TIFF26: “ALPHA GANG” REVIEW

By David Baldwin

A group of aliens disguised in human bodies and clad in leather biker jackets and 1950s era apparel land on Earth and are prepped to invade, but they start having second thoughts when they discover emotions and the beauty of the human experience.

That is the general gist of ALPHA GANG, the latest from Writer-Director duo David and Nathan Zellner (whose last film was the absolutely batshit Sasquatch Sunset) and it is odd to say the least. The film uses the most abstract and absurdist level of humour to get its points about humanity and observations about nature across, and then layers a chaotic level of violent gun play on top of it. To wit, there is an entire scene of the titular gang trying to mow down a colony of ants by using the most bullets and grenades necessary. That’s the kind of film this is. And while the entire aesthetic of ALPHA GANG is stylish as hell, with the costumes, makeup and soundtrack being particularly notable, it does take awhile to get on the film’s wavelength. Even then, you may still find yourself unable to fully commit to the insane vision the Zellners have crafted. ALPHA GANG is certainly not going to be for everyone, but it is certainly a unique vision and is never boring.

The cast the Zellners have assembled here is almost as ludicrous as the film itself. Léa Seydoux, Dave Bautista, Lily-Rose Depp, Riley Keough,Kelvin Harrison Jr. and Doona Bae make up the main cast, each committing fully to the deranged level of theatrics asked of them and often in hilarious fashion. Oscar-winner Cate Blanchett even shows up in a bit part in the third act that is unhinged and must be seen to be believed. Yet for all of those committed performances, none can match the sheer reckless energy of Chris Pine, who makes a seismic impact on the film that starts from his first frame on-screen and never dissipates. You will not be able to take your eyes off him.

ALPHA GANG screens at TIFF ‘26:

Sun. Sept 13 at 9:30 PM at VISA Screening Room at the Princess of Wales Theatre

Mon. Sept 14 at 5:30 PM at Scotiabank Theatre

Thurs. Sept 17 at 2:00 PM at VISA Screening Room at the Princess of Wales Theatre

Sun. Sept 20 at 5:00 PM at Scotiabank Theatre

#TIFF: FIVE SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS ANNOUNCED FOR 2026 TORONTO INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

TIFF ‘26 is expanding with today’s announcement of five additional films in this year’s Special Presentations programme. These compelling new works from celebrated filmmakers Rachel Morrison, Benjamín Naishtat, Ben Shirinian, Bassam Tariq, plus David and Nathan Zellner provide a glimpse into this year’s Official Selection. The 51st edition of TIFF, presented by Rogers, will take place September 10–20, 2026.

“Each year, we strive to curate a selection of films that feels most relevant to the moment with the power to spark a rich dialogue with our public audience, and these Special Presentations titles are true reflections of that,” said Anita Lee, Chief Programming Officer, TIFF. “From debut directors to the most anticipated sophomore films of the year to vanguard voices, this group of films showcase the authenticity, the unexpected, and the ambition of cinema now. They are sure to be among the Festival’s most talked-about titles, captivating audiences and generating buzz long after the credits roll. We’re delighted to share these original works with TIFF audiences in September.”

Film details (in alphabetical order):

Alpha Gang | David Zellner, Nathan Zellner | USA

International Premiere

Glaxo | Benjamín Naishtat | Argentina, Brazil
World Premiere

Love of Your Life | Rachel Morrison | USA

World Premiere

The Housewife | Ben Shirinian | USA

World Premiere

Your Mother Your Mother Your Mother | Bassam Tariq | USA

World Premiere

Upcoming announcements:

TIFF Takeover 1: July 20–23

Mon., Jul. 20: Gala & Special Presentations

Tue., Jul. 21: Platform

Wed., Jul. 22: Discovery

Thu., Jul. 23: Primetime

TIFF Takeover 2: August 4–6

Tue., Aug. 4: Centrepiece, Wavelengths & Classics

Wed., Aug. 5: TIFF Docs & Shortcuts

Thu., Aug. 6: Midnight Madness