery—all factors that may undermine the weight loss effort.

This suppression creates a strategic dilemma. The muscle-preserving benefits of RAD-140 must be weighed against the metabolic consequences of temporarily impaired hormonal status. This is why responsible research protocols include:

• Comprehensive pre and post bloodworkto establish baseline hormone levels and track changes
• Structured post-cycle therapy (PCT)to restore natural production
• Cycle lengths limited to 6-8 weeks to minimize prolonged suppression
• Liver support compounds such as TUDCA or NAC, as RAD-140 has been associated with liver enzyme elevations in clinical trials 

Practical Implications for Canadian Researchers

For those planning to buy RAD-140 in Canada for weight loss research, several practical considerations emerge from the current evidence:

Timing Matters

The differential muscle response noted in research suggests that RAD-140 may be most effective when combined with targeted training. Since the plantaris muscle responded while the tibialis anterior did not, researchers should consider emphasizing exercises that recruit muscles with favorable fiber type compositions.

Caloric Deficit Design

Extreme caloric restriction may overwhelm RAD-140’s muscle-sparing effects. Moderate deficits (300-500 calories below maintenance) likely allow RAD-140 to exert its anabolic effects more effectively than crash dieting approaches.

Stack Considerations

Some researchers combine RAD-140 with Cardarine (GW-501516) for cutting cycles, leveraging RAD-140’s muscle preservation with Cardarine’s direct fat metabolism effects. Others incorporate MK-677 for its growth hormone secretagogue effects, though this requires caution due to potential insulin resistance and visceral fat accumulation.

Source Quality

The metabolic precision required for effective weight loss research demands compounds of known purity and consistent dosing. This is why domestic sourcing through vendors like NEOSARMs—with their 99% purity guarantee and tablet formulations—removes variables that could compromise research validity.

Conclusion: A Nuanced Tool for Complex Research

RAD-140’s role in weight loss research is neither simple nor direct. It does not burn fat through magical mechanisms. Instead, it offers something arguably more valuable: the potential to preserve the metabolically active tissue that makes sustainable fat loss possible.

By protecting skeletal muscle during caloric restriction, RAD-140 may help researchers avoid the sarcopenia trap that sabotages so many weight loss efforts. The preserved muscle mass maintains metabolic rate, supports insulin sensitivity, and provides the physical capacity for continued training throughout the cutting phase.

However, these potential benefits come with significant responsibilities. Hormonal suppression, liver stress, and sex-specific response patterns must all be factored into research protocols. The compound demands respect, preparation, and a comprehensive approach that includes bloodwork, support supplements, and proper PCT.

For Canadian researchers willing to approach RAD-140 with the seriousness it deserves, it remains one of the most fascinating tools available for studying the complex relationship between muscle mass, metabolism, and body composition.

Sources

(2025). “RAD-140 vs Ostarine (MK-2866): Best SARM for Beginners?” https://swolverine.com/en-au/blogs/blog/rad-140-vs-ostarine-mk-2866-best-sarm-for-beginners

Heinze-Milne, S., et al. (2025). “The impact of a selective androgen receptor modulator (RAD140) on frailty and underlying mechanisms in older male and female C57Bl/6 mice.” ScienceDirect. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0047637425000302

Middleton, R.C., Puskas, J., Lees, S.J., Otis, J.S. (2024). “Differential Effects Of RAD140 Treatment On Rat Tibialis Anterior And Plantaris Muscle Cross-Sectional Areas.” Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, 56(10S): 422. https://journals.lww.com/acsm-msse/fulltext/2024/10001/differential_effects_of_rad140_treatment_on_rat.962.aspx

LoRusso, P., et al. (2022). “A First-in-Human Phase 1 Study of a Novel Selective Androgen Receptor Modulator (SARM), RAD140, in ER+/HER2- Metastatic Breast Cancer.” Clinical Breast Cancer, 22(1): 67-77. https://www.clinicalbreastcancer.com/article/S1526-8209(21)00207-8/fulltext

Greenfield, B. (2017). “A New & Potent SARMs Stack For Muscle-Building, Fat-Loss & Anti-Aging: How To Use MK-677 and RAD-140.” com. https://bengreenfieldlife.com/article/biohacking-articles/how-to-use-mk-677-and-rad-140/

Brown, A.M., Ganjayi, M.S., Baumann, C.W. (2023). “RAD140 (Testolone) negatively impacts skeletal muscle adaptation, frailty status and mortality risk in female mice.” Clinical and Experimental Pharmacology and Physiology, 50(12): 973-983. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37758180/

Ladna, M., et al. (2023). “Idiosyncratic drug-induced liver injury related to use of novel selective androgen receptor modulator RAD140 (Testalone): a case report.” Journal of Medical Case Reports, 17(1): 134. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36978171/

Nebula Genomics. (2021). “RAD 140 review – A lab drug may one day build muscle?” https://nebula.org/blog/rad-140-review/

National Institutes of Health. (2025). “Search Results: RAD140.” PubMed. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/?term=rad140

Sonwu Biotech. (2025). “SARMs: Real Uses Of RAD-140.” https://www.sonwuapi.com/news/sarms-real-uses-of-rad-84382122.html

Awards Season has concluded and ONE BATTLE AFTER ANOTHER reigned supreme being named Best Picture at this year’s 98th Academy Awards. In addition to Best Picture, the Film also saw Writer/Director Paul Thomas Anderson take Director and Adapted Screenplay, along with Sean Penn taking Supporting Actor, Andy Jurgensen winning for Editing, and Cassandra Kulukundis winning the inaugural Oscar for Casting.

SINNERS also was a big part of the conversation tonight, winning four Oscars including Michael B. Jordan for Best Actor in a contentious battle with Timothée Chalamet (Marty Supreme), Writer/Director Ryan Coogler winning for Original Screenplay, Ludwig Goransson winning for Original Score, and Autumn Durald Arkapaw making history as the first female Director of Photography to win for Cinematography.

Canada would have a strong showing, with Toronto Filmmaker Maggie Kang’s KPOP DEMON HUNTERS winning Best Animated Feature and Original Song. Guillermo del Toro‘s FRANKENSTEIN, shot in Toronto, would see Tamara Deverell and Shane Vieau winning for Production Design, while Jordan Samuel and Cliona Furey won for Make-Up and Hair. THE GIRL WHO CRIED PEARLS won Animated Short for Montreal duo Chris Lavis and Maciek Szczerbowski.

The event was hosted by Conan O’Brien in his debut at the prestigious night, winning the audience with his quick wit and occasional veering to political commentary.

Here are the winners below:

Best picture

WINNER: One Battle After Another
Bugonia
Frankenstein
F1
Hamnet
Marty Supreme
The Secret Agent
Sentimental Value
Sinners
Train Dreams

Best actress

WINNER: Jessie Buckley – Hamnet
Rose Byrne – If I Had Legs I’d Kick You
Kate Hudson – Song Sung Blue
Renate Reinsve – Sentimental Value
Emma Stone – Bugonia

Best actor

WINNER: Michael B Jordan – Sinners
Timothée Chalamet – Marty Supreme
Leonardo DiCaprio – One Battle After Another
Ethan Hawke – Blue Moon
Wagner Moura – The Secret Agent

Best supporting actress

WINNER: Amy Madigan – Weapons
Elle Fanning – Sentimental Value
Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas – Sentimental Value
Wunmi Mosaku – Sinners
Teyana Taylor – One Battle After Another

Best supporting actor

WINNER: Sean Penn – One Battle After Another
Benicio del Toro – One Battle After Another
Jacob Elordi – Frankenstein
Delroy Lindo – Sinners
Stellan Skarsgård – Sentimental Value

Best director

WINNER: Paul Thomas Anderson – One Battle After Another
Ryan Coogler – Sinners
Josh Safdie – Marty Supreme
Joachim Trier – Sentimental Value
Chloé Zhao – Hamnet

Best animated feature

WINNER: KPop Demon Hunters
Arco
Elio
Little Amélie or the Character of Rain
Zootopia 2

Best international feature

WINNER: Sentimental Value
It Was Just an Accident
Sirât
The Secret Agent
The Voice of Hind Rajab

Best documentary feature

WINNER: Mr Nobody Against Putin
Come See Me in the Good Light
Cutting Through the Rocks
The Alabama Solution
The Perfect Neighbor

Best original screenplay

WINNER: Sinners – Ryan Coogler
Blue Moon – Robert Kaplow
It Was Just an Accident – Jafar Panahi
Marty Supreme – Ronald Bronstein and Josh Safdie
Sentimental Value – Eskil Vogt and Joachim Trier

Best adapted screenplay

WINNER: One Battle After Another – Paul Thomas Anderson
Bugonia – Will Tracy
Frankenstein – Guillermo del Toro
Hamnet – Chloé Zhao and Maggie O’Farrell
Train Dreams – Clint Bentley and Greg Kwedar

Best original song

WINNER: Golden – KPop Demon Hunters (by EJAE, Mark Sonnenblick, Joong Gyu Kwak, Yu Han Lee, Hee Dong Nam, Jeong Hoon Seo and Teddy Park)
Dear Me – Diane Warren: Relentless (by Diane Warren)
I Lied to You – Sinners (by by Raphael Saadiq and Ludwig Goransson)
Sweet Dreams of Joy – Viva Verdi! (by Nicholas Pike)
Train Dreams – Train Dreams (by Nick Cave and Bryce Dessner)

Best original score

WINNER: Sinners – Ludwig Goransson
Bugonia – Jerskin Fendrix
Frankenstein – Alexandre Desplat
Hamnet – Max Richter
One Battle After Another – Jonny Greenwood

Best cinematography

WINNER: Sinners – Autumn Durald Arkapaw
Frankenstein – Dan Laustsen
Marty Supreme – Darius Khondji
One Battle After Another – Michael Bauman
Train Dreams – Adolpho Veloso

Best film editing

WINNER: One Battle After Another – Andy Jurgensen
F1 – Stephen Mirrione
Marty Supreme – Ronald Bronstein and Josh Safdie
Sentimental Value – Olivier Bugge Coutté
Sinners – Michael P Shawver

Best sound

WINNER: F1 – Gareth John, Al Nelson, Gwendolyn Yates Whittle, Gary A Rizzo and Juan Peralta
Frankenstein – Greg Chapman, Nathan Robitaille, Nelson Ferreira, Christian Cooke and Brad Zoern
One Battle After Another – José Antonio García, Christopher Scarabosio and Tony Villaflor
Sinners – Chris Welcker, Benjamin A Burtt, Felipe Pacheco, Brandon Proctor and Steve Boeddeker
Sirât – Amanda Villavieja, Laia Casanovas and Yasmina Praderas

Best visual effects

WINNER: Avatar: Fire and Ash – Joe Letteri, Richard Baneham, Eric Saindon and Daniel Barrett
F1 – Ryan Tudhope, Nicolas Chevallier, Robert Harrington and Keith Dawson
Jurassic World Rebirth – David Vickery, Stephen Aplin, Charmaine Chan and Neil Corbould
Sinners – Michael Ralla, Espen Nordahl, Guido Wolter and Donnie Dean
The Lost Bus – Charlie Noble, David Zaretti, Russell Bowen and Brandon K McLaughlin

Best production design

WINNER: Frankenstein – Tamara Deverell and Shane Vieau
Hamnet – Fiona Crombie and Alice Felton
Marty Supreme – Jack Fisk and Adam Willis
One Battle After Another – Florencia Martin and Anthony Carlino
Sinners – Hannah Beachler and Monique Champagne

Best casting

WINNER: One Battle After Another – Cassandra Kulukundis
Hamnet – Nina Gold
Marty Supreme – Jennifer Venditti
Sinners – Francine Maisler
The Secret Agent – Gabriel Domingues

Best make-up and hairstyling

WINNER: Frankenstein – Mike Hill, Jordan Samuel and Cliona Furey
Kokuho – Kyoko Toyokawa, Naomi Hibino and Tadashi Nishimatsu
Sinners – Ken Diaz, Mike Fontaine and Shunika Terry
The Smashing Machine – Kazu Hiro, Glen Griffin and Bjoern Rehbein
The Ugly Stepsister – Thomas Foldberg and Anne Cathrine Sauerberg

Best costume design

WINNER: Frankenstein – Kate Hawley
Avatar: Fire and Ash – Deborah L Scott
Hamnet – Malgosia Turzanska
Marty Supreme – Miyako Bellizz
Sinners – Ruth E Carter

Best animated short

WINNER: The Girl Who Cried Pearls
Butterfly
Forevergreen
Retirement Plan
The Three Sisters

Best live action short

WINNER (TIED): The Singers
WINNER (TIED): Two People Exchanging Saliva
A Friend of Dorothy
Butcher’s Stain
Jane Austen’s Period Drama

Best documentary short

WINNER: All the Empty Rooms
Armed Only with a Camera: The Life and Death of Brent Renaud
Children No More: Were and Are Gone
The Devil Is Busy
Perfectly a Strangeness

Some of the evening’s top fashion, including Demi Moore, Teyana Taylor, Hudson Williams, Renate Reinsve, and Elle Fanning.

(Photo credit: Getty Images)

16-year-old Nashville Singer/Songwriter Maddox Batson sold-out his Danforth Music Hall show as part of his LIVE WORLDWIDE TOUR, and we got to attend an intimate acoustic performance and Q&A with the charismatic young star at Warner Music Canada‘s Headquarters!

Some highlights:

Batson has stamped himself a name to look-out for in Country with 105M U.S. on-demand streams, 444M YouTube views and a combined social media following of 5.6M to date!

Check out his tracks “Girl in the Green” and his latest single “Any Other Night”:

[(Photo/video credit: Warner Music/Mr. Will Wong)