Paramount+ debuted first-look imagery (above) and a tease for the highly anticipated original series LAWMEN: BASS REEVES. Premiering this fall in the U.S. and all Paramount+ international markets, the anthology series stars executive producer and Emmy Award nominee David Oyelowo, Lauren E. Banks, Demi Singleton, Forrest Goodluck, Barry Pepper, Honorary Oscar recipient Donald Sutherland and Emmy Award nominee Dennis Quaid. Executive produced by Oscar nominee Taylor Sheridan and created for television by executive producer and showrunner Chad Feehan, the eight-episode season is produced by MTV Entertainment Studios, 101 Studios, Sheridan’s Bosque Ranch Productions and Oyelowo’s Yoruba Saxon exclusively for Paramount+.

LAWMEN: BASS REEVES will bring the legendary lawman and outlaws of the Wild West to life. Reeves (Oyelowo), known as the greatest frontier hero in American history, worked in the post-Reconstruction era as a federal peace officer in the Indian Territory, capturing over 3,000 of the most dangerous criminals without ever being wounded. LAWMEN: BASS REEVES is an anthology series with future iterations that will follow other iconic lawmen and outlaws who have impacted history.

The cast also includes Shea Whigham and Garrett Hedlund as guest stars, and, in recurring roles, Joaquina Kalukango, Lonnie Chavis, Grantham Coleman, Tosin Morohunfola, Dale Dickey, Rob Morgan, Ryan O’Nan, Margot Bingham Mo Brings Plenty, Justin Hurtt-Dunkley and Bill Dawes.

In addition to Sheridan, Feehan and Oyelowo, the series is also executive produced by David C. Glasser, Jessica Oyelowo, David Permut, Christina Alexandra Voros, Ron Burkle, Bob Yari and David Hutkin.

Let’s go to The EX! Ontario’s favourite fair and end-of-summer rite of passage returns in just over a week to delight, and indulge the senses. This year, the Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) will feature an all-new Superwheel, the first and largest observation ride of its kind to grace the Toronto skyline. The 150-ft tall wheel features 36 enclosed observation pods that deliver spectacular 360 views of the city day or night. Whether it’s people watching high atop the CNE Midway, soaring high above to catch the nightly drone show, or getting aerial views of the CNE’s new fountain extravaganza Sparkling Symphony — the Superwheel is sure to become one of the most Instagrammable spots in the city.

More NEW attractions include the Monster Compound, featuring Monster Energy’s Skateboard Team showing off on a custom halfpipe, DJs and a Barber Shop offering complimentary cuts and styling (located at the north end of Bandshell Park); and a Cirque-tacular Spectacular outdoor acrobatic and trampoline show outside of the Enercare Centre. Sashay this way to the CNE for Toronto drag queen icon Tynomi Banks who will be joined by fellow queens Mo Heart, Jan Sport and Ivory Towers for an all-out Drag EXtravaganza (Aug. 29), bringing drag to the CNE Bandshell Stage for the first time ever; and award-winning duo the fabulous Fay & Fluffy will bring their famed drag storytime to the all-new Storybook Nook in Kids’ World.

Returning favourites are bigger and better than ever including the nightly Drone Show Presented by VinFast with more drones and impressive new formations to light up the night sky; and Gaming Garage Sponsored by Intel, which is getting a makeover to include even more free games and new tournaments with larger prize pools such as Street Fighter 6 Tournament (Aug. 19 & 20), Valorant Tournament (Aug. 26) and League of Legends Tournament (Aug. 27).

Elvis Stojko is back in the building (Cola-Cola Coliseum) with an all-new ice skating and acrobatic show; Food Truck Frenzy and Celebrity Kitchen Stage will inspire and tantalize the taste buds; and the Canadian International Air Show will close out another spectacular season with the beloved Snowbirds, U.S. Navy Blue Angels, and returning fan-favourites showcasing skill, strength, and speed over Lake Ontario on Labour Day Weekend.

2023 HIGHLIGHTS AT A GLANCE:

NEW: SuperWheel – North America’s tallest travelling ferris wheel is coming to the CNE! The Superwheel is truly an elevated experience unlike any other soaring 150-feet in the sky. Escape the heat and bustle of the Midway to enjoy unparalleled lake and city views inside one of its 36 climate-controlled observation pods that comfortably seat 4 to 6 guests. (South of the Midway).

NEW: Sparkling Symphony – The CNE’s new Vegas-style fountain show “Sparkling Symphony” is a daily choreographed aquatic spectacle on Lake Ontario combining high-energy music with 11 fountains and dancing streams of water soaring as high as 100ft in the air, with colour-changing lights and lasers to illuminate the show at night. (Daily, 1:30, 3:30, 5:30 & 8 pm, Lake Ontario).

EXTENDED: The Pink Floyd Exhibition: Their Mortal Remains – The CNE and S2BN Entertainment are co-presenters of the Toronto premiere of this globally acclaimed exhibition on one of the greatest bands of all time. Visitors can embark on a chronological journey through Pink Floyd’s storied history from 1976 to the 2000s, featuring 350+ artifacts, personal memorabilia including instruments and handwritten lyrics, album art covers, and iconic songs from their ground-breaking catalogue through an audio-visual experience. Tickets to The Pink Floyd Exhibition (which includes CNE admission) can be purchased in advance at www.TheEx.com or www.PinkFloydExhibition.com, or on-site during the Fair. (Better Living Centre).

Nightly Drone Show Presented by Vinfast – Once the sun sets, the drones rise, and the skies above the Food Building are transformed into a mesmerizing symphony of dancing lights. Get ready to be captivated by 100+ dazzling drones creating a breathtaking display of colours and images that will leave visitors in awe. Designed by masters of drone formation spectacles, North Star Entertainment, the nightly drone show is back by popular demand. (Nightly at 10:15pm, above the Food Building).

4th Annual Gaming Garage sponsored by Intel – Level up your gaming experience at the Innovation Garage and Gaming Garage sponsored by Intel, which is in its 5th year as a live event and popular attraction. Gamers of all levels can immerse in free play, pinball tournaments, competitive esports and video game tournaments to win up to $8,500, VR experiences, or show off their moves on the video game dance floor. A Robotics Competition will also take place September 2- 4, where contestants and their creations will spar head-to head to determine which bot will take the crown, along with other competitive showcases from start-ups, student video game creators, and more. (Daily, Enercare Centre, Hall B).

NEW – Monster Compound Experience – Monster Energy is taking over the Bandshell Park with the all-new Monster Compound featuring daily performances from the Monster Energy Skateboard Team riding a custom-built halfpipe, live DJ performances, racing simulators, and even the chance to grab a free fresh fade from the Monster Barber Shop! (Daily, 12pm – 7pm, Bandshell Park).

NEW – Ice Skating and Acrobatic Show: Time Flies – World class ice skaters, extreme skaters and circus artists will hit the ice with dazzling performances. Travel through the last 12 decades with the help of popular songs that have stood the test of time. This high energy show will feature special guest Elvis Stojko, a three-time World Champion, two-time Olympic silver medalist and seven-time Canadian champion. (Daily, 2 pm & 5 pm, Cola-Cola Coliseum).

2023 CNE Bandshell Line-Up – Six-time GRAMMY-winner Dionne Warwick will delight fans on the only Canadian stop on her North American Tour this summer at the CNE. 2023 Bandshell headliners include platinum-selling powerhouse Amanda Marshall, nine-time JUNO winning artist Jann Arden, Bollywood music icon Shafqat Amanat Ali, legendary reggae songstress Marcia Griffiths, singer-songwriter William Prince, and fellow country superstar Brett Kissel. In addition to marquee acts, this year’s CNE Bandshell will present special tribute nights and themed concerts such as a not-to-be-missed show Drag EXtravaganza starring Canada’s Drag Race Tynomi Banks; and a celebration of 50 years of hip hop with Toronto’s own Kardinal Offishall, Choclair, and the first woman to win the Juno Award for Best Rap Album, Haviah Mighty. All CNE Bandshell concerts are FREE with CNE admission. (Daily, 7:30pm, Bandshell Stage).

NEW – Echoes of Entertainment: A Concert History of the CNE – Step into a mesmerizing world of musical nostalgia with “Echoes of Entertainment: Concert History at the Canadian National Exhibition.” Immerse yourself in a captivating photographic journey, where the past comes alive through a spectacular showcase of the CNE’s iconic concerts, accompanied by an enchanting collection of music. Behold the iconic talent that graced the unforgettable CNE stages, including the likes of the incomparable Freddie Mercury, the legendary Louis Armstrong, the dynamic duo of Sonny & Cher, and the sensational Jackson 5, among many others. (Daily, 12pm to 9pm, Withrow Common).

ON Now! CNE Casino Presented by Pokerstars – A popular annual draw, the CNE Casino presented by PokerStars features a variety of games including Blackjack, Lucky Ladies, Spanish 21, Hold’Em Bonus Poker, Omaha Poker, 3-Card Poker, No Commission Mini Baccarat, Roulette, and a private air-conditioned Texas Hold’Em Poker Room! (Better Living Centre).

Celebrity Kitchen Stage – Celebrity Kitchen Stage returns this year with some of Toronto’s favourite restauranteurs and TV personalities. Get tips and recipes from the impressive culinary skills from the likes of Canada’s Top Chef judge Mark McEwan and 2023 winner of Canada’s Top ChefTre Sanderson, Food Network Canada’s Fire master’s Cindy Fung, and Masterchef Canada judge Claudio Aprile. Get inspired with new cuisines and new chefs each day on the Celebrity Kitchen Stage. (Daily, 1pm & 4pm, Enercare Centre Hall A).

Food Truck Frenzy & Craft Beer Fest – Everyone’s favourite food truck festival is back! This year’s Frenzy will feature more than 20 vendors offering global fare from perogies to Indian Rasoi, Caribbean cuisine to authentic Mexican food, and a variety of local craft brews to wash it all down. (Aug. 19 – Sep 4, Princes’ Blvd).

Immersive Art Experience – A Trip Through 103: Therapy for the Soul – Visitors can take a transformative trip through Salon 103 inside the Enercare Centre to be immersed in a sensory art experience unlike any other. Feel and bask in the surroundings of generative laser art projections courtesy of Scott Draves and the Electric Sheep, mixed with original music and live performance art including dance by Alina Christensen and violinist Dr. Draw. (Daily, 10am – 10pm, Enercare Centre, Salon 103).

74th Annual Canadian International Air Show – Canada’s largest and longest running air show is back with its soaring aerial spectacle! The beloved Canadian Forces Snowbirds, Yak-50, and CF-18s return to dazzle crowds; and the thrilling U.S. Navy Blue Angels will electrify audiences with a captivating show. (Sept. 2, 3 & 4, from 12pm – 3pm, Waterfront, south of Bandshell Park).

The CNE Foundation Grand CNE 50/50 is back! – The CNE Foundation supports the urgent need to digitize and preserve the historically and culturally significant images of the CNE’s archival collection, including thousands of photo negatives that are at risk of being lost forever. In addition to the CNE Archives Project, the Foundation supports various youth and community programs, as well as the Smiles of Faces Program that provides all-expense-paid visits to the CNE each summer for 25 vulnerable children and their families. Support the Foundation for a chance to win BIG in this year’s Grand CNE 50/50 fundraiser with a $100,000 guaranteed minimum cash Grand Prize and more; and check out the new Silent Auction to bid on great auction items and CNE memorabilia. Visit CNEfoundation.com or CNEF5050.com for more information.

SuperDogs – SuperDogs are back again this year with their new show Barkade! Jump into the world of video games and animation as the SuperDogs take the stage and perform adorable tricks and entertain with their unique personalities. (Daily, 2:00, 4:30 & 6:30pm with an additional show at 12 (noon) on the weekends, Enercare Centre Hall D).

NEW – National Geographic Exhibit – National Geographic’s all-new exhibit: Pristine Seas, highlights the importance of marine protected areas through photography and film. Visitors will get a lens-view of the NatGeo team’s expeditions from the colourful and vital coral reefs of the Southern Line Islands to the melting icebergs of the Antarctic. (Arts and Crafts Pavilion).

NEW – Selfie Hallway – With plenty of Instagram-worthy moments to capture from the crazy foods to the views from the SuperWheel and Sky Ride, the CNE is giving visitors even more to smile about. Take a selfie with all-new creations including a giant floral aquarium, an 8-ft tall shimmer wall, and oversized models of iconic CNE foods such as a giant cotton candy and ice cream waffle. (Enercare Centre, East side Heritage Court).

NEW – Cirque-tacular Spectacular – Combining trampoline, gymnastics, and aerial acrobatics, the Cirque-tacular Spectacular is a high-energy show that will wow audiences of all ages. (Outside of Enercare Centre Hall B).

The Mississaugas of the Credit First Nations Exhibit – Visit the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation’s booth for games and an interactive experience focused on their rich history and culture. A daily activity schedule will be posted each morning at the booth and on its social media page at Facebook.com/MNCFN. (Enercare Centre, Heritage Court).

Shopping at the CNE – With more than 700+ retailers from fashion brands to global artisans and Canadian-made products, visitors can shop ‘til they drop at the CNE throughout the grounds. Check out the international markets and warehouse sales inside the Enercare Centre, shop from hand-made and local products at the Arts & Hobbies Building, or find great deals among the outdoor vendors at almost every corner.

The 144th annual CNE takes place from August 18 to September 4, 2023 at Exhibition Place in Toronto, Canada.

General Admission
Advance Tickets (purchased before Aug. 18): $20
General Admission (14 to 64 years): $25
Adults 65 & Better: $20
Children (ages 5 to 13): $20
Children 4 & under: FREE
CNE Family Pass (2 adults & 2 children or 1 adult & 3 children): $75

*Plus HST and applicable fees. To purchase tickets, ride passes, and for more information on discounts and promotions, go to www.TheEx.com

About the Canadian National Exhibition
The Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) is governed by the Canadian National Exhibition Association (CNEA), comprised of a volunteer Board of Directors. The CNEA is responsible for the planning and presentation of the annual Canadian National Exhibition at Exhibition Place in Toronto, Ontario. Founded in 1879, the CNE generates an economic impact of approximately $112 million for the Greater Toronto Area and $142 million for the province of Ontario each year (when in operation). In 2022, the CNE attracted 1.56 million visitors over its 18-day fair.

Telefilm Canada announces seven French-language feature film titles receiving funding under the Production Program (second round of decisions in the big budget stream), for a total of $3.8 million.

Previously, Telefilm announced the selection of eight French-language feature film titles.

Deux femmes en or (comedy)

Director: Chloé Robichaud

Screenwriter: Catherine Léger

Production: Vieille Amérique Inc.

Distribution: Maison4tiers

*coproduction Canada/France

Kaboul Montréal (drama)

Director: Bachir Bensaddek

Screenwriter: Marie Vien

Production: Caramel Film Inc.

Distribution: Maison4tiers

Le train (drama)

Director and
screenwriter: Marie Brassard

Production: Microclimat Films Inc.

Distribution:
Axia Films

Nervures (horror)

Director: Raymond St-Jean

Screenwriters: Martin Girard and Raymond St-Jean

Production: 1976 Productions Inc.

Distribution: Axia Films

Cap Farewell (drama)

Director and screenwriter: Vanja
d’Alcantara

Production: Corporation de développement et de production ACPAV Inc.

Distribution: Maison4tiers

*coproduction
Belgium/Canada/Netherlands

L’héritier des secrets (drama)

Director: Mohamed Nadif

Screenwriters: Mohamed Nadif and Olivier
Coussemacq

Production: Objectif 9 Inc.

Distribution:
Filmoption International

*coproduction Morocco/Canada

Ma mère, Dieu et Sylvie Vartan (drama)

Director and screenwriter: Ken Scott

Production: 9492-2663 Québec Inc (Christal Films Productions Inc.)

Distribution: Opale Films

*coproduction France/Canada

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

Today, the Toronto International Film Festival® announced this year’s Short Cuts lineup, supported by Ontario Arts Council, showcasing 42 live action narrative, documentary, and animated shorts by a groundbreaking group of filmmakers representing 23 countries. More than half of this year’s selections are directed or co-directed by female and female-identifying filmmakers. TIFF alumni directors with new films at Short Cuts include Yann Demange, Jasmin Mozaffari, Miryam Charles, Farnoosh Samadi, Halima Ouardiri, Renee Zhan, Andrea Nirmala Widjajanto, and the team of Ivete Lucas and Patrick Bresnan. Among the directors with short films at the Festival for the first time are Malia Ann and Canadian actor Mackenzie Davis. Among the notable performers in this year’s slate of new shorts are Riz Ahmed (DAMMI) and Kaniehtiio Horn (Redlights).

A robust selection of new animated short films will be showcased in the programme this year. Animated films in Short Cuts include the North American Premieres of 27, recipient of the Short Film Palme d’Or at this year’s Cannes Film Festival, and Electra, director Daria Kashcheeva’s stunning follow-up to Daughter, an Academy Award nominee for Best Animated Short and a Short Cuts selection in 2019. Three animated shorts at this year’s Festival are This is TMI by India’s Subarna Dash and Vidushi Gupta, Mboa Matanda by Cameroon’s Jules Kalla Eyango, and Aphasia by Canada’s Marielle Dalpé.

Along with remarkable new works by international filmmakers, Short Cuts includes 19 selections by Canadian filmmakers, including World Premieres of films by Marni Van Dyk (This is Not About Swimming), Eva Thomas (Redlights), Karsten Wall (Modern Goose), and Ivan D. Ossa (Express).

“We are thrilled to be able to present such a diverse array of incredible new works by emergent and established film talents from all over the world,” said Short Cuts lead programmer Jason Anderson. “We were knocked out by the level of craft and ingenuity in these films, as well as the boldness displayed by so many filmmakers as they explore subjects and themes that couldn’t be timelier or more personal. That’s especially true of the films we’re grateful to present that are by female and female-identifying filmmakers, which comprise nearly 60 percent of this year’s selection.”

Short Cuts is also the first place where TIFF audiences discovered many of world cinema’s most acclaimed filmmakers, including such recent breakout talents as Charlotte Wells (Aftersun), Saim Sadiq (Joyland), and Luis De Filippis (Something You Said Last Night). Short Cuts alumni directors with first features at this year’s Festival include Fawzia Mirza (The Queen of My Dreams) and Nora El Hourch (Sisterhood).

The 2023 Short Cuts lineup includes 21 World Premieres, 13 North American Premieres, and 5 International Premieres presented in 19 different languages, with a breadth of new and unique perspectives.

SHORT CUTS PROGRAMME 1

DAMMI Yann Mounir Demange | France
North American Premiere

La Perra Carla Melo Gampert | Colombia/France
North American Premiere

Been There Corina Schwingruber Ilić | Switzerland
International Premiere

Primetime Mother Sonny Calvento | Philippines/Singapore
World Premiere

Meteor Atefeh Khademolreza | Canada
World Premiere

Nun or Never! Heta Jäälinoja | Finland
North American Premiere

Gaby’s Hills Zoé Pelchat | Canada
North American Premiere

SHORT CUTS PROGRAMME 2

Fár Gunnur Martinsdóttir Schlüter | Iceland
North American Premiere

The Skates Halima Ouardiri | Canada
World Premiere

Bloom Kasey Lum | Canada
World Premiere

Nada de todo esto Francisco Cantón, Patricio Martínez | Argentina/Spain/USA
North American Premiere

1001 Nights Rea Rajčić | Croatia
World Premiere

Redlights Eva Thomas | Canada
World Premiere

Electra Daria Kashcheeva | Czech Republic/France/Slovakia
North American Premiere

SHORT CUTS PROGRAMME 3

This is TMI Subarna Dash, Vidushi Gupta | India
International Premiere

Titanic, Suitable Version for Iranian Families Farnoosh Samadi | Iran/France
World Premiere

All the Days of May Miryam Charles | Canada
Canadian Premiere

Bird Ana Cristina Barragán | Ecuador/Spain
World Premiere

Aftercare Anubha Momin | Canada
World Premiere

Shé (Snake) Renee Zhan | United Kingdom
World Premiere

Human Resources Trinidad Plass Caussade, Titouan Tillier, Isaac Wenzek | France
Canadian Premiere

Making Babies Eric K. Boulianne | Canada
North American Premiere

SHORT CUTS PROGRAMME 4

Alberto and the Beast John Paul Lopez-Ali | USA
World Premiere

Mboa Matanda Jules Kalla Eyango | Cameroon
World Premiere

Mothers and Monsters Edith Jorisch | Canada
World Premiere

Express Ivan D. Ossa | Canada
World Premiere

Baigal Nuur – Lake Baikal Alisi Telengut | Germany/Canada
North American Premiere

The Passing Ivete Lucas, Patrick Xavier Bresnan | USA
North American Premiere

SHORT CUTS PROGRAMME 5

WOACA Mackenzie Davis | United Kingdom
World Premiere

A Bird Called Memory Leonardo Martinelli | Brazil/United Kingdom
North American Premiere

Sawo Matang Andrea Nirmala Widjajanto | Canada/Indonesia/USA
World Premiere

Aphasia Marielle Dalpé | Canada
World Premiere

Ever Since, I Have Been Flying Aylin Gökmen | Switzerland
International Premiere

I Used to Live There Ryan McKenna | Canada
North American Premiere

This is Not About Swimming Marni Van Dyk | Canada
World Premiere

SHORT CUTS PROGRAMME 6

27 Flóra Anna Buda | France/Hungary
North American Premiere

Xie Xie, Ollie James Michael Chiang | Canada
World Premiere

The Heart Malia Ann | USA
International Premiere

6 Minutes Per Kilometer Catherine Boivin | Canada
Toronto Premiere

Modern Goose Karsten Wall | Canada
World Premiere

Sheephead Spencer Creigh | USA
International Premiere

Motherland Jasmin Mozaffari | Canada
World Premiere

Chloe Domont‘s FAIR PLAY arrives October 13, 2023 only on Netflix. See the new Trailer.

Synopsis:

An unexpected promotion at a cutthroat hedge fund pushes a young couple’s relationship to the brink, threatening to unravel far more than their recent engagement.

DIRECTOR: Chloe Domont

WRITTEN BY: Chloe Domont

PRODUCED BY: Leopold Hughes and Ben LeClair for T-Street, Tim White, Trevor White and Allan Mandelbaum for Star Thrower

EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS: Ram Bergman and Rian Johnson for T-Street, Chloe Domont, Anđelka Vlaisavljević

Produced In Partnership with MRC

CAST: Phoebe Dynevor, Alden Ehrenreich, Eddie Marsan

(Photo/video credit: Netflix)

Disney+ revealed that five new “I Am Groot” shorts are heading to the streamer beginning Sept. 6, 2023.

The troublemaking twig returns to mischief in the second season of “I Am Groot.” This time, Baby Groot finds himself exploring the universe and beyond aboard the Guardians’ spaceships, coming face-to-face—or nose-to-nose—with new and colourful creatures and environments. Vin Diesel is back as the voice of Groot in five all-new shorts. Kirsten Lepore, writer/director of season one, returns in the same capacity for season two. The supervising producer is Danielle Costa; producers are Craig Rittenbaum and Alex Scharf; executive producers are Brad Winderbaum, Kevin Feige, Louis D’Esposito, Victoria Alonso and Kirsten Lepore. Dana Vasquez-Eberhardt is co-executive producer.

(Photo/video credit: Marvel Studios Canada/Disney)

TIFF is delighted to announce Sly as the Closing Night Gala for the 48th edition of the Festival. A vivid exploration of an illustrious life woven through the silver screen, this remarkable documentary about actor, writer, director, and producer Sylvester Stallone will have its World Premiere on Saturday, September 16, 2023 at Roy Thomson Hall.

“Stallone’s story is one of perseverance, triumph, and his indelible mark left on the world of film, and we couldn’t be more honoured to share it with our audiences as our Closing Night film,” said Cameron Bailey, TIFF CEO. “Celebrating the legacy of a true icon, Sly takes audiences on an intimate journey through the life of Stallone, a cultural touchstone whose impact on cinema spans nearly half a century. Sly offers an unexpected and heartfelt exploration of the man behind the action megastar.”

Directed by Thom Zimny (Springsteen on Broadway, Elvis Presley: The Searcher), Sly is an intimate and unexpected look at the early life of the action megastar as well as a reflection on his career that spans nearly 50 years.

Sly shows Stallone’s rough beginnings in New York City as a troubled kid who’d escape his angry household to watch movies all day and then come home to write scripts himself. Zimny leads Stallone through his rollercoaster career, which exploded when Rocky — a role he had to fight to play, despite having written the now iconic movie — catapulted him to a level of stardom for which he was entirely unprepared.

The documentary takes this storied filmography and juxtaposes it with Stallone’s personal journey, exploring how his inspirational underdog story informed both the indelible characters he has brought to life and the man
he has become. There are highs and there are lows. There are regrets and there are triumphs. But Stallone has kept punching.

Lovingly deemed a legend of the action genre, Sylvester Stallone gained international acclaim with his portrayal of Rocky and Rambo, with both projects becoming highly successful franchises over multiple decades. Other film credits include Demolition Man, Cliffhanger, Cop Land, Escape Plan, and more recently The Expendables and Creed, which earned Stallone an Academy Award nomination in 2016. Stallone currently stars in the hit series Tulsa King, which has been renewed for a second season.

The film is produced by Sean Stuart, and executive produced by Braden Aftergood, Bill Zanker, Sam Delcanto, Jon Beyer, Tom Forman, Jenny Daly, and Stallone.

Sly will officially close the 2023 Toronto International Film Festival on September 16, 2023.

Universal Pictures Canada x Mr. Will want to give Readers a chance to win passes to an Advance Screening of STRAYS.

Advance screenings will be held Wednesday, August 16, 2023 at 7 pm in:

Toronto: Scotiabank Theatre
Montreal (EN): Cinema Banque Scotia
Vancouver: Scotiabank Theatre

Synopsis:

They say a dog is a man’s best friend, but what if the man is a total dirtbag? In that case, it might be time for some sweet revenge, doggy style. When Reggie (Will Ferrell), a naïve, relentlessly optimistic Border Terrier, is abandoned on the mean city streets by his lowlife owner, Doug (Will Forte; The Last Man on Earth, Nebraska), Reggie is certain that his beloved owner would never leave him on purpose. But once Reggie falls in with a fast-talking, foul-mouthed Boston Terrier named Bug (Oscar® winner Jamie Foxx), a stray who loves his freedom and believes that owners are for suckers, Reggie finally realizes he was in a toxic relationship and begins to see Doug for the heartless sleazeball that he is. Determined to seek revenge, Reggie, Bug and Bug’s pals—Maggie (Isla Fisher; Now You See Me, Wedding Crashers), a smart Australian Shepherd who has been sidelined by her owner’s new puppy, and Hunter (Randall Park; Always Be My Maybe, Aquaman), an anxious Great Dane who’s stressed out by his work as an emotional support animal—together hatch a plan and embark on an epic adventure to help Reggie find his way home … and make Doug pay by biting off the appendage he loves the most. (Hint: It’s not his foot). A subversion of the dog movies we know and love, Strays, directed by Josh Greenbaum (Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar) and written by Dan Perrault (Players, American Vandal), is a hilarious, R-rated, live-action comedy about the complications of love, the importance of great friendships, and the unexpected virtues of couch humping. Featuring a powerhouse comedic supporting cast—including Grammy winner Josh Gad (Beauty and the Beast), Harvey Guillén (Puss in Boots: The Last Wish), Emmy nominee Rob Riggle (The Hangover), Brett Gelman (Stranger Things), Jamie Demetriou (The Afterparty), and Emmy nominee Sofia Vergara (Modern Family)—Strays is produced by Picturestart founder and CEO Erik Feig (Luckiest Girl Alive, Cha Cha Real Smooth), by Louis Leterrier (director Fast X, The Clash of the Titans), by Dan Perrault (Players, American Vandal) and by Lord Miller partners Phil Lord and Chris Miller (Spider-Man: Into The Spider-Verse, The Lego Movie 2: The Second Part) and Lord Miller President of Film Aditya Sood (The Martian, Cocaine Bear). The film is executive produced by Jessica Switch, Nikki Baida and Julia Hammer.

To enter for a chance to win, click “like” on this Post at MR. WILL ON FACEBOOK. In the comments there, indicate for us your City. Re-Tweet the below for an extra chance. And guess what? We’re now on Threads! You can enter there too! Be sure to follow!

Universal Pictures Canada release STRAYS August 18, 2023.

Rules and regulations here.

(Photo/video credit: Universal Pictures Canada)

Netflix’s THE MONEY KING will get a theatrical release before its run on the streaming service.

Participating theatres:

BRITISH COLUMBIA:
Vancouver: Cineplex Odeon International Village Cinemas

ONTARIO:
Toronto: Cineplex Cinemas Yonge-Dundas and VIP

QUEBEC:
Montreal: Cineplex Odeon Quartier Latin and Cinéma Guzzo Méga-Plex Sphèretech 14

Synopsis:

Inspired by an epic Chinese tale, translated into an action-packed comedy, a Monkey and his magical fighting Stick battle demons, dragons, gods and the greatest adversary of all —Monkey’s own ego!

Directed by: Anthony Stacchi (The Boxtrolls, Open Season)
Produced by: Peilin Chou (Over the Moon, Abominable)
Executive Producer: Stephen Chow (Kung Fu Hustle, Shaolin Soccer)
Written by: Ron J. Friedman, Stephen Bencich (Open Season, Chicken Little) and Rita Hsiao (Mulan, Toy Story 2, My Little Pony)
Production Designer: Kyle McQueen (The Willoughbys, Sausage Party)
Editor: Pam Ziegenhagen-Shefland (Abominable, Despicable Me)
Composer: Toby Chu (Bao, Surf’s Up 2)
Songwriters: Tony Marlow (SIX: The Musical) and Lucy Moss (SIX: The Musical)
Animation and Imagery By: ReelFX
Cast: Monkey King (Jimmy O. Yang), Lin (Jolie Hoang-Rappaport), Stick (Nan Li),
Dragon King (Bowen Yang), Benbo (Jo Koy), Babbo (Ron Yuan), Jade Emperor (Hoon Lee),Buddha (BD Wong), Demon of Havoc (Andrew Kishino), Red Girl (Sophie Wu),
King Yama (Andrew Kishino), Wangmu (Jodi Long), Elder Monkey (James Sie), Mayor (Andrew Pang), Mayor’s Wife (Stephanie Hsu), Mayor’s Son (Kuno Inghram)

(Photo/video credit: Netflix)

Cameron Bailey, CEO, TIFF, is delighted to announce the first honourees of this year’s Tribute Awards: Academy Award®–winning directors and legends Pedro Almodóvar and Spike Lee. One of the world’s foremost filmmakers and provocative storytellers, Almodóvar will receive the Jeff Skoll Award in Impact Media presented by Participant, and Lee, a cultural icon who has influenced generations of filmmakers, will receive the TIFF Ebert Director Award. The 2023 Tribute Awards presented by Bulgari will take place on Sunday, September 10, 2023 during the 48th edition of the Toronto International Film Festival at Fairmont Royal York Hotel. Now in its fifth year, the TIFF Tribute Awards have served as an awards-season bellwether, with past honourees Michelle Yeoh, Brendan Fraser, Jessica Chastain, Roger Deakins, Sir Anthony Hopkins, Joaquin Phoenix, Taika Waititi, and Chloé Zhao going on to win awards on the international stage.

“It’s a true thrill to acknowledge Pedro Almodóvar as the distinguished recipient of the Jeff Skoll Impact Media Award for 2023,” stated Bailey. “Pedro has been coming to TIFF for years, and each time is better than the time before. His artistic vision, bold storytelling, and unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of cinema have had a profound impact. He challenges societal norms, champions diversity, and illuminates the human experience with sensitivity and grace. We applaud his contributions to cinema and celebrate his ability to inspire and provoke audiences worldwide.”

The Jeff Skoll Award in Impact Media presented by Participant recognizes leadership in creating a union between social impact and cinema. Past recipients honoured in the prestigious category include Buffy Sainte-Marie in 2022, Alanis Obomsawin in 2021, and Mira Nair in 2020.

“The TIFF Ebert Director Award recognizes filmmakers who have exemplified greatness in their career,” continued Bailey. “A foremost storyteller of our era, Spike’s body of work from She’s Gotta Have It, to Do the Right Thing, to Mo’ Better Blues, to his most recent film at TIFF 2020, American Utopia, Spike has inspired audiences and made a lasting impact on the art of filmmaking.”

Named after legendary film critic Roger Ebert, the Award has gone to celebrated visionaries such as Martin Scorsese, Claire Denis, Ava DuVernay, Wim Wenders, and the late Agnès Varda. Past recipients who received the Award since the TIFF Tribute Awards were introduced include Sam Mendes (2022), Denis Villeneuve (2021), Chloé Zhao (2020), and Taika Waititi (2019).

Bulgari returns as a major sponsor and official jewellery partner of this year’s Toronto International Film Festival, also presenting the Share Her Journey Groundbreaker Award at the 2023 Tribute Awards. The partnership between TIFF and Bulgari highlights a shared commitment to arts and culture.

The Awards night serves as TIFF’s largest annual fundraiser, having raised $1.3 million in 2022. 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.

Pedro Almodóvar Biography
Pedro Almodóvar was born in Calzada de Calatrava, Spain and left for Madrid at 17 to study cinema and direct film, but it became impossible when the National School of Cinema (in Madrid) was closed by the Franco government. As a result, Almdóvar was [mostly] self-taught, making a number of short films from 1974–1978. His first feature film, Pepi, Luci, Bom and Other Girls on the Heap, debuted in 1980. He launched his production company El Deseo with his brother Agustín in 1986, and has since produced, written, and directed his own and other directors’ films. Some of his films have been adapted into plays (All About My Mother) and even into musicals (Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown). The Oscar-winning filmmaker has received numerous accolades over his five-decade career, including one of Spain’s top prizes for outstanding achievement, the Prince of Asturias Award (2006), and honourary degrees from Harvard University (2009) and Oxford University (2016).

Spike Lee Biography
Spike Lee is a graduate of Morehouse College, Class of 1979, with a B.A. in Mass Communications. He also is a Graduate of the Numero Uno, NYU Graduate Film School, and a classmate of Ernest Dickerson and Ang Lee 1982. He is also a tenured Film Professor and Artistic Director at NYU Graduate Film School.