#FIRSTLOOK: “FRASIER” REBOOT COMING TO PARAMOUNT+

Paramount+ today revealed a first look and announced the premiere date for the upcoming Paramount+ original series FRASIER. Starring Kelsey Grammer, who reprises his EmmyⓇ- Award-winning role as Frasier Crane, the 10-episode season will premiere in the U.S and Canada on Thursday, October 12, 2023 with two episodes, and on Friday, October 13 in all other international markets with Paramount+. New episodes will then drop weekly on Thursdays, exclusively on Paramount+ in the U.S. and Canada, and on Fridays internationally.

Filmed in front of a live studio audience at Paramount Studios in Los Angeles, the new series follows Frasier Crane (Grammer) in the next chapter of his life as he returns to Boston with new challenges to face, new relationships to forge and an old dream or two to finally fulfill. Frasier has re-entered the building!

In addition to Grammer, the new series stars Jack Cutmore-Scott as Frasier’s son Freddy; Nicholas Lyndhurst as Frasier’s old college buddy turned university professor Alan; Toks Olagundoye as Olivia, Alan’s colleague and head of the university’s psychology department; Canadian Jess Salgueiro as Freddy’s roommate Eve; and Anders Keith as Frasier’s nephew David.

FRASIER comes from writers Chris Harris (How I Met Your Mother) and Joe Cristalli (Life in Pieces), who executive produce with Kelsey Grammer, Tom Russo and Jordan McMahon. The series is produced by CBS Studios, in association with Grammer’s Grammnet NH Productions. The first two episodes of the new series are directed by legendary director and television creator James Burrows, who is best known for his work as co-creator, executive producer and director of the critically acclaimed series Cheers, as well as the original series Frasier, Will & Grace and Dear John. The series is distributed by Paramount Global Content Distribution outside of the Paramount+ markets.

This fall marks 30 years since the original FRASIER first premiered on television, which still holds the record for most Emmy wins for a comedy series with 37 wins and 107 nominations. The series is available to stream on Paramount+ and Pluto TV.

#NEWMUSIC: 1MX ASIAN MUSIC FESTIVAL ARRIVES IN TORONTO SEPTEMBER 10, 2023

After successful runs in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Manila and most recently London, renowned global Asian music celebration 1MX Music Festival will make its North American debut on Sunday, September 10, taking over the iconic Budweiser Stage in Toronto. The traveling showcase brings together the best in Asian food and music. International sensations UMI, Ben&Ben, thuy, Guapdad 4000, BGYO and Justin Park will all take the stage for the Toronto stop, along with JUNO-nominated headliner Dabin, and fellow Canadian DJs, DJ Jayemkayem, DJ Tilt and DJ Hedspin.

1MX will be the first Asian music festival to ever take place at Budweiser Stage, with
performances from Dabin, UMI, Ben&Ben, thuy, Guapdad 4000, BGYO, Justin Park, DJ Tilt, DJ Jayemkayem and DJ Hedspin.

The festival shines a light on the music and food that defines Asian youth culture, bringing
together both local and international talent

Tickets start at $39.50 CA (including taxes and service fees) and are available now at
Ticketmaster.ca

After successful runs in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Manila and most recently London, renowned global Asian music celebration 1MX Music Festival will make its North American debut on Sunday, September 10, taking over the iconic Budweiser Stage in Toronto. The traveling showcase brings together the best in Asian food and music. International sensations UMI, Ben&Ben, thuy, Guapdad 4000, BGYO and Justin Park will all take the stage for the Toronto stop, along with JUNO-nominated headliner Dabin, and fellow Canadian DJs, DJ Jayemkayem, DJ Tilt and DJ Hedspin.

“We are excited to bring the first ever 1MX Music Festival in North America to the city of Toronto on September 10 at Budweiser Stage,” said Jun del Rosario, Managing Director, ABS-CBN International – North and Latin America. “We want to host this family-friendly event as a way of bringing the community together for a day filled with world-class entertainment from Asian music artists mixed with other international performers. We eagerly look forward to this special celebration of music and culture.”

1MX features a tightly curated line-up of established and emerging Asian artists excelling in their genres and on track to becoming some of the next biggest acts in the world:

Dabin is a JUNO-nominated music producer from Toronto that has made a lasting impact on the electronic music scene. Known for his signature blend of acoustic and electronic elements, Dabin captivates audiences with his dynamic live shows.

UMI is a trailblazer in the R&B and neo-soul space, having captured audiences with her honest lyrics and healing sonics. The 23-year-old Seattle native embodies girl power, leading an all-female band and promoting uplifting personal connection in her music.

Ben&Ben is a renowned Filipino folk-pop band that has been recognized as Spotify’s Most Streamed Artist in the Philippines. Their captivating music fuses electronic and acoustic instruments with poignant and truthful storytelling to create a truly mesmerizing musical experience.

thuy is a rising independent recording artist and songwriter with over 150 million global streams to-date. The LA-based artist has made waves in the modern R&B scene with her angelic vocals and skillful songwriting that gives audiences music they can relate to.

Guapdad 4000 is a Grammy-nominated artist hailing from West Oakland with an unstoppable momentum. His unique blend of charisma, lyricism and creativity, along with his electrifying live performances, have solidified his position as a rising star.

BGYO have emerged as trailblazing forces in the Philippine music scene, rising to the top of the P-POP genre. Gelo, Akira, JL, Mikki and Nate have uplifted their exceptional talent and Filipino pride to win over audiences globally and garner a collection of awards and recognition.

Justin Park is a Korean-American R&B sensation that has seized hearts with his soulful voice. The LA-based artist has achieved critical acclaim and international attention from his addictive music and shoutouts from BTS’s Jungkook along with top publications.

DJ Tilt is a genre-bending music connoisseur that continues to elevate the music scene with his unparalleled talent. From Toronto to New York, his infectious energy and versatile mixes have made him a favourite among private clients and prestigious brands and events, including the Google Inaugural Ball for President Barack Obama to name just one

DJ Jayemkayem has solidified her reputation as one of Canada’s top open format selectors with the ability to energize diverse crowds. The Calgary-born and Toronto-based DJ has travelled the world and performed her undeniable talent alongside artists such as Majid Jordan and Skepta.

DJ Hedspin is a Toronto-born artist and DJ that has proven himself as a true standout in the game. He is the World Champion of the Red Bull Thre3Style Competition and is renowned for his exceptional technical skills and energetically liberating live shows.

A truly immersive experience for all the senses, 1MX Toronto will also spotlight authentic Asian eats in partnership with food vendors from the GTA. Stay tuned for lineup and menu details later on this summer.

The most recent edition of 1MX took place on Saturday, July 8, 2023 in London for the second consecutive year, attracting thousands of festival-goers from various parts of Europe and beyond. Audiences raved for the eclectic line-up of artists that blended must-know emerging and established Filipino talents with international acts, including Ben&Ben, Yuna, Moira, Johnny Orlando, Maymay, Tiny Umbrellas and DJ Clara Rosa. Images from the show can be found here.

Connect with 1MX Music Festival on socials:
Website: 1musicx.com/Toronto
Instagram: @1mxmusicfest
YouTube: @1mxmusicfest
Tags: #1MXTOR #1MXToronto #1MXMusicFestival

#FIRSTLOOK: GARETH EDWARDS TO PARTICIPATE IN “THE CREATOR” IMAX LIVE EXCLUSIVE EVENT

Director/producer/co-writer Gareth Edwards (“Rogue One: A Star Wars Story,” “Godzilla”) will participate in THE CREATOR: IMAX® LIVE EXCLUSIVE FIRST LOOK on Tuesday, August 29, 2023 at 5:00 pm PT/8:00 pm ET. The sneak peek fan event will take place at the AMC Century City IMAX Theatre and feature exclusive footage from the upcoming sci-fi action thriller and an interactive live Q&A with Edwards. “The Creator” opens exclusively in theatres September 29, 2023.

The exclusive screening event will take place at 10 participating IMAX theatres in Los Angeles, New York, Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Toronto, Seattle, Washington D.C., and San Francisco, and all attendees will receive a commemorative lanyard and mini poster from the film. Tickets for the sneak peek are available on a first-come, first-served basis at: TheCreatorIMAXLive.com  

An epic sci-fi action thriller set amidst a future war between the human race and the forces of artificial intelligence, “The Creator” stars John David Washington, Gemma Chan, Ken Watanabe, Sturgill Simpson, Madeleine Yuna Voyles, and Allison Janney. Joshua (Washington), a hardened ex-special forces agent grieving the disappearance of his wife (Chan), is recruited to hunt down and kill the Creator, the elusive architect of advanced AI who has developed a mysterious weapon with the power to end the war…and mankind itself. Joshua and his team of elite operatives journey across enemy lines, into the dark heart of AI-occupied territory, only to discover the world-ending weapon he’s been instructed to destroy is an AI in the form of a young child (Voyles). The film is directed by Gareth Edwards, with a screenplay by Gareth Edwards and Chris Weitz from a story by Gareth Edwards. The producers are Gareth Edwards, p.g.a., Kiri Hart, Jim Spencer, p.g.a., and Arnon Milchan. The executive producers are Yariv Milchan, Michael Schaefer, Natalie Lehmann, Nick Meyer, and Zev Foreman.

#TIFF23: ADDITIONAL HONOUREES ANNOUNCED AT TIFF TRIBUTE GALA

TIFF is delighted to announce additional honourees who will be receiving a TIFF Tribute Award at this year’s Festival. Recipients include award-winning Brazilian filmmaker Carolina Markowicz who will be honoured with the TIFF Emerging Talent Award presented by MGM Studios. This award is in the spirit of Torontonian Mary Pickford, the groundbreaking actor, producer, and co-founder of United Artists, whose impact continues today. Two-time Academy Award–nominated Polish cinematographer Łukasz Žal will receive the TIFF Variety Artisan Award, which recognizes a distinguished creative who has excelled at their craft and made an outstanding contribution to cinema and entertainment. Both Markowicz and Žal will be honoured on September 10 at the fifth annual TIFF Tribute Awards gala fundraiser at Fairmont Royal York Hotel, presented by Bulgari.

On September 15, TIFF will be honouring Andy Lau, the multi-hyphenate Hong Kong artist with a Special Tribute Award at the World Premiere Gala presentation of Ning Hao’s The Movie Emperor, in which he stars. This marks Lau’s first visit since he last attended the Festival in 2001. He will also be participating in the In Conversation With… (ICW) series on September 16. Lau is one of Hong Kong’s most popular entertainers, with a career spanning more than four decades and over 160 films in his filmography. He has received recognition from critics for his work in both television and film, with memorable roles in Ann Hui’s Boat People (1982), Wong Kar Wai’s As Tears Go By (1988), Andrew Lau and Alan Mak’s Infernal Affairs trilogy, and reteaming with Hui in the hit drama A Simple Life (2011). Previous recipients of the Special Tribute Award include David Foster (2019) and Dionne Warwick (2021).

“We are thrilled to honour the remarkable talents and contributions of Andy Lau, Carolina Markowicz, and Łukasz Žal,” said Cameron Bailey, CEO, TIFF. “An industry icon and multi-faceted artist with an impressive filmography, Lau has paved the way for a generation of performers. Emerging Talent honoree Markowicz has an exciting future ahead as one of the most fearless directors of her generation, and Žal’s cinematography continues to evoke emotion in The Zone of Interest.”

Confirming herself as one of Brazil’s clearest voices in current cinema, writer-director Carolina Markowicz returns to the Festival with the World Premiere of her second feature, Toll, on September 9. Following the acclaim of her 2022 dark and twisted comedy Charcoal, Toll is a film about a Brazilian mother who falls in with a gang of thieves in an attempt to keep her family afloat. Previous recipients of the TIFF Emerging Talent Award presented by MGM Studios include Sally El Hosaini in 2022; Danis Goulet in 2021; Tracey Deer in 2020; and Mati Diop in 2019.

Žal, best known for his stunning cinematography in Pawel Pawlikowski’s Cold War and Ida, returns to the Festival with the Jonathan Glazer–directed The Zone of Interest. The film, adapted from a 2014 novel of the same title by Martin Amis, was awarded the Grand Prix at this year’s Cannes Film Festival. Entirely shot in Poland, Žal’s lens has a chilling effect — detached from the horrors of the prison camp, the camera captures the banality of the Höss family living their everyday life outside the walls of Auschwitz, contrasted by unforgettable reminders of resistance at night, and shot in monochrome by thermal-imaging cameras. Previous recipients of the TIFF Variety Artisan Award include Hildur Guðnadóttir in 2022; Ari Wegner in 2021; Terence Blanchard in 2020; and Roger Deakins in 2019.

“Variety is honoured to be giving Łukasz Žal our annual Artisan Award at the Toronto International Film Festival,” said Jazz Tangcay, Senior Artisans Editor at Variety. “We have been fans of his work from Ida and Cold War and with his most recent film, The Zone of Interest, Łukasz continues to raise the bar for inventive and avant-garde cinematography.”

The Tribute Awards gala is TIFF’s largest annual fundraiser, having raised $1.3 million in 2022, and is presented by Bulgari, sharing their commitment to arts and culture along with TIFF. This year, the Tribute Awards gala will support the Viola Desmond Cinema campaign, which was launched through the Every Story Fund in 2022. For more information, visit tiff.net/tribute.

Andy Lau bio
The star of Ning Hao’s The Movie Emperor, Andy Lau has been a leading figure in Asian cinema for the past four decades. Like many of his contemporaries, Lau started out in the early 1980s as an actor for Television Broadcasts Limited (TVB), Hong Kong’s premier television network. He landed his first feature film role in Ann Hui’s Boat People (1982), a central work of the Hong Kong New Wave. In the late 1980s, Lau fully transitioned to working in film and enthralled audiences and critics alike in Wong Kar Wai’s As Tears Go By (1988) and Days of Being Wild (1990). Lau launched his own production company in the early 1990s and has starred in over 160 feature films, including Johnnie To’s relentless police thriller Running Out of Time (1999), Andrew Lau and Alan Mak’s twisty and unpredictable Infernal Affairs (2002) and Infernal Affairs III (2003), Zhang Yimou’s martial arts extravaganza House of Flying Daggers (2004), Tsui Hark’s delirious fantasy whodunit Detective Dee: The Mystery of the Phantom Flame (2010), Hui’s grounded drama A Simple Life (2011), and Frant Gwo’s mega-action blockbuster The Wandering Earth 2 (2023). A natural entertainer and multi-faceted artist, Lau has won three Hong Kong Film Awards for Best Actor, received the Asian Filmmaker of the Year Award at the 2006 Busan International Film Festival, and holds the Guinness World Record for “Most Awards Won by a Cantopop Male Artist.” He joins us for an in-depth conversation about his storied career as an actor, producer, and celebrated Cantopop singer-songwriter, as well as his new film The Movie Emperor, which is a Gala Presentation at this year’s Festival.

Carolina Markowicz bio
Carolina Markowicz has written and directed six award-winning short films that have been selected for more than 300 festivals. Her 2018 short film, The Orphan, premiered in Cannes Directors’ Fortnight and won the Queer Palm. Since 2021, Carolina has been a member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. Her debut feature, Charcoal, premiered at TIFF in 2022. Toll, her second feature, will premiere at TIFF 2023.

Łukasz Žal bio
Łukasz Žal is a cinematographer based out of Poland. He most recently shot Charlie Kaufman’s critically acclaimed I’m Thinking of Ending Things, as well as Pawel Pawlikowski’s Cold War, which earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Cinematography and was nominated for Best Foreign Language Film in 2019. Previously, he was nominated for an Academy Award in 2016 for Pawlikowski’s Ida and was one of two cinematographers of the 2017 Oscar-nominated animated feature Loving Vincent (dir. DK Welchman, Hugo Welchman). In addition, he received the Golden Frog Award at Camerimage twice for his work on Ida and Paparazzi (dir. Piotr Bernas), as well as the Silver Frog Award for Cold War. Žal also shot Dovlatov (dir. Aleksiej German Jr.), which premiered at the 2018 Berlin International Film Festival, and The Here After (dir. Magnus von Horn), an official selection of the Directors’ Fortnight at the 2015 Cannes Film Festival. He is a Member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, European Film Academy, and Polish Society of Cinematographers.

#FIRSTLOOK: NEW STILLS FROM “NYAD”

Premiering November 3, 2023 on Netflix and next month at TIFF, here is a first look at NYAD starring Annette Bening and Jodie Foster!

DIRECTORS: Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi, Jimmy Chin
WRITER: Julia Cox
BASED ON: The Book “Find A Way” by Diana Nyad
PRODUCERS: Andrew Lazar, Teddy Schwarzman
EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS: Bill Johnson, Jim Seibel, Michael Heimler, Vanessa Humphrey, Julia Cox, D. Scott Lumpkin
KEY CAST: Annette Bening, Jodie Foster, Rhys Ifans, Ethan Jones Romero, Luke Cosgrove, Jeena Yi, Eric T. Miller

SYNOPSIS:

A remarkable true story of tenacity, friendship and the triumph of the human spirit, NYAD recounts a riveting chapter in the life of world-class athlete Diana Nyad. Three decades after giving up marathon swimming in exchange for a prominent career as a sports journalist, at the age of 60, Diana (four-time Academy Award nominee Annette Bening) becomes obsessed with completing an epic swim that always eluded her: the 110 mile trek from Cuba to Florida, often referred to as the “Mount Everest” of swims. Determined to become the first person to finish the swim without a shark cage, Diana goes on a thrilling, four-year journey with her best friend and coach Bonnie Stoll (two-time Academy Award winner Jodie Foster) and a dedicated sailing team.

The inspirational and thrilling film marks the narrative directorial debut of Academy Award-winning documentary filmmakers Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi and Jimmy Chin (Free Solo, The Rescue). NYAD is produced by Andrew Lazar, p.g.a. and Teddy Schwarzman, p.g.a. with a screenplay by Julia Cox, adapted from the memoir “Find a Way” by Diana Nyad.

#FIRSTLOOK: TELEFILM CANADA SELECTS 13 NEW FEATURE-LENGTH ENGLISH FILMS

Telefilm Canada is announcing its funding commitment to 13 feature-length films in the English market under the Production Program (as part of the second round of decisions in the low budget minority co-production and big budget streams), for a total of $6 million.

Earlier this spring, Telefilm announced the selection of 12 feature-length film titles in the English market.

Anorgasmia (drama)

Director: Jon Gustafsson

Screenwriters: Karolina Lewicka and Jon Gustafsson

Production: Great Canadian Film Factory Inc.

Province: Manitoba

*coproduction Canada/Iceland

Death Has No Master (La Muerte No Tiene Dueño) (drama)

Director and screenwriter: Jorge Thielen Armand

Production: La Faena Films Inc.

Distribution: Game Theory Films

Province: Ontario

*coproduction Canada/France/Venezuela/Mexico

Granny Lee (drama)

Directors: Gabe Gabriel and Ian Gabriel

Screenwriter: Gabe Gabriel

Production: Fae Pictures Inc.

Distribution: Noble Arts Inc.

Province: Ontario

*coproduction Canada/South Africa/Ireland

Julián (drama/animation)

Director: Louise Bagnall

Screenwriter: Juliany Taveras

Production: Julian Aircraft Productions Inc.

Distribution: Elevation Pictures

Province: Ontario

*coproduction Canada/Ireland

The Myth of a Real Man (drama)

Director and screenwriter: Lee Filipovski

Production: Karma Film Inc.

Province: Saskatchewan

*coproduction Canada/Serbia/Bulgaria

Neverman (drama)

Director: Rodrigo Barriuso

Screenwriters: Rodrigo Barriuso and Kyah Green

Production: Hawkeye Pictures Inc.

Distribution: Sphere Films

Province: Ontario

Réveillon (historical drama)

Director: Michal Kunes Kováč

Screenwriters: Maroš Hečko, Tomáš Dušicka, and David Cormican

Production: DC Republic Productions Inc.

Province: Ontario

*coproduction Canada/Slovakia

Sick Heart River (drama)

Director and screenwriter: Graeme Maley

Production: 10614726 Canada Inc. and Vieille Amérique Inc.

Province: Quebec

*coproduction Canada/Iceland

Strangers in the Night (a.k.a. My Private War Criminal) (historical drama)

Director and screenwriter: Ivona Juka

Production: Quiet Revolution Pictures Inc.

Province: Ontario

*coproduction Canada/Croatia

Takotsubo (drama)

Director and screenwriter: Miki Polonski

Production: art et essai Inc.

Province: Quebec

*coproduction Canada/Israel

Things That You Kill (drama)

Director and screenwriter: Alireza Khatami

Production: Things That You Kill Inc. and Band With Pictures Film Inc.

Provinces: Ontario and Quebec

*coproduction Canada/France

Untitled Matt Johnson Project (comedy)

Director: Matt Johnson

Screenwriters: Matt Johnson and Jay McCarrol

Production: Zapruder Films Inc.

Distribution: Elevation Pictures

Province: Ontario

Yunan (drama)

Director and screenwriter: Ameer Fakher Eldin

Production: Microclimat Films Inc.

Distribution: Filmoption International

Province: Quebec

*coproduction Canada/Germany

More production funding decisions will be announced in the coming weeks. Statistics on all films funded in this fiscal year will be released once all funding decisions have been made. 

An advisory committee of external and internal representatives assessed the projects and made recommendations to Telefilm. The decision-making process considered Telefilm’s goal of fostering a diversity of voices in the industry, ensuring that Telefilm funds a balanced portfolio of productions that reflect a variety of genres, budgets and company sizes, regions of the country and points of view. Names of selection committee members will be published on the Project Financing Advisory Committees webpage once all funding decisions have been made.   

#TIFF23: 2023 INDUSTRY SELECTS LINEUP ANNOUNCED

TIFF is excited to share the 2023 Industry Selects lineup. Screening for accredited buyers during the Festival, this curated selection of 12 films go beyond the Official Selection, and are all available for worldwide acquisition. 

“As the media industry continues to evolve, TIFF strives to foster creative innovation in both the development and business of storytelling,” said Anita Lee, TIFF Chief Programming Officer. “We will continue to expand our successful Industry Selects initiative, a TIFF curated selection of films for the marketplace to find global audiences and are very excited to present a very high level calibre showcase.”

TIFF is also proud to announce new additions to the 2023 Industry Conference, with a dynamic array of Connections, Microsessions, and Spotlight sessions. TIFF’s Industry Conference is supported by Ontario Creates and Telefilm Canada. All sessions will take place at Glenn Gould Studio.

“Our Connections, Microsessions, and Spotlight sessions are intimate opportunities for professionals to learn from and connect with decision makers who can help forward their future projects and careers,” said Geoff Macnaughton, Senior Director, Industry & Theatrical. “They include a mix of curated and co-produced sessions designed to fuel co-production, sustainability, and responsible storytelling.”

2023 INDUSTRY SELECTS 

Amelia’s Children (Gabriel Abrantes, Portugal) 
Goodfellas, CAA
Diamantino co-director Gabriele Abrantes and star Carloto Cotta reunite for a Euro-Gothic creeper about an American and his girlfriend (Brigette Lundy-Paine) who discover he’s the long-lost heir to a Portuguese fortune, which comes with some very strange family ties.

Bonus Track (Julie Jackman, United Kingdom)
Bankside Films
Sixteen-year-old George Bobbin (Joe Anders) insists he’s a future pop star, although no one else in his tiny English town agrees. Then he meets the son (Samuel Paul Small) of a famous musical duo who helps him rehearse for their school’s talent show, leading both boys to grow closer creatively and personally.

Borderline (Jimmy Warden, United States)
CAA/Radiant
Los Angeles, 1996: Recovering from their last encounter, a devoted bodyguard (Eric Dane) must thwart the very persistent stalker (Ray Nicholson) of a Madonna-level pop star (Samara Weaving) when he breaks out of an institution and takes her hostage in her own home. 

The Boy in the Woods (Rebecca Snow, Canada) 
Myriad Pictures
Jett Klyne stars in the remarkable true-life story of Maxwell Smart, a Jewish boy who survived the Nazi occupation of Eastern Europe by hiding out in the forests of Poland.

Dance First (James Marsh, United Kingdom) 
Film Constellation  
Gabriel Byrne plays the literary giant Samuel Beckett in this biographical drama from Oscar-winner James Marsh (Man on Wire, The Theory of Everything), co-starring Sandrine Bonnaire, Maxine Peake, Aidan Gillen, and Fionn O’Shea.

The Home (James DeMonaco, United States)
CAA
The squishy new horror film from James DeMonaco, creator of the Purge series, stars Pete Davidson as a twentysomething screwup who’s assigned community service at a fancy retirement home and comes to suspect some very unpleasant things are going on upstairs. 

Inheritance (Neil Burger, United States/United Kingdom/Egypt/India) 
CAA
When Maya (Phoebe Dynevor) learns her father Sam (Rhys Ifans) was once a spy, she suddenly finds herself at the centre of an international conspiracy in this nervy, fast-moving thriller from director Neil Burger (The Illusionist, The Upside, Voyagers).

Les Hommes de Ma Mere (Anik Jean, Canada)
Jessie Films
After her mother’s death, Elsie (Léane Labrèche-Dor) sets out to find her five ex-husbands and scatter her ashes with each of them ― tracing her own history in the process, and seeing her mother’s life in an entirely new way. Directed by Anik Jean and co-starring Patrick Huard, Marc Messier, Colm Feore, and Anne-Marie Cadieux.

Orah (Lonzo Nzekwe, Canada) 
Orah Productions Inc.
When her teenaged son is murdered back home in Nigeria, a Toronto cabbie (Star Trek Discovery’s Oyin Oladejo) decides to bring down the international money launderers responsible for his death as violently as possible.

Queen of Bones (Robert Budreau, Canada/United States) 
CAA
Martin Freeman, Taylor Schilling, Julia Butters, and Jacob Tremblay star in this dark Depression-era folktale focused on twin siblings who suspect their father is hiding secrets about their deceased mother’s connection with the supernatural. Directed by Robert Budreau (Born to Be Blue, Stockholm).

Umbrella Men II: Escape from Robben Island (John Barker, South Africa) 
Africa Entertainment in America 
They pulled off the perfect heist, and went to prison anyway ― so now it’s up to the women of the Umbrella gang to orchestrate their escape from Robben Island Prison, in this sequel to John Barker’s 2022 crime comedy.

Vera and the Pleasure of Others (Romina Tamburello & Federic Actis, Argentina) 
m-Appeal
Vera (Luciana Grasso) is 17, and like any teenager, she divides her days between volleyball, school… and renting out an empty apartment in her mother’s building to classmates looking for a place to have sex. An inventive new look at desire and longing from directors Romina Tamburello and Federico Actis.

2023 Industry Conference Additions

CMPA Indiescreen Awards
Back at TIFF once again on Thursday, September 7, the Indiescreen Awards have recognized producers whose vision and entrepreneurship demonstrate a commitment and passion for producing Canadian feature films. Join CMPA and TIFF in acknowledging and celebrating the award recipients, followed by cocktails, food, and networking. The Indiescreen Awards are open to all registered delegates and are presented by the Canadian Media Producers Association (CMPA), in partnership with Telefilm Canada.

MICROSESSIONS
Collaborative programming with TIFF’s brand partners in sessions that emphasize the opportunities and expertise that many working professionals can gain from some of the world’s leading brands and cultural organizations. Microsessions include: 

• Turning on the Light in the Basement: From the Vaults to the Screens — Led by Iron Mountain Entertainment Services 
• Informed Choices: New Insights for Environmentally Sustainable Filmmaking — Led by Telefilm Canada
• Empowering Rising Voices: Advocating for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion through Film — Led by Indeed
• Transnational Cinema: Industry Perspectives from Quebec — Led by the Mel Oppenheimer School of Cinema at Concordia University and Grande Studios
• Your Next Film is a Co-pro with UK — Led by the British Film Institute
• Lights, Camera, Collaboration: ‘Orah’ and the Roadmap to a Nigeria-Canada Co-Production Treaty — Led by the Black Screen Office and supported by Ontario Creates

CONNECTIONS
Intimate networking sessions giving emerging to mid-career filmmakers the opportunity to interact with industry experts and gain practical knowledge to move their projects and understanding of the industry forward. The Media Partner for Connections is ok Playback. Connections sessions include: 

• Breaking barriers, shattering ceilings: Advancing accessibility and inclusion for people with disabilities in the screen industry
• Making Shorts That Get Seen  
• Disney’s Writing and Directing Programmes — Guest includes: Liz Kelly, Director of Creative Talent Development & Inclusion at Disney General Entertainment (DGE) 
• BAFTA: Navigating an International Career 
• Beyond Co-pros: Cross-border Collaborations & Funds for Canadians 
• Activating Grassroots Movements with Gold House

SPOTLIGHTS
A great way to expand one’s network, build bridges, and develop new business opportunities in Toronto. Spotlights are a collaboration with leading partner organizations, and are designed to maximize the B2B experience over a breakfast networking session. Sessions Include: 

• The Big Pitch presented by CaribbeanTales Media Group — 12 BIPOC Projects pitch to a live audience and jury for feedback and funding support. Funded by Telefilm in partnership with the Toronto International Film Festival.
• Do it the Spanish Way! International Co-production Forum — 5 Spanish film teams pitch development projects, with curated B2B speed meetings with Canadian and International professionals to follow. Led by ICEX España Exportación e Inversiones and ICAA Instituto de la Cinematografía y de las Artes Audiovisuales. 
• Explore the Northern Ontario Film Industry — Unlocking the sometimes untapped potential and lucrative benefits of Ontario’s north for producers and creators. Led by Cultural Industries Ontario North (CION).
• Polish Cinema at TIFF — This year’s selection of Polish cinema is unmatched. Connect with Polish talent, learn about incentives and benefits of co-production, and meet new talent. Powered by the Polish Film Institute.
• Everything Under the Sun and… More! — Appealing incentives, versatile locations, industry-friendly visas, amazing talent — everything Spain has to offer and more. Led by ICEX España Exportación e Inversiones.

Full session pitches will be available on tiff.net.

#TIFF23: SYLVESTER STALLONE TO APPEAR AT IN-CONVERSATION

TIFF is excited to announce Sylvester Stallone as the newest addition to the In Conversation With… (ICW) series for TIFF 2023. Stallone joins an illustrious roster of cinematic superstars including Pedro Almodóvar, Lee Byung-hun and Park Seo-jun, and Andy Lau. TIFF’s 2023 In Conversation With… is presented by Visa.

“The 2023 In Conversation With… series embodies our conviction that film possesses the remarkable ability to ignite perspectives and drive profound change,” said Anita Lee, TIFF Chief Programming Officer. “We are truly thrilled to extend a warm welcome to Sylvester Stallone and this lineup of icons. This series promises to captivate film aficionados of all genres.”

The subject of the highly anticipated Netflix original documentary Sly, Sylvester Stallone is a towering figure in cinema history. As a writer, director, actor, and producer, Stallone’s journey has mirrored the inspirational trajectory of his cinematic creations. His screenplay for Rocky (1976) and his raw portrayal of the titular underdog propelled him to superstardom and Academy Award nominations for acting and writing. The film went on to inspire one of the most successful and enduring movie franchises of all time, with five sequels and the Creed (2015) spinoffs. Stallone introduced the world to Vietnam veteran John Rambo in First Blood (1982). The sequel Rambo: First Blood Part II (1985) solidified the character as an iconic action hero and spawned multiple follow-ups and video games. As a director, Stallone captured the spirit of the original Rocky films and brought further depth to his title character in Rocky Balboa (2006). He delivered the knock-out blockbuster The Expendables (2010), directing the most impressive cast of action stars ever assembled. Alongside these classics are standout roles in Demolition Man (1993), Cliffhanger (1993), Cop Land (1997), and as Dwight Manfredi in the hit television show Tulsa King (2022) that together showcase his range and charisma. Stallone joins us to consider his prolific career, his immense contributions to the action genre, and his enduring legacy behind and in front of the camera.

Starting today, August 21, Visa Infinite cardholders will be given early access to secure tickets to TIFF 2023. For more information visit tiff.net.

#FIRSTLOOK: “REPTILE” NEW TRAILER

Having been announced at TIFF ’23, we’ve been so curious about REPTILE starring Benicio Del Toro, Justin Timberlake and Alicia Silverstone. What a Cast! Last week we got a glimpse at some new stills and now we get a Trailer! This is out October 6, 2023 to Netflix.

ABOUT REPTILE:
Director: Grant Singer
Writers: Screenplay – Grant Singer & Benjamin Brewer And Benicio Del Toro, Story – Grant Singer & Benjamin Brewer
Producers: Molly Smith, Trent Luckinbill, Thad Luckinbill
Executive Producers: Benicio Del Toro, Rick Yorn, Rachel Smith
Cast: Benicio Del Toro, Justin Timberlake, Eric Bogosian, Alicia Silverstone, Domenick Lombardozzi, Frances Fisher, Ato Essandoh, Michael Carmen Pitt, Karl Glusman, Matilda Lutz
Logline: Following the brutal murder of a young real estate agent, a hardened detective attempts to uncover the truth in a case where nothing is as it seems, and by doing so dismantles the illusions in his own life.

(Photo credit: Netflix)

#BOXOFFICE: “BLUE BEETLE” CRAWLS TO #1

BLUE BEETLE crawls to the crown in its opening weekend, de-throning BARBIE after a four weekends on-top. This latest adaptation from DC gets $25 million from 3,871 theatres and nonetheless this still is a victory for Warner Bros. which distributes both films. It gets 77% on the Tomatometer.

BARBIE settles in second, gets $21 million from 4,003 theatres, bringing its domestic run to $566 million.

In third is OPPENHEMIER with $10.9 million from 3,321 theatres, bringing its run to $285 million for Universal Pictures.

Debuting in fourth is STRAYS with $8.5 million from 3,223 theatres for Universal Pictures. Amidst its the SAG-AFTRA strike, its adorable canine cast stepped-out more than ably on the Red Carpet in Los Angeles earlier this week.

Fifth is TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES: MUTANT MAYHEM with $8.4 million, a two week total of $88 million for Paramount Pictures.