#FIRSTLOOK: “HOOKUP” COMING TO SECOND CITY

Forget awkward dating apps and overpriced dinners—this show is the ultimate antidote to the dating blues. The smash-hit comedy HOOKUP is back, and it’s the ultimate interactive experience.

This fully improvised romantic comedy takes the quirks, crushes, and turn-ons of real audience members and spins them into a one-of-a-kind love story. You’ll hook up, break up, live the single life, and fall in love all over again without ever leaving your seat.

Directed by Paul Bates (The Second City, Dan For Mayor), HOOKUP boasts an all-star lineup of Toronto’s funniest comedians, including Christy Bruce (Schitt’s Creek), Alastair Forbes (Join Canada, Eh!), Natalie Metcalfe (The Second City), Aurora Browne (Baroness Von Sketch Show), Jan Caruana (Because News), Sharjil Rasool (Run the Burbs), and Kris Siddiqi (The Boys). With technical wizardry by Seann Murray (Sex T-Rex), this show is a comedic rollercoaster you won’t want to miss.

Looking for love, laughter, or just a fun night with your crew? HOOKUP delivers all the excitement of a first date, minus the awkward silences. So grab your friends, or come solo—you never know who you might meet.

This show is the perfect way to spend your Sunday night. Get your tickets now and make your night one to remember!

HOOKUP live at The Second City
September 21 and October 19
7:30 PM
1 York Street, Toronto

For tickets and information, visit https://www.secondcity.com/shows/toronto/hookup-tor

About The Second City

The Second City is a world-renowned comedy institution known for its groundbreaking work in improvisation and sketch comedy. With a legacy of nurturing top comedic talent, The Second City continues to produce innovative and hilarious shows for audiences worldwide.

#FIRSTLOOK: “SMURFS” ARRIVES SEPTEMBER 16, 2025 ON PARAMOUNT+

Paramount+ announced today that the delightful, family-friendly adventure SMURFS, from Paramount Animation, will arrive on the service on September 16, 2025 in Canada and the U.S.

Hailed as “a great film for the whole family to enjoy” (Jade Carmen Davie / CLICK AND TELL PODCAST), SMURFS blends humor with wholesome, high-stakes fun and follows the beloved characters as they team up to face epic challenges with heart, courage, and comedy.

In SMURFS, Smurfette (Rihanna) leads the crew on a daring rescue mission to save Papa Smurf (John Goodman) after he is mysteriously kidnapped by the evil wizards, Razamel and Gargamel. The Smurfs team up with new friends on an epic adventure that takes them into the real world, where they discover that their true destiny is to save the universe.

The film features an all-star voice cast including Rihanna, James Corden, Nick Offerman, JP Karliak, Daniel Levy, Amy Sedaris, Natasha Lyonne, Sandra Oh, Jimmy Kimmel, Octavia Spencer, Nick Kroll, Hannah Waddingham, Alex Winter, Maya Erskine, with Kurt Russell and John Goodman.

SMURFS joins additional titles in the franchise available on Paramount+, where subscribers with a penchant for the powder blue pint-sized pals can check out The Smurfs and The Smurfs 2, which feature Neil Patrick Harris and Jayma Mays in live-action roles alongside Hank Azaria as a curmudgeonous Gargamel.

Additionally, Paramount+ is the go-to streaming service for a never-ending offering of family-friendly entertainment, including iconic series like SpongeBob SquarePants and Paw Patrol, as well as blockbusters in the SONIC THE HEDGEHOG and TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES universes.

Paramount Animation Presents in association with Domain Entertainment a Ty Ty and Jay Brown Production: SMURFS, executive Produced by Pete Chiappetta, Anthony Tittanegro, Andrew Lary. Produced by Jay Brown, Ty Ty Smith, Robyn Rihanna Fenty and Ryan Harris, p.g.a. SMURFS is based on the characters and works of Peyo, written by Pam Brady and directed by Chris Miller.

SMURFS is rated PG for action, language and some rude humor.

#FIRSTLOOK: ROBBIE AMELL’S “CODE 8: TALES OF LINCOLN CITY, VOL. 1” FIRST 10 PAGES NOW AVAILABLE

The first 10 pages (the full prologue) of the upcoming Robbie Amell graphic novel, Code 8: Tales of Lincoln City, Vol. 1, are now available as a free download exclusively through the Indiegogo campaign page. This early preview gives fans their first look at the story and artwork from breakout Hellboy artist Alex Nieto, legendary DC/Marvel cover artist Raúl Allen, and visionary X-Men graphic designer Tom Muller, as the campaign heads into its final stretch on Indiegogo.

The campaign is being managed by Collective Digital, the same team behind the record-breaking Code 8 Indiegogo film campaign in 2019, which raised $3.4M and became one of the platform’s biggest successes.

Additional details:

The gritty sci-fi universe of the Code 8 films is expanding from screen to page with the launch of the graphic novel, Code 8: Tales of Lincoln City, Vol. 1. To officially introduce this new installment in the Code 8 saga, star and producer Robbie Amell (Upload, The Flash, Code 8) will make a special appearance at FAN EXPO Canada in Toronto on Saturday, Aug. 23. Fans will get an exclusive first look at the artwork, story direction, and hear behind-the-scenes insights during a highly anticipated Code 8 panel.

Code 8: Tales of Lincoln City is being brought to life through a crowdfunding campaign, launching tomorrow, Saturday, Aug. 23, on Indiegogo.com. Fans looking to get in on the action early can sign up now and receive an exclusive discount on a signed hardcover of the graphic novel.

Connor Reed as depicted in the new graphic novel Code 8: Tales of Lincoln City

Created by Robbie Amell, Stephen Amell, Jeff Chan, and Chris Paré, the Code 8 franchise began as a short film in 2016 and quickly grew into a fan-fuelled phenomenon. Its 2019 Indiegogo campaign raised over $3.4 million, making it the platform’s second-biggest film project ever, and sparked a passionate global following for its grounded, unflinching take on a superpowered underclass. That groundbreaking campaign was run by the team now known as Collective Digital, who are reuniting with the creators to launch this next chapter and once again put fans at the heart of the story.

“Code 8 has always felt bigger than just a film,” said Robbie Amell. “Getting to tell my character’s origin story as a graphic novel is such a full-circle moment for me. And the best part is, we get to do it alongside the fans who made this world a reality.”

“With Code 8: Tales of Lincoln City, we’re not just telling a single story – this is the launch of a new era that expands the Code 8 universe far beyond the screen,” said director and co-creator Jeff Chan. “The graphic novel opens the door to new characters, deeper histories, and untold stories. It’s the first step in a much bigger journey for both the series and its fans,” said writer and producer Chris Paré.

“At Indiegogo, we celebrate creators who dare to bring bold visions to life. The success of the Code 8 campaign helped redefine what’s possible for independent original storytelling,” said Julie dePontbriand, CEO, Indiegogo. “We’re proud to back that momentum with Code 8: Tales of Lincoln City and continue empowering the fans to help shape the future of the franchise.”

Featuring breakout Hellboy artist Alex Nieto, legendary DC/Marvel cover artist Raúl Allen, and visionary X-Men graphic designer Tom Muller, the series is written by Tom Selenow, with creative oversight from the original Code 8 filmmakers. Code 8: Tales of Lincoln City, is the first volume in a must-read graphic novel series that explores the origin stories of Connor, key characters from the film, and Lincoln City itself.

Fans who back the campaign will have access to exclusive perks, including:

Digital, softcover, and hardcover versions of the graphic novel, only available through the campaign

Comics and trading cards signed by Robbie Amell

Their name immortalized in the credits of the comic

Their likeness drawn into the comic as a citizen of Lincoln City

#NEWMUSIC: EL MOCAMBO LAUNCHES “MUSIC THAT MOVES” CONCERT SERIES

The legendary El Mocambo is turning up the volume on philanthropy with Music That Moves, a new concert series supporting Canadian charities. The series launches October 16, 2025 with Canadian rock icons Loverboy, with funds raised from opening night supporting the highest priority needs at SickKids.

Future editions of Music That Moves will spotlight world-class talent while raising funds for a range of Canadian causes, combining unforgettable nights of live music with meaningful community impact.

“SickKids has a special place in the hearts of Canadians,” said Dr. Shilpa Madon, Director of Philanthropy at El Mocambo. “This series is about bringing people together through music and giving back.”

With only 350 spots available, fans will experience Loverboy up close in one of Canada’s most iconic venues. Tickets are $200 for general admission and $300 for VIP seating, on sale September 16 at www.elmocambo.com.

“This partnership with the El Mocambo is a wonderful example of how community and culture can come together to support our mission to heal the future,”said Jennifer Bernard, President & CEO, SickKids Foundation. “We are so grateful to our incredible community partners for rallying for SickKids to champion child health.”

Funds raised will provide unrestricted support to SickKids, enabling the hospital to respond with agility to its most urgent needs and to continue leading the way in paediatric care and research.

In addition to its performance spaces, the El Mo is a premier destination for private events, birthdays, weddings and branded experiences. Its state-of-the-art recording studio and production facilities make it one of the most vibrant and versatile event spaces in the country.

“The El Mocambo isn’t just a venue, it’s a cultural institution,” said Mike Chalut, Executive Director of El Mocambo. “We’re rolling out the green carpet under the neon palms and creating a space where Canadian icons, international stars, and emerging artists all share the same stage. The El Mo is about unforgettable nights, endless memories, and a legacy that will shine for another 80 years.”

For more information, visit elmocambo.com and follow on social: Instagram and Facebook

About The El Mocambo
An icon of Canadian music history, Toronto’s El Mocambo has hosted legendary performances from The Rolling Stones, U2, Blondie, and many more. Today, the El Mo continues its legacy of world-class music while expanding its role as a hub for community impact.

About SickKids Foundation:

SickKids Foundation raises funds on behalf of The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) and has raised more than $3 billion since 1972. Thanks to the generosity of the community, it is the largest charitable funder of child health care, research and learning in Canada. This incredible philanthropy has helped fuel advancements in paediatric health and contributed to SickKids’ Newsweek ranking as the number one specialized paediatric hospital in the world. Precision health for every child is the future. At SickKids, it’s already begun. Join us at HealtheFuture.ca.

#FIRSTLOOK: “THE STUDIO” LEADS APPLE TV+’S RECORD-BREAKING 22 WINS AT EMMYS

Today, Apple TV+ scores a record-breaking 22 wins at the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards, including Outstanding Comedy Series for “The Studio,” which dominates as the most-winning series overall this year and the most-winning freshman comedy in history, setting a new record with 13 wins overall. Global phenomenon “Severance” leads as this year’s most-winning drama with eight wins including Outstanding Lead Actress Britt Lower and Outstanding Supporting Actor Tramell Tillman, while hit spy drama “Slow Horses” earns a win for Outstanding Directing for a Drama. 

“What an unforgettable, record-setting night for Seth, Evan, and ‘The Studio’ creative team,” said Zack Van Amburg, Apple’s head of Worldwide Video. “It has meant the world to all of us at Apple to watch fans embrace this series, alongside the year’s most-celebrated drama, ’Severance,’ and the acclaimed ‘Slow Horses.’ We are so appreciative of the Television Academy and applaud all of these artists who have shown the power of storytelling to bring people together.”

“It’s an incredible honour to see this milestone for ‘The Studio,’” said Jamie Erlicht, Apple’s head of Worldwide Video. “Tonight’s wins — from Seth and Evan’s sharp comedy to Britt and Tramell’s powerful work on ‘Severance’ — show how great stories connect with audiences everywhere. Huge congratulations to all of tonight’s nominees and winners. Your creativity keeps us inspired.”

In addition to Outstanding Comedy Series, freshman comedy “The Studio” scores Outstanding Lead Actor Seth Rogen; Outstanding Writing for a Comedy Series; and, Outstanding Directing for a Comedy Series. This is in addition to the previously announced wins for Outstanding Guest Actor Bryan Cranston; Outstanding Production Design; Outstanding Casting for a Comedy Series; Outstanding Cinematography for a Series (Half-Hour); Outstanding Contemporary Costumes; Outstanding Picture Editing for a Single Camera Comedy Series; Outstanding Music Supervision; Outstanding Sound Editing for a Comedy or Drama (Half-Hour); and, Outstanding Sound Mixing for a Comedy or Drama (Half-Hour). 

In its celebrated sophomore season, “Severance” scores eight Emmy Awards, with star Tramell Tillman nabbing his first Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor, and star Britt Lower earns her first Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama. The honours are in addition to previously announced wins at the Creative Arts Emmys for Outstanding Guest Actress Merritt Wever, Outstanding Production Design for a Narrative Contemporary Program (One Hour), Outstanding Cinematography for a Series (One Hour), Outstanding Music Composition for a Series (Original Dramatic Score), Outstanding Sound Mixing for a Comedy or Drama Series (One Hour) and Outstanding Main Title Design.

Following last year’s win for Outstanding Writing for a Drama Series, Apple’s acclaimed “Slow Horses” lands Outstanding Directing for a Drama for its fourth season.

To date, Apple Original films, documentaries and series have earned 620 wins and 2,816 award nominations and counting, including multi-Emmy Award-winning comedy “Ted Lasso” and historic Oscar Best Picture winner “CODA.”

In total, Apple earned 22 wins total for the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards, including:

“The Studio” (13)

• Outstanding Comedy Series 
• Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series: Seth Rogen 
• Outstanding Guest Actor in a Comedy Series: Bryan Cranston
• Outstanding Writing for a Comedy Series: Seth Rogen, Evan Goldberg, Peter Huyck, Alex Gregory, Frida Perez
• Outstanding Directing for a Comedy Series
• Outstanding Production Design for a Narrative Program (Half-Hour)
• Outstanding Casting for a Comedy Series
• Outstanding Cinematography for a Series (Half-Hour)
• Outstanding Contemporary Costumes for a Series
• Outstanding Picture Editing for a Single Camera Comedy Series
• Outstanding Music Supervision
• Outstanding Sound Editing for a Comedy or Drama Series (Half-Hour) 
• Outstanding Sound Mixing for a Comedy or Drama Series (Half-Hour) and Animation

“Severance” (8)

• Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series: Britt Lower
• Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series: Tramell Tillman
• Outstanding Guest Actress in a Drama Series: Merritt Wever
• Outstanding Production Design for a Narrative Contemporary Program (One Hour or More)
• Outstanding Cinematography for a Series (One Hour)
• Outstanding Music Composition for a Series (Original Dramatic Score)
• Outstanding Sound Mixing for a Comedy or Drama Series (One Hour)
• Outstanding Main Title Design

“Slow Horses” (1)

• Outstanding Directing for a Drama Series: Adam Randall 

“The Studio”

In “The Studio,” Seth Rogen stars as Matt Remick, the newly appointed head of embattled Continental Studios. As movies struggle to stay alive and relevant, Matt and his core team of infighting executives battle their insecurities as they wrangle narcissistic artists and craven corporate overlords in the ever-elusive pursuit of making great films. With their power suits masking their never-ending sense of panic, every party, set visit, casting decision, marketing meeting and award show presents them with an opportunity for glittering success or career-ending catastrophe. As someone who eats, sleeps and breathes movies, it’s the job Matt’s been pursuing his whole life, and it may very well destroy him.

“Severance”

In “Severance,” Mark Scout (Adam Scott) leads a team at Lumon Industries, whose employees have undergone a severance procedure that surgically divides their memories between their work and personal lives. This daring experiment in “work-life balance” is called into question as Mark finds himself at the centre of an unraveling mystery that will force him to confront the true nature of his work … and of himself. In season two, Mark and his friends learn the dire consequences of trifling with the severance barrier, leading them further down a path of woe.

“Slow Horses”

This darkly funny espionage drama follows a team of British intelligence agents who serve in a dumping ground department of MI5 due to their career-ending mistakes. Led by their brilliant but irascible leader, the notorious Jackson Lamb (Academy Award winner Sir Gary Oldman), they navigate the espionage world’s smoke and mirrors to defend England from sinister forces.

All programs are currently streaming on Apple TV+.

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 of a user’s 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.

About Apple TV+

Apple TV+ is available on the Apple TV app in over 100 countries and regions, on over 1 billion screens, including iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, Apple Vision Pro, Mac, popular smart TVs from Samsung, LG, Sony, VIZIO, TCL and others, Roku and Amazon Fire TV devices, Chromecast with Google TV, PlayStation and Xbox gaming consoles, and at tv.apple.com, for $14.99 per month with a seven-day free trial for new subscribers. For a limited time, customers who purchase and activate a new iPhone, iPad, Apple TV or Mac can enjoy three months of Apple TV+ for free.*

#FIRSTLOOK: “MONSTER: THE ED GEIN STORY” NEW OFFICIAL TRAILER

Serial killer. Grave robber. Psycho. In the frozen fields of 1950s rural Wisconsin, a friendly, mild-mannered recluse named Eddie Gein lived quietly on a decaying farm – hiding a house of horrors so gruesome it would redefine the American nightmare. Driven by isolation, psychosis, and an all-consuming obsession with his mother, Gein’s perverse crimes birthed a new kind of monster that would haunt Hollywood for decades. From Psycho to The Texas Chainsaw Massacre to The Silence of the Lambs, Gein’s macabre legacy gave birth to fictional monsters born in his image and ignited a cultural obsession with the criminally deviant. Ed Gein didn’t just influence a genre — he became the blueprint for modern horror.

Ryan Murphy and Ian Brennan’s groundbreaking anthology series returns with its third, most harrowing installment yet. Monster: The Ed Gein Story tells the story of how one simple man in Plainfield, Wisconsin became history’s most singular ghoul. He revealed to the world the most horrific truth of all — that monsters aren’t born, they’re made…by us.

Premiering globally on Netflix OCTOBER 3, 2025.

#FOOD: CHAIWALA OF LONDON CONTINUES CANADIAN EXPANSION

Chaiiwala of London, the UK’s beloved chai brand, is accelerating its Canadian expansion. Since arriving in Scarborough in 2021, Canadian franchise co-founders Shiraj Kothiwala and Ajmal Gundhra have been on a mission to share authentic chai culture and create inclusive community spaces.

Today, with 22 cafés open across four provinces and a bold target of 100 by 2030, Chaiiwala has quickly become one of Canada’s fastest-growing café brands. By blending tradition with a modern café vibe, the brand is redefining how Canadians experience chai and Indian street food.

“We wanted to create a space that feels like home – a place where people can gather, connect, and enjoy authentic chai and street food,” says Shiraj Kothiwala, co-founder, Chaiiwala Canada. “It’s more than a café; it’s a cultural experience.”

Ajmal Gundhra, co-founder of Chaiiwala Canada, adds: “Chaiiwala is about more than serving great tea; it’s about preserving tradition while creating new experiences for a modern audience. Our growth across Canada proves there’s a real appetite for cultural connection through food and drink.”

Chaiiwala’s menu blends East Indian, East African, and British culinary influences. Signature offerings include Karak Chaii, Pink Chaii, Karak Coffee, and street food favourites like Desi Breakfast, Bombay Toastie, and indulgent Gulab Jamun Cheesecake.

Chaiiwala’s growth story began in the UK in 2016, inspired by an ancestor’s tea stall in New Delhi, India dating back to 1927. Today, the brand operates over 100 locations worldwide, with Canada serving as its first international expansion market.

Upcoming Canadian openings include Edmonton (October 2025), King George Hub (January 2026), and additional locations in Kelowna, Saskatoon, and Vancouver in 2026.

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#EMMYS: “THE STUDIO” LEADS WAY AT 77TH EMMY AWARDS WITH 13 WINS

The Television Academy tonight celebrated the 77th Emmy® Awards, recognizing excellence in television programming and individual achievement for the 2024-2025 television season.

Apple TV+ series THE STUDIO led the way with 13 wins, including Outstanding Comedy Series, Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series (Seth Rogen), Outstanding Writing and Directing in a Comedy Series (the latter two shared with Rogen‘s longtime collaborator Evan Goldberg). HBO‘s THE PENGUIN followed behind with nine wins. Outstanding Drama Series went to HBO‘s THE PIT.

The 77th Emmy Awards was broadcast live from the Peacock Theater in downtown Los Angeles on the CBS Television Network, hosted by Nate Bargatze and executive produced by Jesse Collins, Dionne Harmon and Jeannae Rouzan-Clay of Jesse Collins Entertainment.

The telecast featured awards in 26 Emmy categories presented by top talent from some of television’s most acclaimed programs.

In addition, Ted Danson and Mary Steenburgen were honored with the Bob Hope Humanitarian Award, one of the highest honors presented by the Television Academy’s Board of Governors.

Television tributes included the 50th season of Survivor, 20th anniversary of Grey’s Anatomy, 35th anniversary of Law & Order and the 25th anniversary of Gilmore Girls. Additional presenters included Malin Akerman, Elizabeth Banks, Ike Barinholtz, Angela Bassett, Jason Bateman, Kathy Bates, Alexis Bledel, Kristen Bell, Sterling K. Brown, Stephen Colbert, Jennifer Coolidge, Bryan Cranston, Alan Cumming, Mikey Day, Colman Domingo, Tina Fey, Brad Garrett, Walton Goggins, Tony Goldwyn, Lauren Graham, Kathryn Hahn, Mariska Hargitay, Justin Hartley, Charlie Hunnam, Ice-T, James Austin Johnson, Jude Law, James Marsden, Young Mazino, Christopher Meloni, S. Epatha Merkerson, Leanne Morgan, Julianne Nicholson, Jenna Ortega, Sarah Paulson, Evan Peters, Jeff Probst, Parker Posey, Phylicia Rashad, Ray Romano, Hiroyuki Sanada, Anna Sawai, Hunter Schafer, Michael Schur, J.B. Smoove, Brittany Snow, Sydney Sweeney, Jesse Williams, Bowen Yang and Catherine Zeta-Jones.

Celebrated American singers Lainey Wilson and Vince Gill performed Gill’s moving anthem “Go Rest High on That Mountain” for the “In Memoriam” segment of the show. A special Golden Girls tribute performance of the show’s iconic theme song “Thank You for Being a Friend,” by musical artists Karen Fairchild, Reba McEntire and Kimberly Schlapman also took place.

The 77th Emmy Awards is available on demand on Paramount+ through Sept. 21.

Additionally, Emmys were awarded in 97 other categories at the Creative Arts

Emmy Awards during two ceremonies on the weekend of Saturday, Sept. 6, and Sunday, Sept. 7; and an edited version of those awards is available for viewing on FXX until Oct. 7.

About the Television Academy

The Television Academy strives to shape and advance the dynamic television landscape; cultivate a diverse, inclusive and accessible professional community; and advocate for the television industry while capturing the spirit of a new generation of content creators and industry professionals. Through innovative programs, publications and events, the Academy and its Foundation foster and empower storytellers. The Academy also celebrates those who excel in the industry by recognizing their achievements through awards and accolades, including the renowned Emmy® Award. Membership in the Academy is open to working professionals in the television industry. For more information, please visit TelevisionAcademy.com.

For more information, please visit Emmys.com.

#FIRSTLOOK: NEW TRAILER FOR “SPRINGSTEEN: DELIVER ME FROM NOWHERE”

Today, 20^th Century Studios unveiled an all-new trailer for Scott Cooper’s highly anticipated film, “Springsteen: Deliver Me from Nowhere.” Following its stellar reception at the Telluride Film Festival, the film currently holds a 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. 

“Springsteen: Deliver Me from Nowhere” chronicles the making of Bruce Springsteen’s 1982 “Nebraska” album. Recorded on a 4-track recorder in Springsteen’s New Jersey bedroom, the album marked a pivotal time in his life and is considered one of his most enduring works—a raw, haunted acoustic record populated by lost souls searching for a reason to believe. 

“‘Nebraska’ is where Bruce chose truth over expectation—a choice that still reverberates through everything he’s written since. At that crossroads, he could have chased the bright lights and the roar of arenas, but instead he turned inward, armed only with silence, a four-track recorder, and the courage to confront himself. For him to trust me with telling that story—the most vulnerable chapter of his life—is the greatest honour I’ve ever had as a filmmaker,” says Cooper.

“This film takes a couple years out of my life and looks at them very closely, a time when I made ‘Nebraska’ and went through some personal difficulties,” says Springsteen. “I’m so appreciative of Jeremy Allen White and the entire cast for their wonderful and moving performances—and Scott Cooper, one of the most generous collaborators I’ve ever worked with.”

Starring Jeremy Allen White as Bruce Springsteen, the film is directed by Scott Cooper from his adaptation of Warren Zanes’ book of the same name. “Springsteen: Deliver Me from Nowhere” also features Jeremy Strong as Springsteen’s long-time confidant and manager, Jon Landau; Paul Walter Hauser as guitar tech Mike Batlan; Odessa Young as Faye; Stephen Graham as Springsteen’s father, Doug; Gaby Hoffman as Springsteen’s mother, Adele; and David Krumholtz as Columbia executive, Al Teller. 

The film is produced by Cooper, Ellen Goldsmith-Vein, Eric Robinson and Scott Stuber. Tracey Landon, Jon F. Vein and Zanes executive produce. The film includes an original score by composer Jeremiah Fraites, cinematography by Masanobu Takayanagi, production design by Stefania Cella, costume design by Kasia Walicka-Maimone, and is edited by Pamela Martin. “Springsteen: Deliver Me from Nowhere” will be in theatres October 24. 

#TIFF25: “HAMNET” WINS PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARD AT 2025 TORONTO INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

TIFF is announcing 12 awards today, including the Platform Award, TIFF’s only juried competition, and the coveted People’s Choice Awards presented by Rogers. This year’s awards include two exciting new additions: the International People’s Choice Award and the Short Cuts Award for Best Animated Short Film. As TIFF’s 50th edition comes to a close, the Festival is proud to have welcomed over 700,000 guests, nearly 2,000 accredited media, 6,000 Industry delegates, 1,200 screenings, and a stellar lineup of talent who graced 110 red carpets.

Audiences can catch this year’s People’s Choice Award–winning films at TIFF Lightbox screenings starting at noon today, with free tickets available to the public (visit here for more information).

PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARDS PRESENTED BY ROGERS

The 48th edition of TIFF’s People’s Choice Awards, presented by Rogers, presents the audience’s top titles at the Festival as voted by the viewing public. All feature films and Primetime series in TIFF’s Official Selection are eligible.

People’s Choice Award presented by Rogers: Hamnet, dir. Chloé Zhao

First runner-up: Frankenstein, dir. Guillermo del Toro

Second runner-up: Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery, dir. Rian Johnson

International People’s Choice Award presented by Rogers: No Other Choice, dir. Park Chan-wook

First runner-up: Sentimental Value, dir. Joachim Trier

Second runner-up: Homebound, dir. Neeraj Ghaywan

People’s Choice Documentary Award presented by Rogers: The Road Between Us: The Ultimate Rescue, dir. Barry Avrich

First runner-up: EPiC: Elvis Presley in Concert, dir. Baz Luhrmann

Second runner-up: You Had to Be There: How the Toronto Godspell Ignited the Comedy Revolution…, dir. Nick Davis

People’s Choice Midnight Madness Award presented by Rogers: Nirvanna the Band the Show the Movie, dir. Matt Johnson

First runner-up: Obsession, dir. Curry Barker

Second runner-up: The Furious, dir. Kenji Tanigaki

SHORT CUTS AWARDS

Short Cuts Awards are presented to the Best International Short Film, Best Canadian Short Film, and Best Animated Short Film, as awarded by the Short Cuts jury. Each of the three winning films will receive a bursary of $10,000 CAD. The 2025 jurors for the Short Cuts Awards are Ashley Iris Gill, Marcel Jean, and Connor Jessup.

Short Cuts Award for Best International Short Film:

Talk Me, dir. Joecar Hanna | Spain/USA

Short Cuts jury’s statement: “This film sparked one of the most interesting conversations around the jury table. Talk Me is bold in its portrayal of intimacy and the universal longing for connection. The characters fit so naturally into the film’s unique, evocative world that everything feels normal very quickly. Its cinematography is beautiful, delicate yet deliberate, each frame carefully crafted to draw us deeper into the story. By allowing the visuals to lead, the film creates an immersive experience of vulnerability and honesty. For its courage, craft, and sensitivity, the jury presents the Short Cuts Award for Best International Short Film to Joecar Hanna’s Talk Me.”

Honourable Mention:

Agapito, dirs. Arvin Belarmino & Kyla Danelle Romero | Philippines

Short Cuts jury’s statement: “For its formal precision, command of a delicate tone, poetic awareness of space and movement, and deeply personal reflections on family, the jury is thrilled to present an Honourable Mention to Arvin Belarmino and Kyla Danelle Romero’s remarkable Agapito. The jury also wants to acknowledge the brilliantly nuanced and committed performances of the film’s young cast.”

Short Cuts Award for Best Canadian Short Film:

The Girl Who Cried Pearls, dirs. Chris Lavis & Maciek Szczerbowski | Canada

Short Cuts jury’s statement: “In addition to highlighting the film’s daring technical achievement and sumptuous artistic direction, the jury also wants to recognize a fable about greed and the capacity of artists to create a fantastic world by the power of their narrative voice. The Short Cuts Award for Best Canadian Short Film goes to Chris Lavis and Maciek Szczerbowski for The Girl Who Cried Pearls.”

Honourable Mention:

A Soft Touch, dir. Heather Young

Short Cuts jury’s statement: “A Soft Touch really pierced our hearts. It finds a way to transform routine, everyday moments into a quietly devastating portrait of neglect and resilience. With searing precision and simplicity, the film illuminates how easily older folks can be overlooked, and in doing so, demands our attention, empathy, and accountability. The jury awards an Honourable Mention to Heather Young’s A Soft Touch.”

Short Cuts Award for Best Animated Short Film:

To the Woods, dir. Agnès Patron | France

Short Cuts jury’s statement: “This wordless journey into the bond between two siblings becomes a transcendent meditation on the mysteries of time and memory, love and loss, connection and transformation. Animated with lush, cosmic beauty and vibrating with tenderness and insight, the film plunges its viewer into deep, deep feeling. For its overwhelming artistry, luminous spirit, and soul-expanding sense of mystery, the jury presents the Short Cuts Award for Best Animated Short Film to Agnès Patron’s To the Woods. The jury also wants to note the film’s jaw-dropping sound design and the work of composer Pierre Oberkampf, whose score ranks among the best film music of recent years.”

FIPRESCI PRIZE

The FIPRESCI jury is awarding the International Critics Prize, dedicated to emerging filmmakers, to a debut feature film having its World Premiere in TIFF’s Discovery or Centrepiece programmes. The 2025 FIPRESCI jury members are: Katharina Dockhorn (Germany), Francisco Ferreira (Portugal), Jean-Philippe Guerand (France), Andy Hazel (Australia), and Justine Smith (Canada).

FIPRESCI Prize:

Forastera, dir. Lucía Aleñar Iglesias | Spain/Italy/Sweden

FIPRESCI jury’s statement: “Spanish cinema, long shaped by the exuberance of Pedro Almodóvar, has found a new distinctive voice in Lucía Aleñar Iglesias. Set on sun-drenched Mallorca, Forastera follows 16-year-old Cata, whose carefree family holiday is brought to a halt by the death of her grandmother. In her grief, the teenager takes on the older woman’s persona — wearing her clothes, adopting her gestures and silences. Aleñar Iglesias directs with restraint and precision, finding power in understatement. Performances from newcomer Zoe Stein and veteran Lluís Homar anchor the film’s dreamlike rhythms. What might sound slight becomes luminous: a meditation on an adolescent’s first encounter with death, and a ghost story about how the past lingers in the present. Forastera is a quietly assured debut, simple yet transformative, marking Aleñar Iglesias as a filmmaker the FIPRESCI jury would like to bet on.”

NETPAC AWARD

Presented by the Network for the Promotion of Asian Pacific Cinema, the NETPAC Award recognizes films specifically from the Asian and Pacific regions. The jury consists of three international community members selected by TIFF and NETPAC, who award the prize to the best Asian film by a first or second-time feature director. The 2025 NETPAC jury members are Dina Iordanova, Helen Lee, and Keoprasith Souvannavong, who is serving as Jury Chair.

NETPAC Award:

In Search of The Sky (Vimukt), dir. Jitank Singh Gurjar | India

NETPAC jury’s statement: “For offering an indelible tale of tolerance, desperation and faith, conveyed through a unique lens of realism and poetics, elevated by striking performances. In Search of The Sky (Vimukt) is a truly independent achievement by Indian filmmaker Jitank Singh Gurjar. The film transports the audience to rural central India, where an impoverished elderly couple contends with their cognitively challenged adult son and the villagers who threaten their existence. A beacon of hope comes in the form of the Maha Kumbh Mela, a pilgrimage to the world’s largest spiritual gathering where they seek renewal and new possibilities of life.”

BEST CANADIAN DISCOVERY AWARD

The Best Canadian Discovery Award celebrates works of emerging filmmakers who contribute to enriching the Canadian film landscape. All Canadian first or second feature films in Official Selection are eligible for this award. The winner will receive a cash prize of $10,000 CAD.

Jury members presiding over both the Best Canadian Discovery Award and Best Canadian Feature Film Award are: Jennifer Baichwal, Sophie Jarvis, and R.T. Thorne:

“Thirty-five films in 10 days gives you some perspective on the cinematic zeitgeist in our country. As a jury, we were particularly impressed by the wonderful variety, breadth, and strength of storytelling in the Indigenous films supported by the Indigenous Screen Office. This was a powerful indicator of the future of cinema in this country, and we look forward to seeing more in the future.”

Best Canadian Discovery Award:

Blue Heron, dir. Sophy Romvari | Canada

Jury’s statement: “Blue Heron, written and directed by Sophy Romvari, is a film centered on a family struggling with a troubling personal crisis, where all elements — script, direction, cinematography, performance and editing — unite to powerfully transcend the sum of their parts. The complexity of story, perspective, and emotion is conveyed with understated simplicity — nothing is superfluous — and the transitions between real and imagined, past and present, are seamless, as well as heartbreaking. Blue Heron is a stunning and assured feature debut about love, grief, memory, and the yearning to go back to the moment before everything changed.”

Honourable Mention:

100 Sunset, dir. Kunsang Kyirong | Canada

Jury’s statement: “We as a jury were struck by the remarkable world-building in 100 Sunset, Kunsang Kyirong’s directorial debut. She invites us into the apartment complex that is home to members of the Tibetan immigrant community in Toronto, where we experience the gossip, rivalries, and intrigues through the eyes of an observant young thief who rarely speaks but seems to register everything. The growing friendship between the thief and a newly arrived young wife is a study in seeing and being seen, and the interplay of an old DV camera perspective takes us along on their journey of expanding horizons.”

BEST CANADIAN FEATURE FILM AWARD

The Best Canadian Feature Film Award honours the unique craft and storytelling in Canadian cinema. All Canadian feature films in Official Selection — excluding first or second features — are considered for the award. The winning filmmaker will receive a $10,000 CAD cash prize.

Best Canadian Feature Film Award:

Uiksaringitara (Wrong Husband), dir. Zacharias Kunuk | Canada

Jury’s statement: “Wrong Husband, directed by Zacharias Kunuk, is a love story from thousands of years ago that blends the epic and intimate and immerses viewers in a mesmerizing and unique cinematic experience. The supernatural is ever-present and matter of fact alongside exquisite details of the daily rhythms of ancient Inuit life. The humour, gentleness and stoicism in the characters’ interactions is deeply moving, and the landscape is both a sublime setting and a character in itself. This is a beautiful and not unexpected achievement from a master storyteller.”

Honourable Mention:

There Are No Words, dir. Min Sook Lee | Canada

Jury’s statement: “An Honourable Mention goes to There Are No Words, written and directed by veteran documentarian Min Sook Lee. This film is a profound and devastating story of unspeakable loss; the shifting shape and mingling of individual and collective memory; the sometimes brutal immigrant experience; and how past violent personal and political realities can continue to define the identity of a family.”

PLATFORM AWARD

Marking the tenth anniversary of the Festival’s competitive section, Platform champions bold directorial vision and distinctive storytelling on the world stage. The Platform Award is a prize of $20,000 CAD given to the best film in the programme, selected by an in-person international jury: Carlos Marqués-Marcet (Jury Chair), Marianne Jean-Baptiste, and Chloé Robichaud.

Platform Award:

To The Victory!, dir. Valentyn Vasyanovych | Ukraine/Lithuania

Platform jury’s statement: “To The Victory! is the unanimous choice for this year’s Platform Award amongst a very strong selection. Bringing cinematic language to its roots and, at the same time, masterfully playing with audience expectations, this film dismantles convention to reveal deeply resonant universal emotions. Director Valentyn Vasyanovych has choreographed a mise-en-scène rendered with masterful precision, arriving at the kind of refined simplicity that can only be achieved with artistic maturity and bold vision. He has deftly used comedy to address a very complicated and complex situation into a work that is both audacious and profoundly beautiful. Ultimately, the film returns us to the very essence of cinema — reminding us why we are compelled to tell stories on film, and why we continue to do so.”

Honourable Mention:

Hen, dir. György Pálfi | Germany/Greece/Hungary

Platform jury’s statement: “The jury also wishes to recognize the extraordinary artistry of director György Pálfi, whose work exemplifies boldness, intelligence, and creative ingenuity. Blending cinematic genres in an inventive and seamless manner, Hen demonstrates remarkable precision in its camera movement and shot composition, resulting in an exceptionally effective narrative. György’s unwavering commitment to exploring humanity through the perspective of the hen yields a singularly original vision — a work of stunning originality, unlike anything else in contemporary cinema.”

Awards descriptions including eligibility can be found here: tiff.net/awards. Information on the People’s Choice Award voting process can be found here: tiff.net/vote.

Last Sunday, TIFF hosted its seventh annual TIFF Tribute Awards, in partnership with Rolex. Photos of the event can be found here.

The 50th Toronto International Film Festival, presented by Rogers, concludes today. The 51st edition of the Festival will take place September 10–20, 2026.

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About TIFF:

TIFF is a not-for-profit cultural organization with a mission to transform the way people see the world through film. A global leader in film and entertainment, TIFF initiatives include the annual Toronto International Film Festival® in September; TIFF Lightbox, which features five cinemas, learning and entertainment facilities; the Donald Shebib TIFF Film Circuit, an innovative national distribution program; and TIFF: The Market launching in 2026. The organization generates an estimated annual economic impact of $240 million CAD. TIFF Lightbox is generously supported by contributors including the Province of Ontario, the Government of Canada, the City of Toronto, the Reitman family (Ivan Reitman, Agi Mandel, and Susan Michaels), The Daniels Corporation, and RBC. For more information, visit tiff.net.

TIFF is generously supported by Festival Presenting Sponsor Rogers Communications.

TIFF is generously supported by Major Sponsors RBC and Visa and Major Supporters the Government of Ontario, Telefilm Canada, and the City of Toronto.

The People’s Choice Awards are presented by Rogers.