#TIFF21: “DEAR EVAN HANSEN” REVIEW

By Mr. Will Wong

While many Broadway plays have been given the Big Screen treatment, not all have succeeded. Fortunately, Stephen Chboksy‘s DEAR EVAN HANSEN is the real deal!

The deeply-heartfelt coming-of-age story centers on Evan (Ben Platt) who finds himself caught in a spiraling lie after a classmate’s family confuses him aa their son’s secret best friend. The problem is they were never actually friends.

The Musical explores the aftermath of a tragic loss, how we construct the truths we want and at what cost this comes. And ultimately what it means to find your own truth.

Headlined by an outstanding reprised performance by role-originating Platt, the Film is a visceral journey. The odd thing is while many read the humour as Comedy, I could feel his Evan‘s deep anxiety and pain, which was truly palpable.

Supporting turns from Amy Adams, Julianne Moore and Kaitlyn Dever are deeply-affecting. The glue that binds it all is that mesmerizing Soundtrack by Benj Pasek & Justin Paul.

Chbosky ambitiously covers a lot of ground but nails it! Fans are going to love this wonderful translation.

DEAR EVAN HANSEN screens at TIFF ’21:

Thu, Sep 09
IN-PERSON
Visa Screening Room at the Princess of Wales Theatre
Premium
5:30pm

Thu, Sep 09
IN-PERSON
Roy Thomson Hall
Premium
7:00pm

Thu, Sep 09
RBC Lakeside Drive-In at Ontario Place
8:30pm

Thu, Sep 09
DIGITAL PREMIERE SCREENING
digital TIFF Bell Lightbox
Premium
Availability: Canada
9:00pm

#TIFF21: “VIOLET” REVIEW

Review by Amanda Gilmore

When Violet (Olivia Munn) was a child, she was free and happy. As she grew up, a negative “guiding voice” (Justin Theroux) began changing the way she lived. She now works at a film production company where she deals with a sexist, undermining boss. And spends her days biting her tongue trying to please others, even when that means causing herself pain. But things begin to change when Violet decides to do the opposite of what her “guiding voice” says.

Violet’s negative voice feels like it’s the manifestation of overpowering depression and crippling anxiety. It diminishes her self-esteem so that she becomes a doormat for others, changing to be what they want. And it tells her to submit, convincing her that’s the only way to get through life. Theroux provides powerful voiceover work that creates a convincing guiding voice.

Actress-Writer-Director Justine Bateman – yes, the same one from Family Ties – further visualizes Violet’s inner turmoil through transitions. Fade-outs are traditionally used by fading to black. However, Bateman fades to red. These fades happen when Violet finds herself overwhelmed by the negative voice and those around her. The immense pressure builds and transitions into anger that she buries within her, which is symbolized through the red. 

Although we are hearing the negative voice, we rarely hear Violet’s thoughts. Bateman incorporates Violet’s thoughts through quotes across the frame. Majority of the time these writings aide in exposing things we wouldn’t otherwise know. However, there are moments when these writings feel overused.

This is primarily caused because of Munn’s strong performance. Her talent in this role makes the added visual quotes seem redundant. We don’t need to read what is happening behind Violet’s eyes, because Munn shows us. She shines brightest in one particular scene when Violet confronts her sexist boss.

VIOLET screens at TIFF ’21:

Thu, Sep 09 TIFF Bell Lightbox 2:00 PM

Thu, Sep 09 Visa Skyline Drive-In at Ontario Place 8:30 PM

Fri, Sep 10IN-PERSONOntario Place West Island Open Air Cinema 9:00 PM

Tue, Sep 14 digital TIFF Bell Lightbox 9:00 PM

#GIVEAWAY: ENTER FOR A CHANCE TO WIN ADVANCE SCREENING PASSES TO SEE “DEAR EVAN HANSEN”

We are thrilled to give Readers a chance to win Advance Passes to see DEAR EVAN HANSEN! The Film is the TIFF ’21 Opening Night Gala! Screenings take place on September 22, 2021 in the following cities:

Toronto: Cineplex Cinemas Varsity, 7:00 pm
Montreal: Scotiabank Theatre, 7:00 pm

Synopsis:

The breathtaking, generation-defining Broadway phenomenon becomes a soaring cinematic event as Tony, Grammy and Emmy Award winner Ben Platt reprises his role as an anxious, isolated high schooler aching for understanding and belonging amid the chaos and cruelty of the social-media age.

Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Stephen Chbosky (The Perks of Being A Wallflower, Wonder), the film is written for the screen by the show’s Tony winner Steven Levenson with music and lyrics by the show’s Oscar®, Grammy and Tony-winning songwriting team of Benj Pasek & Justin Paul (La La Land, The Greatest Showman).

See the Trailer:

To enter for a chance to win, click “like” on this Post at MR. WILL ON FACEBOOK. Re-Tweet this Contest Tweet below for an extra chance. You must be following.

Enter for your chance to #win Advance Passes to see #TIFF21 selection #DearEvanHansen in Toronto and Montreal!https://t.co/Vl03VEkCOY pic.twitter.com/Ouj2jYzg2S

— MR. WILL WONG 📸 (@mrwillw) September 9, 2021

Rules and regulations here.

Univeraal Pictures Canada release DEAR EVAN HANSEN September 24, 2021.

(Photo/video credit: Universal Pictures Canada)

#FIRSTLOOK: NEW TRAILER FOR “THE MATRIX RESURRECTIONS”

We know many of you have waited so long for this. The new Trailer for THE MATRIX: RESURRECTIONS, in theatres for the Holidays!

Synopsis:

From visionary filmmaker Lana Wachowski comes “The Matrix Resurrections,” the long-awaited fourth film in the groundbreaking franchise that redefined a genre. The new film reunites original stars Keanu Reeves and Carrie-Anne Moss in the iconic roles they made famous, Neo and Trinity.   

Warner Bros. Canada release THE MATRIX: RESURRECTIONS on December 22, 2201.

(Photo/video credit: Warner Bros. Canada)

#TIFF21: DAY ONE ARRIVALS – JOSHUA JACKSON, JOSH O’CONNOR, JUSTINE BATEMAN, BEN PLATT

We don’t believe #TIFF21 finally is here! While things are indeed a bit different this year, any bit of in-person events is dearly welcomed! While TIFF ’21 starts today, we did spot a few arrivals already gearing-up for their big premieres on TIFF Day One.

So thrilled to chat with The Toronto Sun‘s Jane Stevenson about starspotting etiquette this TIFF with our current climate. Click here more the article.

Also in case you missed our appearance on CP24 previewing what the Festival might look like for stargazers, watch here.

We can confirm Ben Platt, star of Opening Night Gala, DEAR EVAN HANSEN already is in the City, set to walk alongside Director Stephen Chbosky on the Red Carpet at Roy Thomson Hall tomorrow.

It is however, Josh O’Connor whom we are most excited about at the Festival and how amazing is it he was our first star sighting? The British star of Netflix’s THE CROWN and acclaimed Drama GOD’S OWN COUNTRY recently moved to New York and is a star on the rise, just having won a Golden Globe Award this past Awards Season for his work as Prince Charles in The Crown. Donning a pizza shirt, he was amazingly-kind to stop for autographs and selfies with fans, despite a bit of a hold-up after landing due to updated COVID-19 protocols. He premieres WWI Romance MOTHERING SUNDAY at Princess of Wales Theatre tonight. The Film also stars Odessa Young and an Oscar-winning duo in Olivia Colman and Colin Firth.

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We got the scoop that Vancouver’s own Joshua Jackson is back at TIFF once again, but he’s here to promote his new Series DR. DEATH, premiering on Showcase in Canada on September 12, 2021. Based on the true story of Dr. Christopher Duntsch‘s who left several patients maimed or dead. Jackson positively is sinister in the titular role and we really want to see how the rest of the Series delves into Duntsch‘s psyche to why he destroyed so many lives. Jackson arrived low-key and was so kind to stop for a Snap. He should be here through next week celebrating the new Series.

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It was super-cool seeing Justine Bateman, who we idolized on Family Ties as Mallory Keaton. She makes her Feature directorial debut in VIOLET, starring Olivia Munn (who just announced she’s pregnant with Funnyman John Mulaney), premiering at TIFF Bell Lightbox this afternoon. She seemed preoccupied and wanted privacy, but we’ll be at the Premiere and hope to get a snap there!

This is only the beginning, but unlike other years, we are expecting a busy few days ahead, with the star sightings to tail off likely around Monday with fewer talent making their way to the City this TIFF.

More to come! Check back daily! Bookmark this link for updates as we bring you star sightings and the Reviews from the hottest Films to come out of the Festival!

(Photo credit: Mr. Will Wong)

#FIRSTLOOK: NEW TRAILER FOR “C’MON C’MON”

Academy Award winner Joaquin Phoenix stars in C’MON C’MON. See the new Trailer!

Synopsis:

Johnny (Joaquin Phoenix) and his young nephew (Woody Norman) forge a tenuous but transformational relationship when they are unexpectedly thrown together in this delicate and deeply moving story about the connections between adults and children, the past and the future, from writer-director Mike Mills.

VVS Films release C’MON C’MON in theatres November 2021.

(Photo/video credit: VVS Films)

#FIRSTLOOK: NEW TRAILER FOR “THE MANY SAINTS OF NEWARK”

Fans of The Sopranos will be thrilled at this first look for the brand-new Trailer for THE MANY SAINTS OF NEWARK, coming this Fall to theatres.

Synopsis:

Young Anthony Soprano is growing up in one of the most tumultuous eras in Newark’s history, becoming a man just as rival gangsters begin to rise up and challenge the all-powerful DiMeo crime family’s hold over the increasingly race-torn city. Caught up in the changing times is the uncle he idolizes, Dickie Moltisanti, who struggles to manage both his professional and personal responsibilities—and whose influence over his impressionable nephew will help make the teenager into the all-powerful mob boss we’ll later come to know: Tony Soprano. 

Cast: Alessandro Nivola as Richard “Dickie” Moltisanti, and Michael Gandolfini stepping into his father’s iconic role of Tony Soprano, they are bolstered by a long list of powerhouse actors rounding out the film’s global cast: Leslie Odom Jr., Jon Bernthal, Corey Stoll, Billy Magnussen, John Magaro, Italian discovery Michela De Rossi, Ray Liotta, and Vera Farmiga.

THE MANY SAINTS OF NEWARK arrives in theatres October 1, 2021 via Warner Bros. Canada.

(Photo/video credit: Warner Bros. Canada)

#TIFF21: MR. WILL’S OFFICIAL BRAND PARTNERS OF THE 2021 TORONTO INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

We are thrilled to announce our brand partners for the 2021 Toronto International Film Festival! With TIFF ’21 returning a bit more to a semblance of what we remember this year, we are excited to deliver you some amazing content! Whether it be snaps of and with the stars, bringing you the buzz on the who’s in town, our Reviews and also what Films are getting that Awards Season word of mouth, MRWILLWONG.COM and its Social Media channels are your go-to this TIFF!

We couldn’t do it without the support of our Brand Partners, returning and new!

Acura Canada (@AcuraCanada)

Mobility during the Film Festival is super-important and we’re thrilled our ride of choice for TIFF ’21 is the 2021 Acura TLX. Crafted for performance, we’ll let its sleek style and action speak for itself. One of the world’s best sport cars has an incredible legacy of over 30+ years!

Starbucks Canada (@StarbucksCanada)

It’s PSL Season once again and for us TIFF has always been synonymous with a warm Pumpkin Spice Latte, while watching a movie during the Festival early in the morning! You cannot miss out on their Fall menu options including the Pumpkin Scone, Pumpkin & Cream Cheese Muffin, and the phenomenal Apple Crumble Macchiato.

H&M Canada (@HMCanada)

H&M’s Fall 2021 Collection is all about comfort and style, with several officially licensed throwbacks. We’re thrilled to be wearing a few pieces from their Collection for the Festival again this year!

Chatime Canada (@ChatimeCanada)

Nobody does tea like Chatime Canada and that’s the truth. So thrilled to see their brand flourish across Canada and we have been hooked for many years! You absolutely must try some of their seasonal beverages like Mango Tango, Guava Lava, Grape Escape and their brand new Golden Aged Milk Tea, rich and complex! It’s Midautumn Festival soon and select locations are carrying Bake Code’s amazing and decadent Moon Cakes.

Be following us on all our Social Media channels. We’ve got plenty of Drink Vouchers to give away throughout the Festival!

Lone Star Texas Grill (@lonestartexasgrill) & Frankie’s Nashville Hot Chicken (@frankieshotchicken)

• We love our Tex-Mex and Lone Star Texas Grill and Frankie’s Nashville Hot Chicken are the gold standard! With locations around the GTA are the perfect way to fire-up your Festival!

The Beauty of Eczema (@thebeautyeczema.ca)

• Unwind after a long day of binge-watching with The Beauty of Eczema’s Bathing Oil and Bath Salts for an at-home spa experience!

Antipodes (@antipodesskincare)

• All the festival glam can dry out your skin—Antipodes’ Manuka Honey Skin-Brightening Beehive Box will keep your skin bright and hydrated!

boscia (@boscia)

• Nourish every last inch of your skin with boscia‘s new Skin Nutrition Body Collection, formulated with their good-for-you ingredients!

Nature’s Sunshine (@naturessunshinecanada)

• Keep your hair, skin and nails beautiful like the stars with Nature’s Sunshine new Hair, Skin & Nails capsules! And don’t forget to apply the ultimate protection and restoring benefits to your skin with their BioGuard Hand and Body Cream.

JetPeel (@JetPeelCanada)

The secret’s out! It’s no coincidence the likes of Jennifer Aniston and Courtney Cox Arquette keep their faces looking fresh and we’re thrilled to partner with JetPeel Canada to keep our glow nice and bright for TIFF ’21!

CP24 (@CP24)

We’re thrilled for an 11th year to be featured as a guest on CP24 during TIFF. Be sure to tune-in throughout the Festival. You never know when we’ll surface!

Happy Natural Products (@happy.naturalproducts)

We swear by Happy Natural Products‘ 80% Alcohol Sanitizer. It’s our favourite and we foresee we’ll be using it forever, even after we make it through the Pandemic! In addition to this, they make fantastic face masks of the highest grade and also Gua Sha, Facial Rollers, Toothbrushes and more. Their products can be found at the likes of Whole Foods, Well.ca and more.

We know you’ve been waiting for it. We’re thrilled to give one Reader in the Greater Toronto Area a chance to win our TIFF ’21 Survival Prize Pack, loaded with products we know you can’t do without this Festival!

Our Prize Pack, a value of over $600 CAN, includes:

1 $50 Starbucks Canada Gift Card
1 $50 Chatime gift card + 1x T-shirt +1x Tumbler + 1x Stainless Steel Straw set
1 $50 Gift Card at Lone Star Texas Grill
1 $50 Gift Card at Frankie’s Nashville Hot Chicken
1 Happy Gift Set including 1 Rose Quartz Roller + Gua Sha set, 1 Happy Face Mask, 1 bottle 250ml Happy Sanitizer and a Happy 3-Toothbrush set
1 The Beauty of Eczema’s Bathing Oil and Bath Salts At-Home Spa Set
1 Antipodes Manuka Honey Skin-Brightening Beehive Box
1 boscia Skin Nutrition Body Collection
1 bottle of Nature’s Sunshine new Hair, Skin & Nails capsules and BioGuard Hand and Body Cream
1 H&M Canada VIP Card
1 Official MR. WILL WONG Baseball Cap

To enter for a chance to win, click “like” on this Post at MR. WILL ON FACEBOOK, tag a friend, and tell us in the comments there, which Film you’re most excited about at TIFF ’21. Note: entrants should be from the Greater Toronto Area. We will deliver you the prize in-person. *hint: here’s some of our #TIFF21 coverage so far*.

You must be following.

You might want to bookmark this link as it will be updated often during the Festival!

Not on Facebook? All good, you can enter to win also on Instagram. Details below.

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… and Twitter also, details below as well!

We proudly present our official #TIFF21 partners and your chance to #win our #TIFF Survival Pack!

How: https://t.co/Pz32PcKHUF pic.twitter.com/NCG1gNnOin

— MR. WILL WONG 📸 (@mrwillw) September 7, 2021

Team Mr. Will are going to be out and about, and even at home enjoying #TIFF21 also. Don’t forget to follow them also:

David Baldwin
Amanda Gilmore
George Kozera
Justin Waldman___________________________________

Some of their top TIFF ’21 picks which you should have on your radar:

GEORGE KOZERA

THE WORST PERSON IN THE WORLD
MOTHERING SUNDAY
THE EYES OF TAMMY FAYE
DIONNE WARWICK: DON’T MAKE ME OVER
DUNE

JUSTIN WALDMAN

DUNE
LAST NIGHT IN SOHO
SPENCER
POWER OF THE DOG
TITANE

DAVE BALDWIN

TITANE
LAST NIGHT IN SOHO
FLEE
THE POWER OF THE DOG
DUNE

AMANDA GILMORE

SPENCER
THE EYES OF TAMMY FAYE
THE POWER OF THE DOG
DRIVE MY CAR
TITANE

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