The Toronto International Film Festival, presented by Rogers, wraps up its section-specific announcements with another electric and eldritch edition of its Midnight Madness programme. Spanning the full spectrum of midnight movie modes, from classic horror and wicked action to absurdist alt-comedy and the return of gonzo documentaries to the section courtesy of Canada’s Matthew Rankin (The Twentieth Century, TIFF ’19; Universal Language, TIFF ’24), the 2026 Midnight Madness lineup includes six World Premieres across 10 countries of production. Further assembled within the slate are an awesome array of masked killers, medieval ghosts, drug-addled mobsters, denim-desiring yakuza, amnesiac detectives, martial artist vampires, interstellar infantrymen, competing Canadian politicians, Faustian bargains, existential ennui, and even an infamous talking pineapple.

An audience favourite with an “obsessed” following, Midnight Madness delivers 10 late-night screenings at the (allegedly) haunted Royal Alexandra Theatre, each starting at 11:59 pm. Hosted by section curator Peter Kuplowsky, Midnight Madness invites the Festival’s most devoted and raucous audience to close out each night by diving into the best of the bizarre in contemporary genre and underground cinema, from emerging and established provocateurs.

And the Midnight Madness mayhem expands this year, with a special screening of Na Hong-jin’s sci-fi action thriller Hope starring Hwang Jung-min, Zo In-sung, and Jung Hoyeon on Wednesday, September 9, the eve before Festival; and a “return to where it all started” screening of Focus Features and writer-director Curry Barker’s breakout success Obsession on Friday, September 11. As previously announced, TIFF: The Market will host an onstage moderated Dialogues conversation with director Barker and star Inde Navarrette as part of the seven-day Summit at the John Bassett Theatre; accessible by pass holders and public ticket holders.

2026 Midnight Madness programme (in alphabetical order):

Anchors Aweigh | Matt Barats | USA

International Premiere

Arrested Memory | SABU | Taiwan, Japan

North American Premiere

HALF | Samjad | India

World Premiere

Kick On | Nick Kozakis | Australia

World Premiere

Ladies and Gentlemen, Brian Mulroney | Matthew Rankin | Canada

World Premiere

River | Joshua Giuliano | USA

World Premiere

Midnight Madness Opening Night Film

Rogue Trooper | Duncan Jones | United Kingdom

North American Premiere

Midnight Madness Closing Night Film

The Face of Horror | Anna Biller | United Kingdom

World Premiere

The Spiral | Paolo Strippoli | Italy, France, Belgium

International Premiere

Vintage Violence | Eugene Kotlyarenko | USA, Japan

World Premiere

The 51st edition of the Toronto International Film Festival, presented by Rogers, runs September 10–20, 2026. Today concludes this week’s programming announcements and the full schedule will be live on tiff.net on Tuesday, August 11.

Social:

YouTube: TIFF

X: @TIFF_NET and @TIFF_TheMarket

Instagram, TikTok, Letterboxd, Pinterest, Facebook, LinkedIn

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, plus learning and entertainment facilities; the Donald Shebib TIFF Film Circuit, an innovative national distribution programme; 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 Telefilm Canada, the Government of Ontario, and the City of Toronto.

Inspired by the life of a beloved American icon, MADDEN chronicles John Madden’s incredible journey alongside best friend and true original Al Davis – from a Super Bowl-winning partnership with the Raiders, to becoming football’s most recognizable voice, to building the worldwide Madden NFL video game. MADDEN is the celebration of a brilliant mind whose once in a century spirit and personality, partnership with his daring wife Virginia, lifelong friendships, and infectious love of people and football transcended the world of sports.

Directed by Academy Award nominated David O. Russell, starring Academy Award winner Nicolas Cage as John Madden, Academy Award winner Christian Bale as Al Davis, with Kathryn Hahn, Sienna Miller, John Mulaney, and Shane Gillis.

Directed by David O. Russell

Written by David O. Russell and Cambron Clark

Starring Nicolas Cage, Christian Bale, Kathryn Hahn, Sienna Miller, John Mulaney, with Shane Gillis

Produced by Todd Black, p.g.a., Jason Blumenthal, p.g.a., Steve Tisch, Jonathan Shukat, David O. Russell, Matthew Budman, p.g.a., Colin Wilson

Executive Produced by David Bloomfield, Constance Schwartz-Morini, Michael Strahan

Amazon MGM Studios presents, an Escape Artists, ShowKat, Dreamcrew Entertainment,

Corazon Camera production, in association with Skydance Sports and NFL Films

Runtime 1 hour & 50 minutes

Press Kit:

Amazon MGM Studios Press Site

About Prime Video

Prime Video is a first-stop entertainment destination offering customers a vast selection of premium movies, series and live sports in one app across thousands of devices. Customers can discover Prime Originals from Amazon MGM Studios alongside an unmatched library of licensed movies and series; Prime-exclusive live sports including NHL, NBA, WNBA, PWHL; and playback features like X-Ray that enhance the viewing experience.

All customers, with or without Prime, can also access 100+ add-on streaming subscriptions (Apple TV+, BritBox, Crave, Citytv+, Hayu, Paramount+, RDS, Sportsnet, STACKTV, STARZ, Super Channel, TSN, TVA Sports, and more), and the largest selection of titles available to rent or buy.

Prime Video is one of many benefits included with a Prime membership, which bundles savings, convenience, and entertainment. Prime members can share benefits, including Prime Video, through Amazon Family.

Today we get a new Featurette from HEART OF THE BEAST!

AND CLICK THE BELOW LINK TO PUT YOUR FOUR-LEGGED PAL INTO THE HEART OF THE BEAST POSTER!

heartofthebeastgenerator.com

Paramount Pictures Presents

In Association with Domain Entertainment and Gulfstream Pictures

A Wild Chickens / Temple Hill / Kino World Production

A Film by David Ayer

Brad Pitt

“HEART OF THE BEAST”

SYNOPSIS

After a harrowing plane crash, Special Forces officer James Belmont (Brad Pitt) and his combat dog, Odin, find themselves stranded deep in the Alaskan wilderness. Together, they are forced into a brutal fight for survival against the elements. From acclaimed filmmaker David Ayer, Heart of the Beast is an intense adventure thriller that explores the unbreakable bond between a man and his best friend as they face their greatest battle yet.

EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS

Damien Chazelle, Scott Lumpkin, Cameron Alexander, Chris Long, Pete Chiappetta, Anthony Tittanegro, Andrew Lary, Sophie Cassidy, Zack Conroy

PRODUCED BY

Olivia Hamilton, p.g.a., Marty Bowen, David Ayer, p.g.a., Brad Pitt, p.g.a.

WRITTEN BY

Cameron Alexander

DIRECTED BY

David Ayer

CAST

Brad Pitt, J.K. Simmons, Anna Lambe

CREDITS ARE NOT FINAL AND SUBJECT TO CHANGE

THIS FILM HAS NOT BEEN RATED YET

Following the breakout success of Black Coffee’s landmark Toronto showcase, Full Circle Presents, Future, and Puzzle Entertainment are going bigger, proudly announcing the second installment of their premium electronic music showcase series: Taraka Presents GORDO & Francis Mercier, taking place on Sunday, September 6, 2026, from 2:00 PM to 11:00 PM EST.

Headlining the event is GORDO, Billboard’s No. 1 Hot 100 Producer, the creative force behind six tracks on Drake’s Honestly, Nevermind, and one of electronic music’s most influential artists. Joining him is internationally celebrated DJ and producer Francis Mercier, whose distinctive Afro House sound has earned him a rapidly growing global following.

Taraka is GORDO’s internationally recognized event concept, known for bringing together world-class artists, immersive production, and carefully curated lineups. For Toronto, the experience has been reimagined through a purpose-built outdoor venue, elevated hospitality, and large-scale production that reflects the shared vision of Taraka and the producers behind Black Coffee. This is not a club night. This is not a festival. This is a reimagined live music experience.

Pre-Sale Registration Opens: August 6, 2026

Private Pre-Sale (Registered Guests): August 12, 2026 – 12:30 PM

General Public On Sale: August 13, 2026 – 12:30 PM

Additional supporting artists will be announced shortly.

General Admission tickets start at $60 CAD, with VIP Experiences beginning at $110 CAD.

EVENT DETAILS

Taraka Presents GORDO & Francis Mercier

Date: Sunday, September 6, 2026

Time: 2:00 PM – 11:00 PM EST

Presented by: Full Circle Presents, Future and Puzzle Entertainment

Culinary Experience by: The Food Dudes

Pre-Sale Registration: https://laylo.com/puzzlespresents/mAm2Uy

Today, as My Life with the Walter Boys Season 3 premieres globally on Netflix, fans can step into the world of Silver Falls beyond the screen — and it’s closer than you think.

Filmed across southern Alberta, key filming locations in High River, Millarville, Kananaskis and Calgary are now available to explore on the Netflix in Your Neighbourhood and Netflix chez vous websites, inviting fans to discover the real places behind the hit coming-of-age drama.

In this season of My Life with the Walter Boys, fans may recognize different Calgary landmarks like Foothills Athletic Park, which appears as the backdrop for multiple high school track meets. They can also spot the University of Calgary, Faculty of Nursing, which serves as the hospital where the Walter family gathers for important news in the season premiere.

Foothills Athletic Park, Calgary, featured in My Life with the Walter Boys Season 3

Visit the Netflix in Your Neighbourhood and Netflix chez vous interactive map for all of the latest My Life with the Walter Boys Season 3 filming locations, including:

High River’s 4th Avenue SW, Knee Deep Bar & Grill, Tattoos by Petrus Ink, Highwood Centre, Museum of the Highwood and George Lane Memorial Park

Millarville’s Black Diamond Land & Cattle Co.

Kananaskis’ Sheep River Falls

From small-town main streets to scenic rural landscapes, Netflix in Your Neighbourhood and Netflix chez vous make it easy to discover the places behind some of Netflix’s most memorable moments.

Don’t forget to check out My Life with the Walter Boys Season 3, now streaming globally on Netflix.

On August 18, for one night only, join chef Ryotaro Matsuzaki at Aburi Sushi, located in Waterworks Food Hall (50 Brant Street), for a refined 9-course tasting dinner that celebrates the delicacy of seasonal produce with Sukiyaki-style cuisine. With only two intimate seatings at 6 PM and 8 PM, for $125 per person, this event offers a rare opportunity to experience a meticulously crafted menu featuring show-stopping bites like A5 Miyazaki Wagyu, Aburi Toro with Shaved Truffle Nigiri, Foie Gras Oshi Temaki, and more. Book your seat HERE or through the restaurant’s website.

Shabu Shabu spread
Sukiyaki represents a comforting style of Japanese dining featuring hot pot with thinly sliced meat and seasonal vegetables gently simmered in a rich, sweet-savoury soy broth, allowing every ingredient to absorb its warmth and depth. Sushi, on the other hand, offers a refined expression of Japanese craftsmanship, balancing seasoned rice with fresh seafood, thoughtful textures, and precise technique. For one night only, Aburi Sushi welcomes diners to experience the fusion of these two culinary traditions. See the full menu below.

A5 Wagyu Sukiyaki & Sushi Menu
Hokkaido Monaka
Japanese Uni and Hokkaido Scallop

Aburi Sashimi
Atlantic Salmon and Yellowtail

A5 Wagyu & Seasonal Vegetables Sukiyaki
wagyu strip loin, seasonal vegetables
extra wagyu:
+$30 for A5 Miyazaki wagyu striploin

Salmon Oshi Temaki
Aburi Salmon Toro Nigiri Temaki
Aburi Toro with Shaved Truffle Nigiri
Foie Gras Oshi Temaki
Toro Taku Temaki
Ginger Panna Cotta

EVENT DETAILS
Date: August 18th
Location: Aburi Sushi at Waterworks Food Hall– 499 Richmond St W, Toronto, ON
Seatings: 6 PM & 8 PM
Price: $125 per person (plus tax & gratuity)
How to Reserve: Book your seat HERE or through the restaurant’s website

About Aburi Sushi:
Aburi Sushi is a unique concept from the Aburi Restaurants Canada group (MICHELIN-starred Aburi Hana, Miku, and Minami) — pioneers of flame-seared (aburi) sushi in Canada since 2008. Located inside the dynamic Waterworks Food Hall, enjoy a premium omakase-style bar in a more relaxed setting. Aburi Sushi focuses on temaki (hand rolls) and aburi-style preparations that elevate the natural flavours of premium seafood with a delicate kiss of flame using ​​Japanese binchotan charcoal, wrapped in the finest Ariake seaweed for unmatched texture and taste.

Today we get a new Trailer for VVS Films’ RUNNER, starring Alan Ritchson and Owen Wilson, coming to theatres September 11, 2026

A former soldier is thrown into a race against time as a medical delivery makes him the target of a ruthless cartel.

Beginning August 6, 2026, Curryish Tavern is turning up the heat with the launch of its “Hot as Fack” Curry Challenge, an adults-only test for Toronto’s most daring spice lovers.

The challenge is simple, but certainly not easy: participants have 10 minutes or less to finish an intensely spicy curry made with a custom blend of Bhut Jolokia, better known as Ghost Pepper, and Carolina Reaper—without taking a single sip of any beverage.

Those who conquer the curry within the allotted time will receive:

The $24 challenge dish complimentary
A $100 Curryish Tavern gift card

A cooling mango lassi or glass of milk

An official “Hot as Fack” Curry Challenge certificate

Available in chicken or vegetarian, the challenge will run throughout August for $24.

Participants must be 18 or older, sign a liability waiver and meet the health requirements outlined by the restaurant. Due to the extreme spice level, the challenge is not suitable for anyone with a medical condition that could be aggravated by consuming very spicy food.

Reservations here.

Elevation Pictures x Mr. Will are thrilled to give Readers a chance to win pairs of passes to an Advance Screening of THE RIVALS OF AMZIAH KING. Screenings take place August 10, 2026 in Toronto and Calgary.

Synopsis:

Deep within the backwoods of rural Oklahoma, charismatic and musically gifted Amziah King herds a bluegrass-playing band of misfits while overseeing the premier honey-making operation in town. When Amziah’s estranged foster daughter unexpectedly returns, Amziah leaps at the possibility to renew connection and create a family business. But the honey game is ruthless, and Amziah’s rivals threaten to destroy everything he has built.

Starring Matthew McConaughey, Kurt Russell and introducing Angelina LookingGlass. THE RIVALS OF AMZIAH KING, a film by Andrew Patterson. Only in theatres August 14.

To enter for a chance to win, click “like” on this Post at MR. WILL ON FACEBOOK or IG. In the comments tell us which city and tag a friend you’re taking. Multiple entries allowed. You must be following in the event we need to reach you.

Rules and regulations here.

THE RIVALS OF AMZIAH KING is exclusively in theatres, August 14, 2026.

(Photo/video credit: Elevation Pictures)

MAISON 4:3 and the Association coopérative des productions audio-visuelles (ACPAV) are pleased to announce that THE FINAL ACT, written and directed by Sophie Deraspe (Shepherds, Antigone), will have its world premiere in the TIFF Docs section at the 51st Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF). A two-time winner of TIFF’s Best Canadian Feature Film award – for Antigone in 2019 and Shepherds in 2024 – the acclaimed Quebec filmmaker returns to Toronto with a deeply moving documentary about the end of life.

The Final Act gathers the testimony of people consciously preparing for death – their own, a loved one’s, or a patient’s. Through the goodbyes offered by Stéphane’s loved ones, André’s jokes about doing Sudoku at the end of life, and Céline’s embrace to ease her son’s grief, Deraspe enters her subjects’ most intimate moments and captures scenes of remarkable vitality. As the final breath approaches, it is love and life, in all their complexity, that come most powerfully to the fore.

A member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, Sophie Deraspe combines social engagement with bold aesthetics in her filmmaking. Her first feature, Missing Victor Pellerin, was released in 2006 to critical acclaim and screened widely around the world. In 2010, she established herself internationally with Vital Signs, which was nominated for a Tiger Award at Rotterdam. She followed with The Wolves (2015), winner of the FIPRESCI Prize in Torino, and the documentary The Amina Profile, selected for the official competition at Sundance that same year. Deraspe is a two-time recipient of TIFF’s Best Canadian Feature Film award, for Antigone in 2019 – also selected as Canada’s submission for the Academy Awards – and Shepherds in 2024. A Canada-France co-production, Shepherds was released on 347 screens across France before beginning its rollout in several countries.

THE FINAL ACT is produced by François Bonneau and Isabelle Couture for ACPAV, with the financial participation of SODEC and TELEFILM CANADA. The film is distributed in Canada by Maison 4:3 and will open in theatres in the winter of 2027.

About Maison 4:3

Founded in 2014, Maison 4:3 is a boutique film distribution company. It puts its expertise at the service of filmmakers and their films, developing release strategies and supporting each work through the various stages of its distribution. Maison 4:3 champions deeply human projects that are both distinctive and resonant.

About ACPAV

Conceived from the outset as a home for creative freedom, ACPAV has supported auteur cinema since the early 1970s, exploring the sociopolitical realities of its time across every genre. Encompassing both fiction and documentary, ACPAV’s productions have distinguished themselves through their political dimensions and their commitment to reflecting every facet of Quebec culture. ACPAV is proud of its past while remaining firmly focused on the future. Although much has changed in filmmaking over the past fifty years, the values that guide its production team remain essentially the same: a desire to speak honestly and sincerely about the here and now, and to do so in a way that reaches audiences. Together, the ACPAV team is committed to advancing its vision of cinema alongside Quebec, Canadian and international partners, nurturing new talent while ensuring continuity. This gives ACPAV a truly singular place in Quebec’s film landscape.