Media are invited to celebrate the art of storytelling at the 46th Annual Toronto International Festival of Authors (TIFA). This year’s Festival showcases more than 100 events, including engaging author conversations, insightful panels, masterclasses, interactive workshops, book signings, and unique experiences. Running today until November 2, 2025 at the historic Victoria University in the University of Toronto in the heart of the city, the Festival offers something for everyone.

Notable Events:

October 29
Kiran Desai: Love Lost & Found – Isabel Bader Theatre 5:30pm
Natalie MacMaster: Family & Fiddles – Isabel Bader Theatre 7:30pm

October 30
Richard Armitage: Cutting Room Floor – Isabel Bader Theatre 6:00pm
Chris Pavone: Class Clash – Isabel Bader Theatre 8:00pm

October 31
Toronto Poetry Slam: Janice Jo Lee, Tahira Rajwani & Ian Keteku – Isabel Bader Theatre 7:30pm

November 1
Fiction Across Worlds: André Alexis & Susan Choi – 1:30pm Isabel Bader Theatre
Kōtarō Isaka: Hotel Lucky Seven & Seesaw Monster – 3:30pm Isabel Bader Theatre Supported by The Japan Foundation, Toronto

November 2
David Shribman: The Future of History in America – 2pm Isabel Bader Theatre
Thomas King: Aliens on the Moon – 4:30pm Isabel Bader Theatre

Follow along on social:

Facebook: facebook.com/FestofAuthors/

Instagram: instagram.com/festofauthors/

YouTube: youtube.com/user/AuthorsatHC/

About TIFA:

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

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

Here for two nights only, Disney and Pixar’s TOY STORY IN CONCERT in Toronto at Meridian Hall November 21-22, 2025. Winner gets premium seating and priority entry for either show!

The Show will be performed by the FILMharmonique Orchestra in celebration of TOY STORY‘s 30th anniversary!

Event Details

Meridian Hall, 1 Front St E, Toronto
Friday, November 21, 7:30 PM and Saturday, November 22, 2:00 PM

-Complete film on the big screen with composer Randy Newman’s iconic score performed by a live orchestra in sync to the picture, dialogue and sound effects (“live-to-picture”)

-Conducted by rising Canadian classical star Francis Choinière

-Introduction by Richard Crouse (CTV News, CP24, NEWSTALK 1010)

-Free photo ops with admission

Synopsis

Cowboy doll Woody (Tom Hanks) lives happily as the leader of Andy’s toys, until the arrival of a shiny new action figure, Buzz Lightyear (Tim Allen). Afraid of losing his place in Andy’s heart, Woody plots against Buzz. But when circumstances separate both toys from their owner, the two must learn to put their differences aside.

Genre: Animated Adventure

Cast: Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, Don Rickles, Jim Varney, Wallace Shawn

Director: John Lasseter

Producers: Ralph Guggenheim, Bonnie Arnold

Executive Producers: Ed Catmull, Steve Jobs

Screenplay: Josh Whedon, Andrew Stanton, Joel Cohen, 
Alec Sokolow.

Original Story: John Lasseter, Pete Docter, Andrew Stanton
, Joe Ranft

Music: Randy Newman

To enter for a chance to win, click “like” on this Post at MR. WILL ON FACEBOOK or IG. Please indicate in comments the date of the show you would like the attend and tag 1 friend you are taking. Multiple entries allowed. You will need to be able to get to Toronto for this. You must be following.

Click here for tickets.

TOLive.com for more.

Super Channel is proud to present a raw and electrifying look at one of Canada’s most iconic and fearless artists, Bif Naked. The Super Channel Fuse Original documentary Bif Naked premieres Friday, November 21, 2025 at 9 p.m. ET on Super Channel Fuse and is available On Demand the same day. Bif Naked recently won the Music on Screen Audience Award at the Calgary International Film Festival.

Born in India, adopted by American missionaries, and raised in Winnipeg, Bif Naked carved her own path—rising through the male-dominated punk scene with her unmistakable voice, poetic lyrics, and defiant spirit. Behind the tattoos and powerhouse performances is a survivor of cancer, addiction, and heartbreak, whose strength and vulnerability reshaped what it means to be a rock star. Through rare footage, intimate interviews, and unforgettable performances, Bif Naked celebrates a woman who has never played by the rules—and has never backed down. The documentary also features commentary from Bif’s friends and colleagues George Stroumboulopoulos, Denise Donolon, Jordan Alexander and more.

“I am so overwhelmed by the reaction my documentary is receiving from audiences and reviewers,” said Bif Naked. Our director, Pollyanna Hardwicke-Brown is truly my guardian angel. Not only has she followed my career, but I feel she truly understands me and really captured my story. This film is about my journey and ultimately I want the audience to be able to transcend what they think they know about me and feel, so that by the end of the film, they will be inspired to overcome any obstacle, any hardship, and believe that they too will come out on the other side even stronger. I am so deeply grateful to Electric Panda and Score G Productions, the crew, our post-production, and of course, Super Channel – my wonderful supporter who helped bring this film to life.”

“Bif is a true Canadian icon — fearless, inspiring, and unapologetically herself,” said Kim Ball, Chief Content and Communications Officer, Super Channel. “Her story is as powerful as her music, and we are proud to bring this candid and moving documentary to Super Channel viewers.”

Executive Producers for Bif Naked are Jhod Cardinal, Rod Gregory, Jim Wright, Christopher Tavlarides, Jimmy Lynn, Jade Ansell, Yipeng Ben Lu, Cody Sparshu. Producers are Adam Scorgie, Yas Taalat, Gabriel Napora and Shane Fennessey. Writer and director is by Pollyanna Hardwicke-Brown. Ringmaster is Peter Karroll.

The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Foundation unveils additional music icons and cultural trailblazers joining the lineup of presenters and performers set to honour this year’s Inductees at the 40th Annual Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, taking place at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, California.

Fans can be part of this historic night by tuning in as the Induction Ceremony streams live coast to coast on Disney+ November 8, 2025 at 5:00 p.m. PST / 8:00 p.m. EST.

The newly announced special guests include the following:

Avril Lavigne
Bryan Adams
Chappell Roan
Donald Glover
En Vogue
Feist
Gina Schock
Hurby Luv Bug Azor
Janelle Monáe
Jerry Cantrell
Jim Carrey
Joe Perry
The Killers
Lisa Coleman
Mick Fleetwood
Mike McCready
Nancy Wilson
Nathaniel Rateliff
Tedeschi Trucks Band

They join the previously announced lineup of presenters and performers, which includes Beck, Brandi Carlile, David Letterman, Doja Cat, Elton John, Flea, Iggy Pop, J.I.D, Killer Mike, Maxwell, Missy Elliott, Olivia Rodrigo, Questlove, RAYE, Sleepy Brown, Taylor Momsen, Teddy Swims, and Twenty One Pilots.

Ahead of the big night on November 8, the celebration continues on ABC’s “Dancing with the Stars,” which will feature a special “Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Night” episode on Tuesday, November 4, honouring the music and legacy of Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Inductees past and present.

The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony honors this year’s Inductees: Bad Company, Chubby Checker, Joe Cocker, Cyndi Lauper, Outkast, Soundgarden and The White Stripes in the Performer category, along with Salt-N-Pepa and Warren Zevon for Musical Influence, Thom Bell, Nicky Hopkins and Carol Kaye for Musical Excellence, and Lenny Waronker for the Ahmet Ertegun Award.

For more information on the 40th Annual Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, visit rockhall.com.

We’re delighted to have test driven the 2025 Honda Pilot Trailsport to celebrate our birthday week! Whether we were heading to fundraisers, festivals, or just having low-key birthday celebrations with our friends and family, we were definitely travelling in-style!

What is a Trailsport? The term refers to a trim that includes rugged features for improved capability on unpaved and challenging terrain.

Powered by an incredible 24-valve DOHC with Dual Variable Timing Control (VTC) engine and operating at 285 horsepower, this midsize SUV comfortably seats up to seven people over three rows. The Pilot never disappoints and yet again, this offering gave us smooth, comfortable drives, equipped with an incredible seven driving modes (Sport, Normal, Econ, Snow, Tow, Trail, Sand) for every adventure life throws at us.

We are a fan of the pushbutton start and pushbutton gear shifts. For a vehicle of its size and power, we feel the Pilot Trailsport actually offers decent fuel economy at 13.2/10.1/11.8 L/100 km on Regular fuel. Its ECON mode and Idle Stop help you get a bit more out of your dollar.

It also is packed with luxuries like a 225-watt audio system with 9 speakers including subwoofer, a big panoramic moonroof, and a 9″ touchscreen display – which by today’s standards could actually be a big bigger, considering the size of the vehicle. You also get 4 USB charging ports throughout, along wireless charging in the front row.

The Driver’s seat comes with 10-way power adjustment, including power lumbar support, heated front and second row seats, plus eyecatching TrailSport Leatherette with Orange stitch. You’ve heard of dual climate zone, but the Pilot Trailsport comes with Tri-zone climate control, with humidity control as well!

We find the bigger the ride, the more it needs a multi-angle review camera for reversing and parking, and the camera here comes with dynamic guidelines rear camera washer. We love intuitive touches like walkaway power locks which are highly reactive, and also rear seat reminders.

The Pilot Trailsport lends its focus to safety, almost hyper-aware when we should be pressing our brakes and when there were objects approaching.  Active safety features include: 4-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Brake Assist, Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS®) (HS*), Forward Collision Warning (FCW) system (HS*), Lane Departure Warning3 (LDW) system (HS*), Road Departure Mitigation3 (RDM) system (HS*), Rear seat reminder, Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) with tire fill assist, Trailer Stability Assist, Vehicle Stability Assist3 (VSA®) with Traction Control. and more.

Passive safety features are plentiful, including: Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure, Advanced front airbags, HondaLink™ Assist Automatic Emergency Response System, Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH), SmartVent™ side airbags, Driver’s and passenger’s side knee airbag, Three-row side curtain airbags with rollover sensor system, and more as well.

Some highlights from our Birthday Week celebrations, starring the 2025 Honda Pilot Trailsport:

The 2025 Honda Pilot Trailsport starts at $62,996 CAN. More here.

(Photo/video credit: Mr. Will Wong)

Today, Disney+ announced that the Emmy®-winning, Original comedy series “Only Murders in the Building” starring Steve Martin, Martin Short, and Selena Gomez, has been renewed for a sixth season consisting of 10 episodes. The series will venture overseas for the first time, with the beloved crime-solving trio leaving New York City to investigate London’s newest mystery.

The series is now streaming exclusively on Hulu on Disney+ in Canada.

Season five features a star-studded cast, including the return of multi-Oscar®/Emmy® winner Meryl Streep and Da’Vine Joy Randolph, Richard Kind, Nathan Lane, Bobby Cannavale, Renée Zellweger, Logan Lerman, Christoph Waltz, Téa Leoni, Keegan-Michael Key, Beanie Feldstein, Dianne Wiest and Jermaine Fowler. They join stars Steve Martin, Martin Short, Selena Gomez and Michael Cyril Creighton.

“Only Murders in the Building” hails from co-creators and writers Steve Martin and John Hoffman (“Grace & Frankie,” “Looking”). Season five executive producers include John Hoffman, Steve Martin, Martin Short, Selena Gomez, Dan Fogelman, Jess Rosenthal, Ben Smith and JJ Philbin.

The Distillery’s Madrina Bar y Tapas has announced the appointment of Chef Carlos Zamora as its new Executive Chef

Born in Mexico City and trained at Ambrosia Culinary Center, Chef Carlos brings over 20 years of experience from celebrated restaurants and hotels across Mexico and abroad — including the three Michelin-starred Can Fabes in Spain, two Michelin-starred Pujol in Mexico City, and the Michelin Key-rated Viceroy Riviera Maya. Most recently, he led the kitchen at El Catrin in the Distillery District.

At Madrina, Chef Carlos is bringing fresh creativity and energy to the kitchen while honouring the restaurant’s Spanish roots – offering guests a renewed take on the vibrant, Catalan-inspired cuisine and lively dining experience they’ve come to know and love.

“What excites me most is the chance to evolve with Madrina – to honour its Spanish roots while bringing a new outlook into the kitchen. I want the food to express who we are, and to stay true to both tradition and innovation,” says Chef Carlos Zamora.

Menu Highlights — New Additions

-Broccolini and Smoked Romesco – Charred broccolini paired with a rich, smoky romesco sauce; a nod to Catalonia’s beloved calcotadas.
-Mejillones Tigre – Crispy, golden breaded mussels served in the shell; inspired by the coastal tapas of Galicia.
-Lubina y Lentejas – Crisp-skinned seabass over a warm lentil stew; a reflection of northern Spain’s markets where the catch of the day meets earthy flavours.
-Chocolate and Turron – Silky chocolate cream layered with soft and crunchy turron; a festive homage to Spanish holiday traditions.
-Ajillo Shrimp – Inspired by the classic Spanish gambas al ajillo, this dish features U8 shrimp sauteed with garlic and olive oil, served with black garlic emulsion, garlic foam, chives and sorrel leaves.
-Padron Peppers – A nod to La Coruña’s peppers , we use shishitos sauteed in olive oil and served with saffron aioli
-Green Apple Gazpacho – Our take on the gazpacho Andaluz, chilled green apple and almonds soup, garnished with grapes, compressed apples, and chili pearls.
-Jamon Croquetas – The classic tapa made with Jamon Joselito, the best jamon in the world

Alongside these new creations, several Madrina classics will remain on the menu, including:

-Patatas Bravas – sriracha brava sauce, wasabi aioli; add summer black truffle
-Smoked Mackerel and Ajoblanco – grapes, trout roe
-Pulpo Con Papas Alinas – smoked octopus, mojo rojo sauce, andalusian style crushed potatoes
-Steak Tartare on a Roasted Marrow Bone – egg yolk sauce, soy pearls, crispy toasts

Chef Carlos describes the menu as “a celebration of Spanish cuisine built on honest flavours, technique, and respect for the ingredients.”

On the beverage side, Madrina offers an exclusively Spanish wine program featuring nearly 100 bottles from small, artisanal producers – an evolving showcase of Spain’s diverse regions and indigenous grapes. The restaurant’s acclaimed Gin & Tonic program mirrors this dedication, presenting almost 100 gins served in traditional balloon glasses with premium tonics and botanicals. New to the cocktail menu:

Toro y Torero – a dynamic duo symbolizing the dance between bull and bullfighter. Toro blends Spanish brandy with dark fruit and spice, while Torero contrasts with bright Pisco and sparkling Cava. Together, they embody Madrina’s cocktail philosophy: rooted in Spanish tradition, driven by storytelling, and elevated through molecular mixology.

Reserve now here.

Paramount Pictures Canada x Mr. Will are thrilled to give Readers a chance to win passes to an Advance Screening of THE RUNNING MAN.

Advance screenings take place in Toronto, Montreal (English and French), Vancouver and Edmonton on Wednesday, November 12, 2025.

TORONTO

Wednesday, November 12th | 7:00PM

Scotiabank Theatre Toronto

MONTREAL

Wednesday, November 12th | 7:00PM | ENG

Cinéma Cineplex Banque Scotia

MONTREAL

Wednesday, November 12th | 7:00PM | FRE

Cineplex Cinema Starcité

VANCOUVER

Wednesday, November 12th | 7:00PM

Cineplex International Village Cinemas

EDMONTON

Wednesday, November 12th | 7:00PM

Scotiabank Theatre Edmonton

Synopsis: In a near-future society, The Running Man is the top-rated show on television—a deadly competition where contestants, known as Runners, must survive 30 days while being hunted by professional assassins, with every move broadcast to a bloodthirsty public and each day bringing a greater cash reward. Desperate to save his sick daughter, working-class Ben Richards (Glen Powell) is convinced by the show’s charming but ruthless producer, Dan Killian (Josh Brolin), to enter the game as a last resort. But Ben’s defiance, instincts, and grit turn him into an unexpected fan favorite—and a threat to the entire system. As ratings skyrocket, so does the danger, and Ben must outwit not just the Hunters, but a nation addicted to watching him fall.

To enter for a chance to win, click “like” on this Post at MR. WILL ON FACEBOOK or IG.. In the comments, tell us which City (and language) and tag 1 friend you are taking. Multiple entries allowed. You must be following.

Rules and regulations here.

Paramount Pictures Canada release THE RUNNING MAN in theatres November 14, 2025.

(Photo/video credit: Paramount Pictures Canada)

Cineplex Pictures x Mr. Will are giving Readers in Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver a chance to win passes to an Advance Screening of NOW YOU SEE ME: NOW YOU DON’T!

Did you know this partly was filmed in Toronto?

Screenings take place November 10, 2025.

TORONTO
Date: Monday, November 10
Time: 7:30 PM
Location: Scotiabank Theatre Toronto

VANCOUVER
Date: Monday, November 10
Time: 7:30 PM
Location: International Village

MONTREAL (ENGLISH SCREENING)
Date: Monday, November 10
Time: 7:00 PM
Location: Cinéma Banque Scotia

Directed by: Ruben Fleischer
Screenplay by: Seth Grahame-Smith and Michael Lesslie and Paul Wernick & Rhett Reese
Story by: Eric Warren Singer
Cast: Jesse Eisenberg, Woody Harrelson, Dave Franco, Isla Fisher, Justice Smith, Dominic Sessa, Ariana Greenblatt, with Rosamund Pike and Morgan Freeman
Synopsis: The Four Horsemen return along with a new generation of illusionists performing mind-melding twists, turns, surprises, and magic unlike anything ever captured on film.

To enter for a chance to win, click “like” on this Post at MR. WILL ON FACEBOOK, IG or X. In the comments, tell us your City and tag 1 friend you’re taking with you. You must be following.

Rules and regulations here.

Cineplex Pictures release NOW YOU SEE ME: NOW YOU DON’T in theatres November 14, 2025.

(Photo/video credit: Cineplex Pictures)

The Canadian Film Centre (CFC) is pleased to announce the Makeup Intensive has returned for a second year. This professional development and training intensive for emerging and mid-career artists is made possible with support from lead partner the Department of Canadian Heritage, program partners IATSE 873, the City of Toronto, and the J.P. Bickell Foundation, and returning program supporter CMU College of Makeup Art & Design. The initiative aims to accelerate the career paths of makeup professionals from Black, Indigenous and racialized communities and to expand the industry’s expertise in serving all skin tones. The Makeup Intensive began September 29 and runs until November 21, 2025.

This year’s five participants are Sade Small, Caroline Garant, Monica Chau, Gigi Rimsa, and Douglas Mena Espinoza.

As part of the eight-week intensive, these five talented artists will develop invaluable hands-on on-set experience and behind the scenes prep, receive coaching from experts in the field and take part in career-building opportunities with industry leaders. In addition to invaluable training and skill development, participants will have an opportunity to expand their professional creative network and learn how to navigate the business. They will collaborate and work on key CFC productions within the Norman Jewison Film Program and CBC Actors Conservatory.

“The Makeup Intensive reflects our commitment to building greater equity within the screen industry,” said maxine bailey, Executive Director, Canadian Film Centre. “This program helps break down barriers for marginalized artists, and we’re proud to continue this vital initiative, with the generous support of our new and returning partners, to help equip a new cohort of talented makeup professionals with the tools they need to thrive.”

“I am pleased to support the Canadian Film Centre’s (CFC) hands-on skills development training program, as well as their two “CFC Conversations: BIPOC Creators” events. Through this funding, our government is helping more equity-seeking artists, creators, and makeup professionals succeed and contribute to the richness of Canada’s identity, arts, and culture. Diversity is at the heart of who we are, and we are proud to help our creators share their talent with the world,” said The Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture and Minister responsible for Official Languages.

CFC’ Makeup Intensive began September 29 and runs until November 21, 2025. This program has been made possible in part by the Government of Canada.

Makeup Intensive 2025 Participants:

SADE SMALL (she/her): From a young age, she was captivated by the magic of film and the power of practical effects. Her journey began in 2020, at just 14, when she attended the Black Women in Film camp. That experience opened her eyes to the world behind the camera and sparked a deep interest in storytelling through production. A year later, she secured her first role as a production assistant, gaining hands-on experience in a fast-paced creative environment. Her passion for film continued to grow, eventually leading her to CMU, where she explored all aspects of the makeup industry. There, she refined her skills and expanded her knowledge of the craft. With a strong foundation and clear vision, she now aims to specialize in prosthetics, using her talent to champion inclusive beauty. She hopes to work with a wide range of skin tones and textures, contributing to greater diversity in film and television.

CAROLINE GARANT (she/her): Caroline Garant is a professional makeup artist and CMU alumna. She discovered her passion for makeup artistry as a career path after collaborating with peers in creative projects, such as music videos and photoshoots. She has assisted HMU in film productions. What she loves the most about her career is the creative process and thrill of seeing the results of her craft, being a small but significant part of something much bigger.

MONICA CHAU (she/her): Monica Chau is a Toronto based freelance makeup artist with over 7 years of experience in the beauty industry. Ever since buying a lime green eyeshadow from the drug store in high school, she fell in love with makeup and began practicing different makeup looks on herself everyday for school. This passion followed her into her university life, and eventually she decided to pursue it further by working at Sephora after graduating. Since then, she has had her work published in Sephora stores in nationwide campaigns across Canada. From the initial consultation to the final look, Monica’s priority is to listen and understand her client’s vision, ensuring the best possible results. Her approach combines creativity inspired by various art forms with in-depth knowledge of current makeup trends to provide a truly unique and personalized experience for her clients. From walking down the runway, to the red carpet, to down the aisle, Monica always wants her clients to look fresh, glowy and highlight their natural features. She graduated as valedictorian from the College of Makeup Art and Design with a double diploma in the Comprehensive Makeup Artist Program and the Digital Effects Artist Program.

GIGI RIMSA (she/her): Born and raised in downtown Toronto, Gigi first took an interest in makeup as a very young girl, right as she also showed a gift for anime drawing and character creation, which she habitually indulged in all day long. Her hand was confident, while her taste and esthetic instincts were far beyond her years. When YouTube emerged, she was obsessed with learning all the makeup styles demonstrated, from glam to horror to injuries. At Halloween, she excelled at doing makeup, especially monster and gore, on friends and family. Just before Covid, Gigi was enrolled at Humber College, acing several makeup and basic hair courses. Mid-Covid, she enrolled CMU and leapt into that world immediately, pulling high marks across the board. Gigi’s visual imagination knows no bounds. She’s fearlessly inventive, but without ego or pretense. She’s confident in her abilities, but not afraid to ask for help if she doesn’t know how to do something to a high standard. Her impeccable memory aids in continuity and also socially, as she never forgets people’s names or those of their kids, pets – you name it. Though initially shy around strangers, once engaged, she completely relaxes and gets on with it.

DOUGLAS MENA ESPINOZA (he/him): Douglas is a professional makeup artist with experience in theatre, film, fashion, and live performance. At the Stratford Festival, he developed expertise in period makeup and character transformations for large-scale productions. His film and television work demonstrates a strong ability to adapt techniques for on-camera performance, maintaining consistency and attention to detail under production demands. In fashion, he has worked backstage at shows, creating precise, high-impact looks that complement designer collections. He is also active in the drag community, specializing in bold, transformative artistry that emphasizes creativity and individuality.

For more information, visit cfccreates.com.