#FIRSTLOOK: HOT DOCS TED ROGERS CINEMA RESUMES PROGRAMMING RESUMES DECEMBER 4, 2024

Hot Docs Ted Rogers Cinema is delighted to unveil its December lineup, featuring an exciting collection of docs from some of the world’s most compelling filmmakers. This diverse program is set to captivate audiences with powerful stories that span a wide range of themes: from Ali Weinstein’s poignant look at the final days of Ontario Place in Your Tomorrow, to Errol Morris’ in-depth examination of the family separation crisis in the U.S. in Separated.

“We are deeply excited to reopen our cinema, where the magic of storytelling comes alive through Canadian and international films that connect with our valued audiences,” shared Heather Haynes, Hot Docs’ Director of Programming. “With a lineup of award-winning documentaries ready to inspire and engage, we invite you to share in the joy of experiencing these films on the big screen, surrounded by a community of passionate viewers. Hot Docs Ted Rogers Cinema is more than just a venue; it’s a home for our documentary family, a place where stories unite us and foster connection. We can’t wait to welcome you back for this extraordinary journey.”

To view the full December 2024 calendar, please visit www.hotdocs.ca

PREMIERES

Premiering at Hot Docs Cinema in December: Your Tomorrow, Ali Weinstein’s new film documenting the final days of Toronto’s iconic modernist waterfront park, Ontario Place.
The Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity 2024 presents the best international ads of the year on the big screen.

SERIES

Season 2024-25 of Doc Soup—Toronto’s best-loved film series showcasing premieres of the hottest documentaries fresh off the international Festival circuit, including lively post-screening Q&As with directors and other special guests—will launch on December 4 with the world premiere of Play it Loud! – How Toronto Got Soul, the little-known story of how Jamaican music became a critical part of Canadian culture. The December 4 screening will be followed by a Q&A with director Graeme Mathieson, musician Jay Douglas and producer Andrew Munger. The December 7 screening will be followed by a Q&A with director Graeme Mathieson and film subject Everton Pablo Paul. Both sessions will be moderated by Heather Haynes, Hot Docs’ Director of Programming.

For Viola, Hot Docs screening series centering Black, Indigenous, and People of Colour (BIPOC)-led stories and filmmakers, named in honour of Canadian civil rights icon Viola Desmond, returns on December 13 with a free screening of Seeking Mavis Beacon, an investigation into the disappearance of one of the most influential Black women in technology. The screening will be followed by a conversation with director Jazmin Jones and co-collaborator Olivia McKayla Ross, moderated by Toronto-based critic and curator Saffron Maeve.

Hot Docs Cinema is your one-stop destination to catch all the most talked-about docs of this awards season. The Hottest Docs series features screenings of Separated, where Academy Award-winning filmmaker Errol Morris delves into the harrowing chapter of family separations in recent American history; Daughters, which follows four young girls preparing for the first-ever father/daughter dance in a Washington, DC jail; Zurawski v Texas, a powerful story of women denied abortions joining forces with a fearless attorney to challenge the state of Texas and reclaim their rights and reproductive futures; Will & Harper, featuring Will Ferrell on a heartfelt road trip with his friend Harper after she comes out as a trans woman; Hollywoodgate, which explores the Taliban’s occupation of the Hollywood Gate complex, said to be a former CIA base in Kabul; Black Box Diaries, documenting journalist Shiori Ito’s landmark legal battle as she takes on one of Japan’s most powerful institutions to prosecute her high-profile assailant; Porcelain War, showcasing three Ukrainian artists who continue to create amidst defending Kharkiv from Russian attacks; Ernest Cole: Lost and Found, Raoul Peck’s compelling portrait of Ernest Cole, one of South Africa’s pioneering Black freelance photographers; Queendom, in which a queer, 21-year-old artist risks her life performing in surreal costumes throughout Moscow, in defiance of Russia’s anti-LGBTQ laws; and A New Kind of Wilderness, where a family embarks on a journey to live a free, untamed life on a small farm in the Norwegian forest. Select screenings include a live or pre-recorded director Q&A.

Get into the holiday spirit at Hot Docs Cinema! The 2024 Festive Favourites series will showcase cherished classics, including White Christmas, The Muppet Christmas Carol, Die Hard and a special The Polar Express PJ party. Tickets to all screenings are $7.50, except for Die Hard ($15.00) and donations of cash or non-perishable food item in support of the Spadina-Fort York Community Care are welcome. The December 14 screening of White Christmas is free for Hot Docs members.

Back to the Bloor revisits the Hot Docs Ted Rogers Cinema’s most recent previous incarnation, when from 1980-2010 it was known as the Bloor Cinema, screening multi-month holdover hits, cult and midnight movie madness and mainstay classics. In December and January, Back to the Bloor will screen Scott Pilgrim vs. The World, School of Rock, Bridget Jones’s Diary and Godzilla (1954).

SPECIAL EVENTS

Hot Docs Cinema and A24’s residency of Stop Making Sense—the “greatest concert film of all time”—returns in December, featuring some of Talking Head’s most memorable songs.

La Vie Boheme! On December 8, Hot Docs Cinema will present an electrifying sing-along screening of Rent, the Chris Columbus vibrant adaptation of Jonathan Larson’s legendary Broadway musical.
Ring in the New Year with the Dude! Hot Docs Cinema invites audiences to one of their most hallowed and wildest cinema traditions: the eight annual Dude’s New Year’s event featuring The Big Lebowski!
BTS ARMY alert! On December 27, Hot Docs Cinema presents a one-night-only screening of RM: Right People, Wrong Place, a new candid documentary that delves into the life of BTS’ leader RM as he navigates global stardom while working on his second solo album, offering an intimate glimpse into his creative journey across multiple cities.

Cinema Ticket: $15 (Members tickets from $10)*
*Unless otherwise specified.

PREMIERES

Premiere
YOUR TOMORROW
D: Ali Weinstein | Canada | 96 min | 2024
With Toronto’s iconic modernist waterfront park, Ontario Place, set to close for redevelopment, an eccentric yet lovable group of park regulars and staff members live out its last year open to the public while confronting its controversial transformation into a private spa and waterpark.

The Friday, December 6 screening will be followed by an insightful Q&A with director Ali Weinstein, producer Geoff Morrison, birder Francesca Bouaoun, activist and politician Norm Di Pasquale and professor and swimmer Steve Mann. The session will be moderated by Hot Docs’ Director of Programming, Heather Haynes.

Opens Friday, December 6

Premiere
CANNES LIONS INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL OF CREATIVITY 2024
105 min | 2024
Ads are art, and these ones will knock your socks off. Check out the best of the best of the 2024 Cannes Lions Festival. Prepare to be persuaded!
Opens Saturday, December 21

THE HOTTEST DOCS

The Hottest Docs
SEPARATED
D: Errol Morris | USA, Mexico | 93 min | 2024
Academy Award®-winning filmmaker Errol Morris incisively probes the darkest chapter in recent American history: family separations.

The Sunday, December 8 screening will be followed by a virtual Q&A with American journalist Jacob Soboroff, a regular correspondent for MSNBC and NBC News, and the author of Separated: Inside an American Tragedy. The session will be moderated by Heather Haynes, Hot Docs’ Director of Programming.

Saturday, December 7 / 2:30 PM
Sunday, December 8 / 7:00 PM

The Hottest Docs
DAUGHTERS
D: Angela Patton, Natalie Rae | USA | 108 min | 2024
Daughters follows the lives of four young girls who prepare for the first ever father/daughter dance in a jail in Washington, DC. What unfolds is an intimate portrayal of childhood that is both heartbreaking and inspiring.

WINNER – Audience Award, US Documentary, Sundance 2024; Festival Favourite, Sundance 2024; Knight Documentary Award, Miami Film Festival 2024

Saturday, December 14 / 12:00 PM

The Hottest Docs
ZURAWSKI V TEXAS
D: Maisie Crow, Abbie Perrault | USA | 98 min | 2024
A group of women denied abortions, even at the brink of death, band together with a fearless attorney to sue the state of Texas in an extraordinary effort to regain their rights and reproductive futures—not only for themselves but millions of others.

Saturday, December 14 / 6:30 PM
Sunday, December 15 / 6:00 PM

The Hottest Docs
WILL & HARPER
D: Josh Greenbaum | USA | 114 min | 2024
When Will Ferrell’s good friend Harper comes out as a trans woman, they take a road trip to bond and reintroduce Harper to the country as her true self.

Sunday, December 15 / 3:00 PM

The Hottest Docs
HOLLYWOODGATE
D: Ibrahim Nash’at | Germany, USA | 91 min | 2024
Immediately after the US withdraws from Afghanistan, the Taliban occupied the “Hollywood Gate” complex, claimed to be a former CIA base in Kabul. The Taliban finds countless aircrafts, weapons and pieces of military equipment. Over one year, HOLLYWOODGATE shows the transformation of an extremist militia into a military regime.
WINNER – Full Frame Grand Jury Award, Full Frame Documentary Film Festival 2024; Golden Eye Award, Zurich Film Festival 2023

Both screenings of the film will be followed by an insightful pre-recorded Q&A with director Ibrahim Nash’at, moderated by Hot Docs Festival Programmer Aisha Jamal.

Friday, December 20 / 9:15 PM
Sunday, December 22 / 3:00 PM

The Hottest Docs
BLACK BOX DIARIES
D: Shiori Ito | Japan, USA, UK | 104 min | 2024
Journalist Shiori Ito takes on one of the most powerful institutions in Japan to prosecute her high-profile sexual assailant in a landmark legal case. Using personal footage and hidden cameras, Ito puts it all on the line for justice.
WINNER – Human:Rights Award, CPH:DOX 2024; Special Jury Award, San Francisco International Film Festival

Saturday, December 21 / 5:30 PM
Sunday, December 22 / 6:00 PM

The Hottest Docs
PORCELAIN WAR
D: Brendan Bellomo, Slava Leontyev | Ukraine, USA, Australia | 87 min | 2024
Why would anyone craft fragile ceramics in an active war zone? Three Ukrainians, fighting as both soldiers and artists, offer up an unexpected dispatch from the front lines. Creativity combats destruction in this gorgeous Sundance Best US Documentary award-winner.
WINNER – Grand Jury Prize, Best US Documentary, Sundance 2024; Best Documentary, SIFF 2024

Friday, December 27 / 5:30 PM
Sunday, December 29 / 3:00 PM

The Hottest Docs
ERNEST COLE: LOST AND FOUND
D: Raoul Peck | France, USA | 105 min | 2024
Ernest Cole was the first Black freelance photographer in South Africa, whose early pictures laid bare the injustices of apartheid for a world audience. Cole was exiled to the US, where his experiences were far from his expectations of the American Dream.
WINNER—L’Oeil d’Or, Cannes 2024

Friday, January 3 / 6:00 PM
Sunday, January 5 / 3:30 PM

The Hottest Docs
QUEENDOM
D: Brett Story, Stephen Maing | USA | 104 min | 2024
In defiance of Russia’s anti-LGBTQ laws, a queer, 21-year-old artist risks her life performing in surreal costumes throughout Moscow. Jenna Marvin’s radical public performances blend artistry and activism in this SXSW documentary.
WINNER – CPH:DOX Next:Wave Award 2023
Saturday, January 4 / 3:00 PM
Sunday, January 5 / 6:30 PM

The Hottest Docs
A NEW KIND OF WILDERNESS
D: Silje Evensmo Jacobsen | Norway | 84 min | 2024
On a small farm in the Norwegian forest, a family seeks a wild free existence. However, after a tragic event changes everything, they are forced from their idyllic farm and into the expectations of modern society.
WINNER—Grand Jury Prize for World Cinema, Documentary, Sundance 2024

Friday, January 10 / 6:00 PM
Saturday, January 11 / 5:00 PM

The Hottest Docs
UNION
D: Brett Story, Stephen Maing | USA | 104 min | 2024
The Amazon Labor Union (ALU)—a group of current and former Amazon workers on New York City’s Staten Island—takes on one of the world’s largest and most powerful companies in the fight to unionize.

The January 11 screening will be followed by a Q&A with director Brett Story, moderated by Hot Docs’ Director of Programming, Heather Haynes.
Saturday, January 11 / 8:00 PM
Sunday, January 12 / 12:00 PM

FESTIVE FAVOURITES
Tickets: $7.50 for all films in this series except Die Hard.
Please bring a donation of cash or non-perishable food item to support Spadina-Fort York Community Care.

Festive Favourites
WHITE CHRISTMAS
D: Michael Curtiz | USA | 120 min | 1954
A successful song-and-dance team (Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye) become romantically involved with a sister act (Rosemary Clooney and Vera-Ellen) and team up to save the failing Vermont inn of their former commanding general.

Saturday, December 14 / 3:15 PM
*Free for members

Festive Favourites
THE MUPPET CHRISTMAS CAROL
D: Brian Henson | USA | 85 min | 1992
The Muppets’ rendition of Charles Dickens’ classic tale puts a unique twist on that fateful Christmas Eve, when Scrooge is visited by the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future.

Sunday, December 15 / 12:00 PM

Festive Favourites
THE POLAR EXPRESS – PJ PARTY
D: Robert Zemeckis | USA | 99 min | 2004
When a doubting young boy takes a train ride to the North Pole, he embarks on a journey of self-discovery that shows him that the wonder of life never fades for those who believe.

Friday, December 20 / 6:30 PM

Festive Favourites
DIE HARD
D: John McTiernan | USA | 131 min | 1988
Die Hard is an iconic 1980s action movie starring Bruce Willis as a rogue cop who must save a building full of hostages shortly before Christmas.
Saturday, December 21 / 9:00 PM

BACK TO THE BLOOR
Tickets: $7.50

Back to the Bloor
SCOTT PILGRIM VS. THE WORLD
D: Edgar Wright | USA, UK, Canada, Japan | 112 min | 2010
In a magically realistic version of Toronto, a young man must defeat his new girlfriend’s seven evil exes one by one in order to win her heart.
Saturday, December 28 / 9:00 PM

Back to the Bloor
SCHOOL OF ROCK
D: Richard Linklater | USA | 108 min | 2003
After being kicked out of his rock band, Dewey Finn becomes a substitute teacher of an uptight elementary private school, only to try and turn his class into a rock band.

Sunday, December 29 / 12:00 PM

Back to the Bloor
BRIDGET JONES’S DIARY
D: Sharon Maguire | UK | 96 min | 2001
Bridget Jones is determined to improve herself while she looks for love in a year in which she keeps a personal diary.

Friday, January 3 / 9:00 PM

Back to the Bloor
GODZILLA (1954)
D: Ishirō Honda | Japan | 98 min | 1954
Underwater hydrogen bomb testing awakens a fire-breathing monster from its centuries-long sleep, and it soon starts to terrorise Japan.
Saturday, January 4 / 9:00 PM

SPECIAL EVENTS

Doc Soup
DOC SOUP: PLAY IT LOUD! – HOW TORONTO GOT SOUL
D: Graeme Mathieson | Canada | 85 min | 2023
The little-known story of how Jamaican music became a critical and unlikely part of Canadian culture.
Recipient of Hot Docs-Slaight Family Fund.

The Wednesday, December 4 screening will be followed by a Q&A with director Graeme Mathieson, musician Jay Douglas and producer Andrew Munger. The Saturday, December 7 screening will be followed by a Q&A with director Graeme Mathieson and film subject Everton Pablo Paul. Both sessions will be moderated by Heather Haynes, Hot Docs’ Director of Programming.

Wednesday, December 4 / 6:30 PM
Saturday, December 7 / 8:00 PM
*Doc Soup Subscribers and Streaming Pass holders can view online starting Thursday, December 5, in an exclusive 4-day streaming window. During this time, the film will be available on the watch.hotdocs.ca portal. Please sign in with your email and password.

Special Event
RENT SING-ALONG
D: Chris Columbus | USA | 135 min | 2005
In New York City’s gritty East Village, a group of bohemians strive for success and acceptance while enduring the obstacles of poverty, illness and the AIDS epidemic.

Sunday, December 8 / 3:15 PM

For Viola
FOR VIOLA: SEEKING MAVIS BEACON (FREE SCREENING)
D: Jazmin Jones | USA | 102 min | 2024
Mavis Beacon Teaches Typing taught millions globally how to type, but the software’s Haitian-born cover model vanished decades ago. Two detectives search for Beacon, revealing questions about identity and AI along the way.

The screening will be followed by a lively conversation with director Jazmin Jones and co-collaborator Olivia McKayla Ross, moderated by Toronto-based critic and curator Saffron Maeve.

Friday, December 13 / 7:00 PM
*While this screening is presented free of charge, please consider a donation of $10 in recognition of the value of the work presented, and in honour of Viola Desmond, featured on the $10 banknote, at checkout. Half the proceeds will be shared directly with the filmmakers, who also receive screening fees.

Special Event
RM: RIGHT PEOPLE, WRONG PLACE
D: Seok-jun Lee | South Korea | 80 min | 2024
A candid documentary that delves into the life of BTS’ leader RM as he navigates global stardom while working on his second solo album, offering an intimate glimpse into his creative journey across multiple cities.

Friday, December 27 / 9:00 PM
*Doors will open one hour early at the Friday, December 27 screening for a BTS fan meetup.

Special Event
STOP MAKING SENSE – A24 RESIDENCY
D: Jonathan Demme | USA | 88 min | 1984
Newly restored in 4K to coincide with its 40th anniversary, this 1984 film is considered by many critics to be the greatest concert film of all time and is a long-held institution at the Hot Docs/Bloor Cinema. Shot over the course of three nights at Hollywood’s Pantages Theater in December of 1983, Stop Making Sense also features some of Talking Heads’ most memorable songs.

Saturday, December 28 / 5:30 PM

Special Event
THE BIG LEBOWSKI: THE DUDE’S NEW YEAR
D: Ethan Coen, Joel Coen | USA, UK | 117 min | 1998
Join us for one of our most hallowed and wildest cinema traditions: the eight annual Dude’s New Year’s event featuring The Big Lebowski!

Tuesday, December 31 / 8:00 PM
*Tickets: $20 (Members: $15)

#FIRSTLOOK: “WALLACE & GROMIT: VENGEANCE MOST FOWL” TRAILER

Netflix‘s WALLACE & GROMIT: VENGEANCE MOST FOWL arrives January 3, 2025 globally! Here’s a brand new Trailer for the Animated Feature!

Synopsis:
Aardman’s four-time Academy Award®-winning director Nick Park and Emmy Award-nominated Merlin Crossingham return with a brand new epic adventure, Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl. In this next installment, Gromit’s concern that Wallace is becoming too dependent on his inventions proves justified, when Wallace invents a “smart” gnome that seems to develop a mind of its own. When it emerges that a vengeful figure from the past might be masterminding things, it falls to Gromit to battle sinister forces and save his master… or Wallace may never be able to invent again!

#FIRSTLOOK: HARBOURFRONT CENTRE UNVEIL WINTER 2024/2025 PROGRAMMING

Harbourfront Centre is delighted to kick off the winter season with the inaugural tree lighting ceremony and the highly anticipated return of skating.

The season launches with a tree lighting gathering at the Public Square on Friday, November 29, from 6 p.m. onwards, with the tree lighting at 7 p.m. It will feature an immersive performance by FreePlay — the musical duo of internationally recognized vocalists, Suba Sankaran and Dylan Bell — who will bring their unique blend of technical brilliance and rich, multicultural storytelling to classic holiday tunes for attendees to enjoy.

The 30-foot tree will be the centrepiece of Winterfest Toronto, a holiday market in partnership with Street Eats running on weekends from November 29 to January 5, complete with hot chocolate, gløgg (mulled wine) at the The Uller House, train rides for kids, music, a holiday food market and marketplace, an urban tree lot and Santa’s mailbox for children to drop off those special letters.

Harbourfront Centre is also pleased to announce the return of the ice rink and skating with complimentary skate rentals on Saturdays, thanks to the Waterfront BIA. Opening Saturday, December 21 and continuing through March, visitors and neighbours can enjoy picturesque lakefront skating, which also includes fire pits, and DJ Skate Nights on Saturdays, making it a perfect backdrop for quality time with loved ones.

“There’s nothing more magical than carving memories into the ice, surrounded by the iconic skyline that makes Torontonians proud to call this city home. We are delighted that ice skating has returned to Harbourfront Centre as it evokes a sense of nostalgia while providing a foundation for fresh festive programming,” said Cathy Loblaw, CEO of Harbourfront Centre. “We are grateful for the support from the City of Toronto and Deputy Mayor, Ausma Malik, and look forward to watching residents and visitors embrace winter at Harbourfront Centre.”

Bringing families together, Harbourfront Centre is excited to welcome the Ontario Science Centre’s popular KidSpark, the dynamic learn-through-play space for kids ages 10 and under. Running December 4 to May 4, KidSpark will offer the Centre’s science-packed, family-friendly fun filled with hands-on exploration and discovery. Shop in a pretend supermarket, take a simulated fishing trip with Ontario wildlife and get stuffed animals X-rayed in an imaginary office, plus some new surprises.  

“We are proud to partner with Toronto’s premiere science museum to bring fan favourites to Harbourfront Centre,” said Loblaw. “There is real chemistry with this partnership, and our campus is an ideal gathering place for the community to experience the richness of arts, culture and now, science. We couldn’t be more excited to welcome them to the heart of the waterfront.”

This February also marks the 30th anniversary of Harbourfront Centre’s legacy program, KUUMBA and KUUMBA 365, Toronto’s largest and longest-running Black Futures festival. Presented by TD Bank Group through its Corporate Citizenship platform, the TD Ready Commitment, the festival presents a vibrant, multidisciplinary programming lineup of free and ticketed events. From live dance and musical performances to engaging panel discussions and wellness workshops, KUUMBA30 (February 1-28) will spark dialogue honouring Black culture’s richness and diversity, showcasing the creativity, talent and stories that shape the community.

With support from the Government of Canada and the City of Toronto, Harbourfront Centre continues to honour its landmark 50th anniversary. Its 2024/2025 winter programming aims to extend the celebrations into the holidays, inviting people to come together and revel in the season’s magic.

A complete list of winter programming highlights can be found below. To learn more and purchase tickets, please visit  HarbourfrontCentre.com/winter. 

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Harbourfront Centre winter programming highlights

Winterfest Toronto

November 29 – January 5, West Campus and Public Square

Join us this festive season at Harbourfront Centre’s new holiday market, Winterfest Toronto, brought to you by Street Eats Market. Enjoy sparkling lights, tasty food offerings, mulled wine, S’Mores, a 30-foot Christmas tree, hand-crafted one-of-a-kind gifts and more! Winterfest will be open Fridays 6 to 10 p.m.; Saturdays 12 p.m. to 10 p.m. and Sundays 12 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Tree Lighting

November 29, Public Square

Celebrate the spirit of the season and the lighting of our 30-foot holiday tree: the centrepiece in Public Square! Capture your ‘Instagram-able’ moments with the Toronto skyline in the background or go inside the tree for an extra-special photo op!

Urban Tree Lot

November 29 – December 22, North Orchard

Our urban tree lot will have a vibrant selection of holiday trees for purchase. Enjoy the aroma of fresh pine and the sweet scents of hot cocoa as you select the perfect tree to adorn your home this holiday season.

Marketplace

November 29 – December 22, Lakeside Terrace

Shop for everyone on your list at the Marketplace. Full of local art and craft items, you will surely find that perfect gift. The market is held every Saturday and Sunday leading up to the holidays.

The Uller House

November 29 – January 5, Food Lab Patio

Celebrate holiday cheer and enjoy a hot cup of gløgg (mulled wine) at our Scandinavian-inspired indoor/outdoor bar. Embrace the crisp winter air, wrap yourself up in a cozy blanket and enjoy good company in this charming winter retreat.

KidSpark at HARBOURFRONT CENTRE

Ontario Science Centre Experiences December 4 – May 4, Harbourfront Centre

Created for children ages 10 and under, this learn-through play experience features fun and interactive exhibits that encourage hands-on exploration and discovery, playful learning and introduces even the youngest visitors to the incredible world of STEM.

Return of the Rink

December 21 – March 16, West Lawn

Skate under the open winter sky on a new and improved layout, plus plenty of free family and friend’s events throughout the season, including free skate rentals for children 12 and under. In partnership with the Waterfront Business Improvement Area (BIA).

DJ Skate Nights

December 21 – February 15, Stage in the Park

It’s a skating dance party! Head to Harbourfront Centre on Saturday nights until February 15 and enjoy skating along to beats spun by some of Toronto’s hottest DJs. Admission is free and is fun for all ages.

New Year’s Eve Fireworks

December 31, Public Square

Countdown to 2025 with the City of Toronto’s brilliant fireworks display. The 10-minute show will be synchronized to music for a high-altitude light fest all along the waterfront.

KUUMBA30

Feb 1 – 28, various Harbourfront Centre venues

This year, KUUMBA celebrates its 30th anniversary with live music, movement, dance, theatre, a symposium and workshops to celebrate the vitality of Toronto’s African and Caribbean communities and the works of emerging and innovative Canadian artists. Presented by TD Bank Group through the Bank’s Corporate Citizenship platform, the TD Ready Commitment.

#TRAVEL: BOOKING.COM PRESENT 2024 BLACK FRIDAY DEALS

This year is Booking.com’s biggest Black Friday yet!

Whether you’re looking to rent a cozy home in the mountains or stay in a beachside resort in any of more than 175,000 destinations, rent a car in any of 145 countries, or find a great experience (tours, activities, theme parks, and much more) in over 1,800 cities, there’s plenty of savings for everyone.

From November 21 through December 4, exclusively on Booking.com, travellers can save:

Up to 50% off accommodations
Up to 25% off rental cars
Up to 20% off attractions

Booking.com’s Black Friday deals can be found at https://www.booking.com/dealspage.html (Black Friday landing page will be live starting November 21; Until then, this link leads to the deals page.)

Black Friday Deals are available on reservations made between November 21 and December 4. Accommodation and rental car deals are valid through December 31, 2025. Attractions deals are valid on all bookable tickets on the site, available up to 90 days from the date of booking.

#FIRSTLOOK: “ZERO DAY” COMING FEBRUARY 2025 TO NETFLIX

ZERO DAY arrives FEBRUARY 20, 2025 only on Netflix. What a Cast!

ABOUT ZERO DAY:
ZERO DAY is a limited series starring Robert De Niro as respected former U.S. President George Mullen, who, as head of the Zero Day Commission, is charged with finding the perpetrators of a devastating cyber attack that has caused chaos around the country and thousands of fatalities. As disinformation runs rampant and the personal ambition of power brokers in technology, Wall Street, and government collide, Mullen’s unwavering search for the truth forces him to confront his own dark secrets while risking all he holds dear.

ZERO DAY is written and executive produced by Eric Newman and Noah Oppenheim, with Lesli Linka Glatter as executive producer and director of all six episodes. Michael S. Schmidt also serves as writer and executive producer, with Robert De Niro and Jonathan Glickman as executive producers. Starring Robert De Niro, Angela Bassett, Lizzy Caplan, Jesse Plemons, Joan Allen, Connie Britton, Matthew Modine, Dan Stevens, Bill Camp, Gaby Hoffmann, and Clark Gregg.

Release Date: February 20, 2025
Episodes: 6 episodes x 1 hour (limited series)
Co-Creators / Co-Showrunners / Writers / Executive Producers: Eric Newman, Noah Oppenheim
Co-Creator / Executive Producer: Michael S. Schmidt
Director / Executive Producer: Lesli Linka Glatter
Executive Producer: Jonathan Glickman
Star/Executive Producer: Robert De Niro
Starring: Angela Bassett, Lizzy Caplan, Jesse Plemons, Joan Allen, Connie Britton, Matthew Modine
Guest Starring: Bill Camp, Dan Stevens, Gaby Hoffmann, Clark Gregg, McKinley Belcher III

#FIRSTLOOK: NEW TRAILER FOR “DREAM PRODUCTIONS”

Pixar Animation Studios’ all-new series “Dream Productions” returns to Riley’s mind, where dreams really do come true—every night, on time and on budget. Check out the new trailer, images and key art, which are available to download and share. Taking place in between the events of “Inside Out” and “Inside Out 2,” all four episodes of the limited series come to the streamer beginning Dec. 11, 2024. Riley is growing up and when her memories need some extra processing, Joy and the rest of the Core Emotions send them to Dream Productions. Acclaimed director Paula Persimmon (voice of Paula Pell) faces a nightmare of her own: Trying to create the next hit dream after being paired up with Xeni (voice of Richard Ayoade), a smug daydream director looking to step up into the big leagues of night dreams.

Also featuring the voices of Amy Poehler, Maya Rudolph, Ally Maki, Kensington Tallman, Liza Lapira, Tony Hale, Lewis Black and Phyllis Smith, the hilarious, mockumentary-style series is written and directed by Mike Jones and produced by Jaclyn Simon. Featuring score by composer Nami Melumad, the soundtrack for “Dream Productions” will be available on all streaming services beginning Dec. 20, 2024.

#FIRSTLOOK: “POP CULTURE JEOPARDY!”

Today, Prime Video released the official trailer and key art for the highly-anticipated new series Pop Culture Jeopardy!, which will premiere Wednesday, December 4, 2024 on Prime Video with three episodes, followed by three new episodes weekly. The 40-episode Amazon MGM Studios Original series, hosted by Colin Jost, will be available exclusively on Prime Video in the US, UK, Mexico/LATAM, Spain, Australia, and New Zealand. The new show will be part of Prime Video’s Winning Wednesdays programming, joining a fun-filled lineup that includes Are You Smarter Than A Celebrity?, Buy It Now, and Amazon Wish List Games.

Pop Culture Jeopardy! Is a brand-new twist on the classic quiz show’s “answer-and-question” format that combines the academic rigor of Jeopardy! with the excitement and unpredictability of pop culture. Contestants, playing in teams of three, will need to be experts in categories from Alternative Rock to The Avengers; Broadway to MMA; Gen Z to Zendaya as they compete in a tournament-style event for the grand prize of $300,000 and ultimate bragging rights.

Pop Culture Jeopardy! is produced by Sony Pictures Television for Prime Video. Eight-time Emmy® Award winner, Michael Davies, serves as executive producer.

#FIRSTLOOK: “DOPE THIEF” ARRIVES MARCH 14, 2025 ON APPLE TV+

Apple TV+ today unveiled a first-look at “Dope Thief,” its new, eight-episode crime drama created and executive produced by Academy Award-nominee Peter Craig (“The Batman” and “Top Gun: Maverick”), executive produced by Academy Award-nominee Ridley Scott (“Gladiator,” “The Martian,” “Blade Runner”) who also directs the first episode, and starring Academy Award-nominee Brian Tyree Henry (“Atlanta,” “Causeway,” “Bullet Train,”), who also serves as executive producer. “Dope Thief” makes its global debut on Apple TV+ with the first two episodes on Friday, March 14, 2025 followed by new episodes every Friday through April 25.

Based on Dennis Tafoya’s book of the same name, the series follows long-time Philly friends and delinquents who pose as DEA agents to rob an unknown house in the countryside, only to have their small-time grift become a life-and-death enterprise, as they unwittingly reveal and unravel the biggest hidden narcotics corridor on the Eastern seaboard.

The ensemble cast starring alongside Emmy and Tony nominee Henry includes Wagner Moura (“Narcos,” “Civil War”), Marin Ireland (“The Umbrella Academy,” “Sneaky Pete”), Kate Mulgrew (“Star Trek: Prodigy,” “The Magnificent Meyersons,”), Nesta Cooper (“See”), Amir Arison (“The Blacklist”), and Golden Globe-winner Ving Rhames (“Mission: Impossible franchise”).

“Dope Thief” hails from Apple Studios, and is a Scott Free Production. The series is executive produced by Craig alongside Scott, as well as David W. Zucker, Richard Heus, Henry, Jordan Sheehan, Clayton Krueger and Jennifer Wiley-Moxley.

Apple TV+ offers premium, compelling drama and comedy series, feature films, groundbreaking documentaries, and kids and family entertainment, and is available to watch across all your favourite screens. After its launch on November 1, 2019, Apple TV+ became the first all-original streaming service to launch around the world, and has premiered more original hits and received more award recognitions faster than any other streaming service in its debut. To date, Apple Original films, documentaries and series have earned 523 wins and 2,374 award nominations and counting, including multi-Emmy Award-winning comedy “Ted Lasso” and historic Oscar Best Picture winner “CODA.”

#TIFF: HOLIDAY 2024 GIFT IDEAS FROM TIFF

TIFF present gift ideas to inspire shoppers this holiday season – whether they’re looking to gift an experience, spend time with a loved one, find a unique item for the hard-to-shop-for person on their list, or looking for a new stocking stuffer idea – TIFF has something for everyone on your list.

Varda Café-Bar Gift Card

A perfect gift for any cinephile to treat themselves to a pre/post film cocktail and bite! TIFF gift cards can be purchased in-person at our Box Office, for any amount, and may be used for in-person purchases at Varda

Café-Bar, the Box Office, Concessions, or the TIFF Shop. Menu, hours, location: https://tiff.net/varda

The perfect gift for: the social butterfly, the cocktail and conversation enthusiast, the film lover, the foodie, the office bestie

TIFF Lightbox gift cards

TIFF Lightbox gift cards are available for purchase in-person at our Box Office. Gift cards may be purchased for any denomination and may be used for in-person purchases at TIFF’s Box Office, Concessions, or TIFF Shop.

Give the film lovers in your life a night at the movies or stuff their stockings with a gift card to cover their TIFF tix and concessions obsessions.

More details: https://tiff.net/ticket-pricing

Perfect gift for: the film lover, the office bestie, the kids of all ages, the family gift exchange, the stocking stuffer

Give the gift of film! With our special BOGO Membership offer, buy one TIFF Membership and get one FREE to gift to a friend. Share the experience of unforgettable films all year long, including free tickets, pre-sales,

Festival perks, and TIFF Lightbox discounts. It’s our best deal of the year! Pays for itself in as few as four visits. More details: https://tiff.net/membership (a dedicated BOGO Membership page will be active on Nov 29) The perfect gift for: the film lover, the event attender, your BFF that you want to spend more time with in 2025!

TIFF 50/50 tickets

Support film and you could win! One blockbuster jackpot, 18 weekly early bird prizes including $10,000 in cash and almost $20,000 in one-of-a-kind experiences. Licensed by the AGCO, 50% of the pot goes to the winner,

50% supports TIFF. Ticket bundles start at just $10. Makes a great gift! More details: tiff5050.net (link will be active end of November) Perfect gift for: yourself, the film lover, the lucky one

TIFF Shop Gift Ideas

Having trouble finding the perfect gift? Stop by the TIFF Shop for Official TIFF merchandise and curated products for the film lover in your life! The TIFF Shop has rounded up a list of unique items available in-store located inside TIFF Lightbox (350 King Street West, Toronto, ON) and online at tiff.net/shop for ordering from the comfort of home.

TIFF Pedro Almodovar Mug

Introducing the TIFF Pedro Almodovar Mug. Featuring an exclusive design and TIFF logo on the back. Dishwasher safe for everyday use, holding 11 oz.

More details: https://shop.tiff.net/products/pedro-almodovar-mug Price: $24.00 Perfect gift for: the film lover, the coffee/tea/hot cocoa addict, the cult cinema fan

Calcifer Kitchen Tool Spatula

Take your kitchen arsenal to the next level with the Calcifer Kitchen Tool Spatula! With this spatula inspired by Howl’s Moving Castle’s beloved character, you can easily remove tough messes. Say hello to effortless cooking!

More details: https://shop.tiff.net/products/calcifer-kitchen-tool-spatula Price: $31.00

Perfect gift for: the Studio Ghibli fan, the stocking stuffer, the person who has everything, the young-at-heart one, the at-home chef, the foodie

Midsommar Screenplay Book

The Midsommar (Screenplay) features an introduction by Park Chan-wook, an essay by anthropologist Matthew Engelke, and an illustrated Hårga choral primer by vocal artist Jessika Kenney.

More details: https://shop.tiff.net/products/midsommar-screenplay Price: $90.00 Perfect gift for: the film lover, the A24 aficionado, the student of cinema

Movie Tarot Cards

by Diana McMahon Collis (Author), Natalie Foss (Illustrator) Are you ready for your close-up? Be guided by the stars in this unique new tarot deck inspired by iconic film characters. Each character embodies the qualities of the archetype they represent. Movie Tarot contains 78 cards that work as a fully functional tarot deck, plus a booklet which explains the choice of movie stars and the deeper personality traits they embody, as well as information on how to interpret the cards and conduct your own readings.

More details: https://shop.tiff.net/products/movie-tarot-a-heros-journey-in-78-cards Price: $26.99

Perfect gift for: the tarot enthusiast, gift exchanges, the film lover, the stocking stuffer

Studio Ghlbli Towel

Studio Ghibli charm comes alive in your home with the Small White Totoro Marushin Silhouette Bath Towel. Featuring a plush texture, this towel is sure to add a touch of fun to your bathroom. Complete the set with our matching face towel!

More details: https://shop.tiff.net/products/small-white-totoro-marushin-silhouette-bath-towel Price: $67.00 Perfect gift for: the Studio Ghibli fan, the person who has everything, the film lover, the

TIFF Baggu Bag

It’s here -your new favourite bag for style and functionality, the Baggu Duck Bag. Fits a 15″ laptop with 40″ adjustable strap and top carry handles.

More details: https://shop.tiff.net/products/member-exclusive-baggu-duck-bag-2-colours Price: $60.00 Perfect gift for: the person who has everything

TIFF Clip Label Toque

Our cozy new headpiece has an adjustable cuff with a 12″ knit. 100% Acrylic. More details: https://shop.tiff.net/products/tiff-toque Price: $32.00 Perfect gift for: the film lover, the hiker

TIFF Crewneck

Get cozy in our stylish logo crewneck fleece. 50/50 combed ring spun cotton/polyester.

More details: https://shop.tiff.net/products/tiff-logo-crewneck Price: $59.00 Perfect gift for: the film lover

TIFF Ornament

Add a little sparkle as you show off your love of film with a TIFF-branded ornament on your tree!

More details: https://shop.tiff.net/ Perfect gift for: the film lover, the stocking stuffer, the holiday party host

TIFF24 Hat

Our #TIFF24 Hat (3 colours) features our classic “Toronto International Film Festival” embroidered on the front. An adjustable strap and unstructured cotton provide a perfect fit.

More details: https://shop.tiff.net/products/tiff24-hat Price: $36.00 Perfect gift for: the film lover, the person who has everything

VHS Ornament

Be kind, rewind! This nostalgic hand-blown glass VHS tape captures all the charm of the original, complete with a hand-painted slipcase and a playful “do not tape over” sticker. It’s the ideal gift for anyone who cherishes physical media. Each ornament is beautifully packaged in a custom box featuring a retro holiday design that’s too lovely to conceal with wrapping paper.

More details: https://shop.tiff.net/products/vhs-christmas-ornament Price: $26.00

Perfect gift for: the film lover, the stocking stuffer, the retro collector

All prices are in CAD. Visit tiff.net/shop to discover more gift ideas and exclusive items from fan-favourite films.

Shipping Info

• Recommended shipping deadlines to prioritize arrival by December 25:
  • ○ December 14 (North America)
  • ○ December 10 (Canada)
• TIFF Shop delivery is at the discretion of a third-party courier and cannot guarantee exact arrival dates. For more information, visit https://shop.tiff.net/pages/shipping-returns

**In light of the Canada Post strike, customers can expect longer than normal wait times for order delivery. Once the strike has ended, we will return to our regular estimated delivery timelines, as outlined in the link.

#FIRSTLOOK: NEW TRAILER FOR “ALIEN: EARTH”

Today, Disney+ unveiled the new teaser and key art for the highly anticipated Original series, FX’s “Alien: Earth,” from creator Noah Hawley. “Alien: Earth” is set to stream exclusively on Disney+ in 2025 in Canada.

Trailer here.

When a mysterious space vessel crash-lands on Earth, a young woman and a ragtag group of tactical soldiers make a fateful discovery that puts them face-to-face with the planet’s greatest threat in the sci-fi horror series “Alien: Earth.” As members of the crash recovery crew search for survivors among the wreckage, they encounter mysterious predatory life forms more terrifying than they could have ever imagined. With this new threat unlocked, the search crew must fight for survival and what they choose to do with this discovery could change planet Earth as they know it.

Lead by Sydney Chandler, the series showcases an expansive international cast which includes Alex Lawther, Timothy Olyphant, Essie Davis, Samuel Blenkin, Babou Ceesay, David Rysdahl, Adrian Edmondson, Adarsh Gourav, Jonathan Ajayi, Erana James, Lily Newmark, Diem Camille and Moe Bar-El.