By Nicholas Porteous

In Joshua Oppenheimer‘s first narrative feature The End, our planet has become uninhabitable, and an opulent, extended family (Tilda Swinton, Michael Shannon, George MacKay, Bronagh Gallagher, Tim McInnerny and Lennie James) clings to existence in a salt mine. Their days are spent hanging paintings, tending to toy models of the past, and getting in a bit of exercise. If you’re feeling a bit aimless–in any aspect of your existence–wait til you meet these people. In spite of their rudderless lives, they seem pretty content–at least on the surface. They are still coping, to one degree or another, with their responsibility for how the end of the world went down, maintaining comforting narratives about their past lives. When an unexpected visitor appears (Moses Ingram), the family is forced to recalibrate everything they’ve taken for granted about their routine lifestyle and personal narratives. Did I mention it’s a Musical?

The End is, for better and worse, unlike most movies I’ve ever seen. It takes a classic post-apocalyptic premise and injects the whimsy of a musical, while maintaining a core sense of a drudging, daily existence leading nowhere. It’s paradoxically expansive–infused with generous, super wide frames full of characters and set design–and also deeply interior. Near-motionless. These isolated beings, trapped in a social bubble of their own design, come off like aliens, completely out of practice when it comes to connecting with others. It’s as charming as it is confounding. Michael Shannon is particularly compelling as the aloof patriarch, giving what is likely the most tender performance of his career.

Outside of its songs, there’s little to no attempt to fight the inertia of this dying world. The End is a movie that feels longer than it is, and refuses to weave its various character threads into a compelling shape, abandoning one subplot for the other as its runtime drags onward. It’s a perplexing experience. I’m glad I saw it at the festival on a giant screen with an excited audience, because it’s so singular, but I can’t recommend The End as anything beyond a big swing novelty that may very well leave you cold and tired.

The End screens at TIFF ’24:

Thursday September 12th at 9:00 PM at Scotiabank

Our fave part.of the Festival! We get to actually see movies and hello to friends!! Our Day Seven!

•Kaia Gerber and Kate Hudson at TIFF ’24 for SHELL
•Halina Reijn at TIFF ’24 for BABYGIRL
•Edward Burns, Christy Turlington, Juliana Margulies, Morena Baccarin, Ben McKenzie, Gretchen Mol, Benjamin Bratt and Patrick Wilson celebrating MILLERS IN MARRIAGE

…and Elevation Studios END OF BRAT SUMMER Bash!

Highlights here:

(Photo/video credit: Mr. Will Wong)

By Amanda Gilmore

Will Ferrell’s close friend of 30 years, Harper Steele, wrote him an email informing him that she’s coming out as a Trans woman. Shortly after, the two decided to embark on a cross-country road trip to process this new stage of their relationship.

Will and Harper’s friendship started on Saturday Night Live. She got hired as a Writer on the late-night show in 1995, the same week Will joined the Cast. Will & Harper is a very funny Documentary. Watching these two hilarious people on a road trip across America leads to many funny jokes and situations. Along their travels, they even check in with previous SNL cast members where more fun is to be had.

But the best part of Will & Harper is watching two close friends being completely open with each other. Will’s been open about knowing nothing about the trans community before Harper came out. This documentary captures the trust and honesty these two share. Harper is willing to answer any question Will has about her transition while Harper asks Will questions about his feelings regarding her transition. What Director Josh Greenbaum (Strays, Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar), Will, and Harper have created is a documentary that will change minds.

Will & Harper is an entertaining, heartwarming, and informative portrait of friendship, transition, and America.

Will & Harper screens at TIFF ’24:

Wednesday, September 11
Roy Thomson Hall
5:30 pm

Thursday, September 12
TIFF Lightbox
3:30 pm

Saturday, September 14
TIFF Lightbox
9:30 pm

By Mr. Will Wong

If you loved Michael Gracey‘s THE GREATEST SHOWMAN, there is plenty to love about Robbie Williams’ lively Biopic-Musical BETTER MAN.

While Robbie Williams dominated the Pop world internationally in the early 2000s, often he was a tabloid fixture. The former Take That member went on to achieve superstardom around the world after going solo and this dazzling spectacle manages to balance high energy with Williams‘ personal struggles including being bullied as a boy, his relationship with his father, his failed relationship with Nicole Appleton, to his battle with drug and alcohol addiction.

Though presenting as a monkey the entire film, Jonno Davies channels Williams’ essence perfectly and is fantastic nailing the physicality of the role in some ofthe Film’s demanding dance numbers. This decision helps visualize Williams‘ feelings of self-deprecation and inner voices constantly telling him he isn’t worthy.

We did feel the pacing was a bit rushed towards the end as Williams begins to face his demons and work on his relationship with his father, whereas much of the focus is spent on his trouble times. BETTER MAN still is a triumph for this icon and his fans, hitting the right notes late in a big finish and visually looking spectacular.

BETTER MAN screens at TIFF ’24:

Monday, September 9
Roy Thomson Hall
5:30 pm

Tuesday, September 10
Scotiabank Theatre Toronto
4:45 pm

Thursday, September 12
Scotiabank Theatre Toronto
5:30 pm

Saturday, September 14
Scotiabank Theatre Toronto
5:00 pm

Today, Nikon Canada Inc. announced the NIKKOR Z 50mm f/1.4, a lightweight prime lens with a wide and bright f/1.4 aperture. This affordable lens is compact enough to take anywhere, while offering a versatile and classic focal length that’s ideal for portraits, landscapes, street snaps, travel, still life and more.

The large f/1.4 aperture of this lens affords users the ability to create images and video with three-dimensional emphasis and naturally soft backgrounds that draw the viewers’ attention to a subject.

The NIKKOR Z 50mm f/1.4 lens features a compact, comfortable and lightweight design, measuring approximately 2.9 in x 3.4 in (74.5 × 86.5 mm) and weighing only 14.8 oz (420 g). The lens is engineered with a premium feel and superb handling, featuring a dedicated focus ring and customizable control ring.

Additional Features of the NIKKOR Z 50mm f/1.4:

• Close minimum focus distance lets users get as near as 14.5 in (0.37 m) from the subject, which is great for flowers, still life and food photography.
• Nine-blade diaphragm helps to create a natural, circular bokeh for a pleasing out of focus area.
• Focus breathing is effectively suppressed to minimize the shift of the angle of view when adjusting the focus.
• Near Silent operation for video production, with a click-less control ring and near silent lens drive thanks to the use of STM motors.
• Weather Sealed and designed with careful consideration for dust- and drip-resistant performance*.

Price and Availability
The new NIKKOR Z 50mm f/1.4 will be available in late September 2024 for a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of $679.95**. For more information about the latest Nikon products, including the extensive lineup of NIKKOR Z lenses and the entire range of Z series cameras, please visit Nikon.ca.

About Nikon
Nikon is a world leader in digital imaging, precision optics and technologies for photo and video capture; globally recognized for setting new standards in product design and performance for an award-winning array of equipment that enables visual storytelling and content creation. Nikon Canada Inc. distributes consumer and professional Z Series mirrorless camera, digital SLR cameras, a vast array of NIKKOR and NIKKOR Z lenses, Speedlights and system accessories, Nikon COOLPIX® compact digital cameras and Nikon software products. For more information visit www.nikon.ca, which links all levels of photographers and visual storytellers to the Web’s most comprehensive learning and sharing communities. Connect with Nikon Canada on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok and YouTube.

Culinary connoisseurs, prepare to be dazzled as the viral CEO of croissant tasting chef Romain Avril joins forces with chef Arnaud Bloquel for an extraordinary one-night evening of French culinary mastery exclusively at Restaurant Lucie, the fifth collaboration in the La Collab series. The France-born chefs promise to deliver a harmonious blend of classic French techniques and contemporary flavours, designed to tantalize the senses with a four course menu. Hosted on Thursday, October 3 from 6-8pm, tickets are priced at $285 per guest, inclusive of wine pairings and gratuity.

Chef Romain Avril
Born in Paris, chef Romain Avril discovered his passion for cooking at the age of thirteen. By seventeen, he was already working in a 1-MICHELIN Star restaurant in Brittany, France. After obtaining his bachelor’s degree in French and Chinese gastronomy, he honed his skills in MICHELIN-starred establishments across France and London. Since moving to Canada in 2010, chef Avril has become a prominent figure in Toronto’s culinary scene, holding roles such as Executive chef at La Société Bistro and launching his own ventures, including his highly anticipated new restaurant.

Chef Romain Avril is a social media sensation with his viral “serve it or trash it” series on TikTok, in which he gives his honest opinions on dishes as a renowned chef. He also is considered the CEO of croissant tasting with his very own croissant map, ranking the best croissants across Canada, the US, Australia and France.

“I don’t cook to feed people but to take them on a culinary adventure. What better way and an honour than sharing this voyage with chef Bloquel in a setting as beautiful as Yannick’s restaurant, Lucie?” says chef Romain Avril.

Chef Arnaud Bloquel
Chef Arnaud Bloquel’s culinary journey began in Guadeloupe, where he was deeply influenced by his culturally diverse family and French heritage. He refined his skills in France under the guidance of Michelin-starred chefs before returning to Guadeloupe to open his celebrated restaurant, l’Orchidea. Now at the helm of Restaurant Lucie in Toronto, chef Bloquel continues to push the boundaries of French cuisine, creating dishes that are both innovative and rooted in tradition.

“Collaborating with chef Avril for La Collab No.5 is an inspiring journey that blends our shared passion for French cuisine. Together, we’re creating a menu that honours tradition while pushing the boundaries of innovation, offering our guests a truly unique and memorable dining experience,” says Restaurant Lucie’s executive chef, Arnaud Bloquel.

Guests will indulge in a carefully curated menu but will also have a one-of-a-kind opportunity to engage with the chefs throughout the evening. Prepare to gain insight of their culinary inspirations, techniques, and artistry that go into crafting each dish, making the night truly unforgettable.

The evening begins with a complimentary glass of Mumm Cordon Rouge Champagne upon arrival. Guests will then enjoy a four-course dinner, with each dish expertly paired with selected wines to enhance the flavours and create a truly exceptional experience.

Please note that due to the specialized nature of the menu, dietary restrictions may not be accommodated. This event is for guests aged 19 and over.

Event Details

Date: Thursday, October 3

Time: 6:00PM – 8:00PM

Tickets: $285 per guest, inclusive of wine pairings and gratuity.

Tickets for this collaboration can be purchased HERE.

A special thank you to beverage sponsors San Pellegrino and G.H. Mumm Champagne.

Even at the half-way point, the star power still is electric at the Festival! Our Day Six sightings include:

•Zoe Saldana and Karla Sofia Gascon for EMILIA PEREZ

•Robbie Williams at TIFF ’24 for BETTER MAN

•Jason Reitman, Willem Dafoe, J.K. Simmons, Rachel Sennott, Gabriel LaBelle, Dylan O’Brien, Nicholas Braun, Ella Hunt, Kim Matula, Billy Bryk, Cory Michael Smith and more at TIFF ’24 for SATURDAY NIGHT

Highlights below:

(Photo/video credit: Mr. Will Wong)

Yerin Ha (she/her) (Dune: Prophecy, Halo) will play Sophie Baek. Sophie Baek has been forced to spend much of her life working as a maid for the most demanding employer in the ton. But the resourceful Sophie always finds a way to persevere through her circumstances — which will drastically change after she disguises herself to attend Violet Bridgerton’s masquerade ball and meets Benedict Bridgerton.

Logline: The fourth season of Bridgerton turns its focus to bohemian second son Benedict (Luke Thompson). Despite his elder and younger brothers both being happily married, Benedict is loath to settle down — until he meets a captivating Lady in Silver at his mother’s masquerade ball.
Episode Count: 8
Filming Location: London, UK
Showrunner/ EP: Jess Brownell
Executive Producers: Shonda Rhimes, Betsy Beers, Tom Verica, and Chris Van Dusen

(Photo credit: Nick Walters)

Official TIFF ’24 selection MEGALOPOLIS gets another new Trailer! The latest from Francis Ford Coppola, is in theatres September 27, 2024 via Cineplex Pictures.

Details:

Directed by: Francis Ford Coppola
Cast: Adam Driver, Giancarlo Esposito, Nathalie Emmanuel
Synopsis: MEGALOPOLIS is a Roman Epic set in an imagined Modern America. The City of New Rome must change, causing conflict between Cesar Catilina (Adam Driver), a genius artist who seeks to leap into a utopian, idealistic future, and his opposition, Mayor Franklyn Cicero (Giancarlo Esposito), who remains committed to a regressive status quo, perpetuating greed, special interests, and partisan warfare. Torn between them is socialite Julia Cicero (Nathalie Emmanuel), the mayor’s daughter, whose love for Cesar has divided her loyalties, forcing her to discover what she truly believes humanity deserves.

About Cineplex Pictures
Cineplex Pictures, a division of Cineplex, is a distributor of a wide range of genre films. Recent titles include Borderlands, The Strangers: Chapter 1, The Queen of My Dreams, The Boy and the Heron, The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes, SAW X, Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret, and John Wick: Chapter 4.

By Nicholas Porteous

Mia (Elizabeth Olsen) and her partner Aaryan (Himesh Patel) want a child. The only problem—they’re living in a dystopian future, the planet is a wreck, and the government has decided any would-be parents must be assessed up front. The criteria for a pass into parenthood is unclear, and the test is designed that way, but the decision is made by assessors, who spend several days observing, testing and judging their subjects. Enter Virginia (Alicia Vikander), a steely-eyed, humourless agent who—when she isn’t probing our leads with questions—takes on the physicality and persona of an extremely difficult child. Throwing food, picking fights, peeing in things that aren’t toilets—it’s all part of The Assessment, which squanders an interesting premise on a questionable group of characters.

It’s difficult to buy into the stakes of the film—whether or not our couple will be granted the right to conceive—because The Assessment doesn’t show any evidence these people actually love—or even like—each other, beyond lip service. There’s no chemistry here, and in fact they spend most of their time becoming less and less invested in each other—not much of a leap from where they begin. The Assessment also features a very troubling depiction of sexual assault, and seems to be implicitly blaming the victim for a crime that’s not their fault in any way. Olsen manages to find an interesting balance between the absurd world she lives in, and the gravity of her desire to bring another human into it. Further evidence she can make anything work. Meanwhile, Patel spends a good deal of his screen time in a big empty virtual room, reciting random numbers and commands that we aren’t supposed to understand in an effort to make digital fur texture feel just right. Vikander makes big swings in every scene, whether she’s pretending to be a kid or a rigid bureaucrat with no bedside manner, but I found her performance too mannered, and it’s impossible to empathize after a scene in the latter half of the Film. My assessment: you already know.

The Assessment screens at TIFF ‘24:

Friday September 13th at 2:00 PM at Scotiabank

Saturday September 14th at 2:45 PM at Scotiabank