#TIFF23: NEW TEASER TRAILER FOR “PAIN HUSTLERS”

Premiering at TIFF ’23, today we get a new Teaser Trailer for PAIN HUSTLERS starring Emily Blunt and Chris Evans!

SYNOPSIS:

Liza Drake (Emily Blunt) is a blue-collar single mom who has just lost her job and is at the end of her rope. A chance meeting with pharmaceutical sales rep Pete Brenner (Chris Evans) puts her on an upwards trajectory economically but dubious path ethically as she becomes entangled in a dangerous racketeering scheme. Dealing with her increasingly unhinged boss (Andy Garcia), the worsening medical condition of her daughter (Chloe Coleman), and a growing awareness of the devastation the company is causing forces Liza to examine her choices. Pain Hustlers is a sharp and revealing look at what some people do out of desperation and others do out of greed. The film is directed by BAFTA award winner David Yates, produced by Lawrence Grey, and also starring Catherine O’Hara, Jay Duplass and Brian d’Arcy James.

DIRECTOR: David Yates
SCREENPLAY BY: Wells Tower
BASED ON THE BOOK BY: Evan Hughes
PRODUCERS: Lawrence Grey, David Yates
EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS: Emily Blunt, Mark Moran, Yvonne Walcott-Yates, Lewis Taylor, Ben Everard
CAST: Emily Blunt, Chris Evans, Catherine O’Hara, Chloe Coleman, Jay Duplass, Brian d’Arcy James, Amit Shah, Aubrey Dollar, Willie Raysor and Andy Garcia

In select theatres October 20, 2023
On Netflix October 27, 2023

#TIFF23: “THE DELINQUENTS” TRAILER

Today we get a new Trailer for THE DELINQUENTS, getting an October 27, 2023 release via Mongrel Media and Mubi following its TIFF ’23 premiere.

Global film distributor, streaming service and production company MUBI and Canadian distributor Mongrel Media have announced that Rodrigo Moreno’s (El Custodio) critically-acclaimed The Delinquents will open theatrically in Canada on October 27 following the film’s North American premiere at TIFF.

Starring Daniel Elías, Esteban Bigliardi, Margarita Molfino and Germán De Silva, The Delinquents received its World Premiere in the Un Certain Regard section at the 2023Cannes Film Festival, where now on Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds an approval rating of 95%.

Beguiling and unpredictable, Cannes Un Certain Regard breakout THE DELINQUENTS reinvents the heist film as a free-flowing adventure like no other.

Buenos Aires bank employee Morán (Daniel Eliás) dreams up a scheme to liberate himself from corporate monotony: he’ll steal enough money to support a modest retirement, then confess and serve prison time while his co-worker holds on to the cash.

Soon under pressure by a company investigator, accomplice Román (Esteban Bigliardi) heads to a remote rural idyll to hide the funds. There, he encounters a mysterious woman who will transform his life forever.

The latest from Argentinian writer-director Rodrigo Moreno, THE DELINQUENTS melds the existential and the playful to explore the nature of freedom itself. Suffused with timeless beauty, this cinematic discovery is at turns surreal, relatable, funny, romantic, surprising, restorative – and above all – a delight.

THE DELINQUENTS WILL BE IN CINEMAS IN CANADA FROM OCTOBER 27, 2023.

#TIFF23: MR. WILL’S OFFICIAL 2023 TORONTO INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL PARTNERS

While we’re completely in support of Actors making their voices heard during this SAG-AFTRA strike, we can’t help but miss feeling some of the anticipation and electricity that we feel normally at this time of year. But does that mean we’re still going all out TIFF ’23? You bet!

The Team – Amanda Gilmore, David Baldwin, George Kozera, Justin Waldman and Nicholas Porteous are all thrilled for the Festival and if anything, the current state of things allow us to have an even deeper relationship with the films at the Festival, with less of the distractions we normally would have – especially in the earlier part of the Festival. Our Team share their Top Five picks at TIFF ’23 here with you in case you need ideas what to see.

We are so grateful to share our official partnerships for TIFF ’23:

CP24 – Southwestern Ontario’s choice for the latest breaking news, CP24 proudly boasts a viewrship of 3.7 million per week in the province. This marks my 14th year collaborating with them as a subject matter expert during the Festival. Can’t wait to see you on-air as we discuss what we’re most excited about, sightings and how we will be navigating TIFF ’23.

If you’re looking to catch us, we will be on CP24 in the 12 o’clock hour September 13th and on CP24 Breakfast on September 14th to start!

STARBUCKS CANADA – It’s PSL Season and the iconic autumnal beverage returns! This year saw the launch of two new seasonal beverages – Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte and Iced Apple Crisp Oat Shaken Espresso – plus the return of the fan-favourite Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew and Apple Crisp Oat Macchiato.  The PSL will always be synonymous with cold theatres in the morning, barely staying awake during my screenings and I wouldn’t have it any other way! Also a new Starbucks location has just lauched at King x John, right in time for TIFFmas! Perfect timing.

ACURA CANADA – We are so delighted to be driving the 2023 Acura TLX A SPEC, continuing a longstanding partnership we’ve had with Acura Canada over the years. This luxury Sports Sedan is sleek and geared for performance with a potent 355-HP and 354 lb.-ft of torque 3.0-litre Turbo V6 engine. The car is protected by state of the art AcuraWatch™. We’ll be getting off to screenings and red carpets in this amazing ride!

H&M CANADA – We adore H&M and are thankful for their longtime support. We can’t wait to show-off some amazing Fall/Winter 2023 pieces from their collection in our TV appearances and throughout the Festival.

CABANO’S CHEESEBURGERS – Hands down our favourite spot in the City to get a burger, there are multiple locations around town to cater to you whether Trinity Bellwoods works best or near Yorkville is more your speed. Not only are their Cheeseburgers and Chicken Burgers (all hormone-free) are next-level, wait till you try their wings and incredible array of sauces. They now have Ice Cream too!

ARTERRA WINES – With 140 years of experience as a leading producer and marketer of globally-recognized Canadian and international wines, this is our first year partnering with Arterra Wins and we’re thrilled about it! They distribute so many of our faves including Kim Crawford, Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi, Inniskillin, Jackson-Triggs and more!

HAPPY NATURAL PRODUCTS – Sold only at the finest wellness retailers like Well.ca and Whole Foods, we’re thrilled to support our friends once again this year. Whether it be premium facial rollers, gua sha, shower steamers, sanitizer, scalpal massagers and more, Happy Natural Products are re-inventing self-care and wellness with their outstanding products.

Of course we know you’re pumped and we want you to be excited about our biggest supporters too! We’ve put together a TIFF ’23 Survival Pack Giveaway:

-Meal for two at any Cabano’s Cheeseburgers location in Toronto
-$25 Starbucks Canada Gift Card (don’t worry there will be many up for grabs during TIFF if you don’t win the Survival Pack!)
-Two H&M Canada VIP Cards
-An assortment of Happy Natural Products
-Two bottles of Kim Crawford wine courtesy of Arterra Wines
-One official Mr. Will Wong baseball cap

I will hand-deliver to one lucky winner in the Greater Toronto Area area during TIFF!

To enter to win, simply click “like” on this Post on our Threads, Facebook or X account. In the comments, tag a friend! Winner must be from Greater Toronto Area. You must be following!

#TIFF23: Proud to announce our official 2023 Toronto International Film Festival partners!

If you’re around, tune in 12:45 PM ET as I appear on CP24, and also tomorrow 8:45 AM ET again!

One lucky winner in the Toronto area will win an amazing TIFF Survivial Pack!… pic.twitter.com/FatPYYV5wb

— MR. WILL WONG 📸 (@mrwillw) September 6, 2023

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Rules and regulations here. Note: You nust be legal drinking age to enter.

Bookmark this page here for daily updates and reviews. We’re excited to bring you our best coverage!

Need some tips to navigate TIFF ’23? Check this out:

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Team Mr. Will

#TIFF23: PATRICIA ARQUETTE TO RECEIVE SHARE HER JOURNEY GROUNDBREAKER AWARD

Cameron Bailey, CEO of TIFF, is delighted to announce that Academy award–winning actor, women’s rights activist, and entrepreneur Patricia Arquette will receive the TIFF Share Her Journey Groundbreaker Award presented by Bulgari during the 48th edition of the Toronto International Film Festival. Arquette is the final honouree to be announced ahead of the 2023 TIFF Tribute Awards, taking place Sunday, September 10 at Fairmont Royal York Hotel, presented by Bulgari.

The TIFF Share Her Journey Groundbreaker Award, presented by Bulgari, recognizes a woman who is a leader in the film industry and has made a positive impact on women throughout their career. The award is inspired by TIFF’s Share Her Journey initiative, created to address gender parity in the film industry, to champion women at every stage of their creative journey, and to shine a spotlight on women creators making a significant difference in the industry. Academy award–winning actor Michelle Yeoh was honoured at last year’s Awards.

“We take great pride in recognizing Patricia Arquette’s remarkable contributions both in front of and behind the camera, as exemplified by the Share Her Journey Groundbreaker Award and the premiere of her directorial debut, Gonzo Girl, at the Festival,” said Bailey. “Being one of Hollywood’s most audacious talents, Patricia consistently challenges conventions and elevates the discourse on salary equity for women through her influential platform.”

Her career has spanned genres and decades in film and television, from her breakout role in Tony Scott’s True Romance, to her memorable performances in Tim Burton’s Ed Wood, David Lynch’s Lost Highway, and Richard Linklater’s Boyhood. Arquette returns to the Festival with her directorial debut Gonzo Girl, starring Willem Dafoe and Camila Morrone, based on Cheryl Della Pietra’s semi-autobiographical novel chronicling her time as Hunter S. Thompson’s personal assistant.

The Tribute Awards gala is TIFF’s largest annual fundraiser, having raised $1.3 million in 2022, and is presented by Bulgari, sharing their commitment to arts and culture along with TIFF. 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.

#TIFF23: VICKY KRIEPS TO BE HONOURED AT TIFF TRIBUTE GALA

Cameron Bailey, CEO of TIFF, is delighted to announce that award-winning actor Vicky Krieps will receive the TIFF Tribute Performer Award at the fifth annual Awards gala on Sunday, September 10, at Fairmont Royal York Hotel. Presented by Bulgari, the TIFF Tribute Awards honour the film industry’s outstanding contributors and their achievements, recognizing leading industry members, acting talent, directorial expertise, new talent, and a below-the-line artist and creator.

Krieps is being recognized for her outstanding body of work and returns to the Festival this year for the World Premiere of Viggo Mortensen’s The Dead Don’t Hurt. The Luxembourgish, Berlin-based actor joins recently announced fellow Tribute Performer Award recipient Colman Domingo in this prestigious acting category. Past recipients of this Award include Brendan Fraser and the ensemble cast of My Policeman in 2022; Jessica Chastain and Benedict Cumberbatch in 2021; Kate Winslet and Sir Anthony Hopkins in 2020; and Meryl Streep and Joaquin Phoenix in 2019.

“Vicky’s transformative performances illuminate the screen, weaving emotions into a tapestry of storytelling,” said Bailey. “Her dedication to her craft and her ability to embody diverse roles with profound authenticity make her a true luminary in the realm of cinema.”

Krieps, who has established a career of playing a wide range of roles, is best known for her breakthrough role in Paul Thomas Anderson’s Phantom Thread starring opposite Daniel Day-Lewis, and standout performances in past Festival selections, including Bergman Island, Corsage, and The Survivor. In The Dead Don’t Hurt, Krieps plays Vivienne Le Coudy, a fiercely independent French-Canadian flower seller, starring alongside Mortensen, who plays a Danish carpenter, in his 1860s-set feminist western about immigrants attempting to forge a life in a corrupt Nevada town.

In addition to Krieps and Domingo, the 2023 TIFF Tribute Award honourees to date are: Andy Lau, recipient of the Special Tribute Award; Carolina Markowicz, recipient of the TIFF Emerging Talent Award presented by MGM Studios; Łukasz Żal, recipient of the TIFF Variety Artisan Award; Shawn Levy, recipient of the Norman Jewison Career Achievement Award presented by The Budman Family; Pedro Almodóvar, recipient of the Jeff Skoll Award in Impact Media presented by Participant; and Spike Lee, recipient of the TIFF Ebert Director Award.

The Tribute Awards gala is TIFF’s largest annual fundraiser, having raised $1.3 million in 2022, and is presented by Bulgari, sharing their commitment to arts and culture along with TIFF. 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.

#TIFF23: TEAM MR. WILL’S TOP FIVE TIFF PICKS

I think many of you will share in the sentiment that we are thankful just to have a Film Festival amidst what have been very trying times as the world navigates the SAG-AFTRA strike. While things look quieter this year, Team Mr. Will as every year, is ready to bring their A-Game and you can expect some amazing coverage, whether it be reviews, talent sightings and red carpets.

David Baldwin (missing sadly in the banner photo), Amanda Gilmore, George Kozera, Nicholas Porteous, Justin Waldman and myself share our top five films (sometimes in no specific order) we are most excited about at the Festival this year!

Be sure to bookmark this page for all our TIFF ’23 updates daily!

DAVID BALDWIN (@DaveMABaldwin)

1. Dream Scenario
2. The Holdovers
3. Hit Man
4. Knox Goes Away
5. The Boy and the Heron

I have been attending TIFF physically/virtually since 2010, and I will not mince words – it is my favourite time of the year. Sure, TIFF ’23 is going to be way different without many of the Actors and Writers in town to promote, but their fighting for their rights and the very future of their professions is much, much, MUCH more important than seeing them here in Toronto (I just hope the strikes are resolved before TIFF ’24!). That said, the focus of the Festival has rightly shifted to the movies and there are plenty of surefire bangers that are going to be unmissable over these 11 days. There is a little bit of something for everyone and getting to be amongst the first audiences in the world to see the films together at Roy Thomson Hall, the Princess of Wales, the Royal Alexandra Theatre (or the RAT as the Midnight Madness crew calls it), the TIFF Bell Lightbox and the Scotiabank is a genuinely thrilling prospect. So get hyped fam, and come say hi if you see me. I’ll be the guy with glasses and bleary eyes who has not seen proper daylight for a week.

AMANDA GILMORE (@GilmoreAmanda)

Although TIFF ’23 is missing some of my most anticipated films of the year (Maestro, The Killer, Poor Things), there are still plenty of titles I’m eagerly awaiting. Everyone I know who’s seen Fair Play has told me it’s a must-see. I love a Thriller about gender and power dynamics so I’m all in! The plot of Fingernails has piqued my interest more than any other title in the line-up this year. Plus I’m a huge fan of Jessie Buckley, Riz Ahmed and Jeremy Allen White. Out of all the films I missed at Cannes, The Delinquents is the one I’m most upset about. Everyone I know has raved about it, and this is my second chance! Out of all the films with actors working as Directors and stars, Woman of the Hour is the one that stands out for me. A Crime-Mystery-Thriller coming from Anna Kendrick just feels right. As a huge fan of ’21s Drive My Car, I cannot wait to see Evil Does Not Exist. I know Ryusuke Hamaguchi won’t disappoint. Happy TIFF everyone!

1. Fair Play
2. Fingernails
3. The Delinquents
4. Woman of the Hour
5. Evil Does Not Exist

NICHOLAS PORTEOUS (@NoveltyHat)

1. The Zone of Interest
2. The Boy and the Heron
3. Fingernails
4. Dream Scenario
5. Anatomy of a Fall 

This year’s TIFF is decidedly low-key and the lineup is somewhat lacking in obvious heavy-hitters or *guaranteed* masterpieces, so a couple of unexpected gambles have found their way to the top of my most anticipated list! The first couple are generally safe bets–Jonathan Glazer doesn’t make movies often, but when he does they always leave an impact. The Zone of Interest is his vision of the holocaust and I’ve heard it’s on another level. The Boy and the Heron is reportedly Hayao Miyazaki‘s final film–the culmination of an unparalleled animated oeuvre. I’m not alone in my excitement–despite an abundance of screenings, I’m still searching for tickets! Fingernails is a compelling question mark. The first English-language film from Christos Nikou, a close disciple of Yorgos Lanthimos, with Riz Ahmed, Jessie Buckley, Jeremy Allen White, and a tantalizingly bizarre premise about an institute that investigates the authenticity of romantic relationships. I’m a sucker for this kind of weird, wild stuff. Speaking of weird, wild stuff–Dream Scenario, the A24 Nicolas Cage movie about a university professor who unwittingly appears in everyone’s–literally everyone’s–dreams. Sold. Anatomy of a Fall won the Palme d’Or and features Sandra Huller, who I last saw in Toni Erdmann. Here, she’s on trial for allegedly murdering her husband. Am I excited by that description? Of course! Case CLOSED!

JUSTIN WALDMAN (@DubsReviews)

There is never an order to top five or ten lists I make. I don’t like putting things in an order it’s too much pressure and life needs less pressure and a little more chaos. So let the chaos begin!

1. The Promised Land
2. Dicks: The Musical
3. Boy Kills World
4. Wicked Little Lies
5. Smugglers

Special mentions: The Holdovers, Dream Scenario, Wildcat, Knox Goes Away, Woman of the Hour

There’s a lot at TIFF this year that is exciting and deserving of the spotlight. While some of the more high profile titles may be missing due to the ongoing SAG-AGTRA/WGA strike (which I FULLY support) there are still plenty of exciting and buzzy titles to be had at this years festival. Directorial debuts, new features from some great Directors, Nicolas Cage doing Nicolas Cage things, Fathers directing daughters, and so much more so strap yourself in for a King Street that may actually be walkable and the 2023 edition of TIFF! 

GEORGE KOZERA (@PARTYG)

Many of this year’s selections whetted my appetite, but these five had me salivating with anticipation!

NEXT GOAL WINS

Starring Michael Fassbender, in a rare comedic role, I’m sure this movie will be funny and heartfelt, and you’ll find me in the line-up!

THE ZONE OF INTEREST

After its rapturous reception at this year’s Cannes Film Festival, Director Jonathan Glazer‘s THE ZONE OF INTEREST addresses subject matter that while harrowing and numbing, is important to me. The horrors of Auschwitz should never be forgotten.

SING SING/RUSTIN

Colman Domingo is the reason these two movies are my perfect double bill this year at TIFF. I cannot wait especially to see what Director George C. Wolfe brings to the screen as I have been mesmerized by his work on Broadway and his coup de grace as Director of the screen version of Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom.

MONSTER

Director Kore-eda Hirokazu wowed us a TIFF ’18 with “Shoplifters“. It was the benchmark of excellence I wanted throughout that year. All I know is that it won the Queer Palme Award at Cannes and it’s Hirokazu. I need nothing more!

MR. WILL (@mrwillw)

1. Fair Play
2. Daddio
3. Sing Sing
4. Fingernails
5. Lee

I love a good messy story and FAIR PLAY has the looks of everything I love. This Erotic Thriller by Writer/Director Chloe Domont garnered raves at Sundance, exploring what happens when a couple who work together (Phoebe Dynevor and Alden Ehrenreich) are up for a promotion and the aftermath of that when one gets the job. DADDIO from Writer/Director Christy Hall, explores an unlikely connection struck between cab driver (Sean Penn) and a woman (Dakota Johnson) boarding a taxi from JFK Airport. SING SING features a showstopping performance from amazing Primetime Emmy and 2023 TIFF Tribute Award winner Colman Domingo as a prisoner who escapes his grim reality in a theatre troupe. And if all the buzz we’ve heard about it in advance of the Fest is true, we’re ready for a huge treat! Shot right here in Toronto, we were so intrigued by Cate Blanchett-produced FINGERNAILS, which explores whether a couple really has true love after a test tells them so. Kate Winslet can do no wrong in my books and we’re excited to see her as Lee Miller, who went from fashion model to American Photojournalist, capturing iconic photographs during World War II, changing our perception of the world.

Happy TIFF!

(Photo/video credit: Mr. Will Wong)

#TIFF23: ROUTE 504 PR ON NAVIGATING THE 2023 TORONTO INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

With it being a very unusual year navigating the SAG-AFTRA strike, we chat with some seasoned Public Relations and Communications experts on how they will navigate TIFF ’23. Today we profile our esteemed colleagues Angie Burns and Ally LaMere–Shedden at ROUTE 504 PR.

With this being a unique year, how do the SAG-AFTRA strike-related changes impact your strategy in publicizing and promoting films at the Festival?

Route 504 PR: We are so excited for this year’s fest because Canadian talent is front and center. We stand with the WGA and SAG-AFTRA and their right to demand better contracts but without American talent, our Canadian films are truly shining.

Can you highlight a few films in your slate you particularly are excited about?

Ally: I have two really great films I’m excited about this year: Humanist Vampire Seeking Consenting Suicidal Person from dir. Ariane Louis-Seize (which might have the coolest title at TIFF this year) and Motherland from dir. Jasmin Mozaffari.

Angie: I’m excited about all of our films at TIFF this year! Cheeseballs, but it’s true.

What you’re looking forward to most about TIFF ’23?

Ally: As always, I’m looking forward to the hustle and bustle of TIFF with all my friends and colleagues within a four-block radius, it feels like summer camp every year and i’ll never get over that.

Angie: Working with Canadian creatives is the highlight of every TIFF for me. It’s often these filmmakers’ first time on a world stage and it’s exciting and wonderful watching them shine.

The 2023 Toronto International Film Festival runs September 7 through 17, 2023. We appreciate ROUTE 504 PR for sharing their time with us amidst these busy times and also their year-round support!

#TIFF23: AVA DUVERNAY’S “ORIGIN” TO PREMIERE AS LATE ADDITION GALA

TIFF CEO, Cameron Bailey, is excited to announce that filmmaker Ava DuVernay will return to TIFF with her latest offering, Origin. DuVernay’s film will have a Gala screening at Roy Thomson Hall on Monday, September 11th. DuVernay will be in attendance.

Written, produced, and directed by Academy Award nominee Ava DuVernay, Origin chronicles the remarkable life and work of Pulitzer Prize-winning author Isabel Wilkerson (played by Academy Award nominee Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor) as she investigates the genesis of injustice and uncovers a hidden truth that affects us all.

Origin stands as a unique account of the intimacy within a writer’s quest for truth. DuVernay creates powerful cinematic images from the stories that Wilkerson brought to light in her non-fiction work Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents, as well as the tragic moments of her personal life which framed her writing. It results in a deeply moving portrait of grief and healing — both personally and in the world.

“Ava DuVernay’s Origin is a brilliantly crafted showcase of her talent as a writer, producer, and director. This is audacious filmmaking on a grand, global scale,” said Bailey, “DuVernay deftly weaves Isabel Wilkerson’s big idea about how we live into a beautiful narrative of passion and discovery. I can’t wait for Toronto audiences to feel its power.”

Paul Garnes and DuVernay produced Origin under her ARRAY Filmworks banner, and Thane Watkins serves as co-executive producer.

Along with Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor and Jon Bernthal, Origin stars Niecy Nash-Betts, Vera Farmiga, Audra McDonald, Nick Offerman, Blair Underwood, Connie Nielsen, Emily Yancy, Jasmine Cephas Jones, Finn Wittrock, Victoria Pedretti, Isha Blaaker, and Myles Frost. The team of artists behind Origin was led by cinematographer Matthew J. Lloyd, ASC, production designer Ina Mayhew, editor Spencer Averick A.C.E, composer Kris Bowers, costume designer Dominique Dawson, and casting director Aisha Coley.

Tickets for Origin go on sale Monday, September 4 at 10 AM ET. Check tiff.net for more information.

#TIFF23: THE TARO GROUP ON NAVIGATING THE 2023 TORONTO INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

With it being a very unusual year navigating the SAG-AFTRA strike, we chat with some seasoned Public Relations and Communications experts on how they will navigate TIFF ’23. Today we profile our esteemed colleagues at THE TARO GROUP.

Headquartered in Toronto, they are a leading entertainment full-service Communications and Digital agency, servicing studio and independent film companies, immersive art exhibits, experiential events and pop-ups.

With this being a unique year, tell us how the SAG-AFTRA strike-related changes impact your strategy in publicizing and promoting films at the Festival.

The Taro Group: This year we’re evolving the strategy & communications for the film campaigns that we are handling at TIFF around the Filmmakers, with everything being on a smaller scale and more intimate. All those attending are proud to represent their team members who wish they could be here (but can’t be due to the ongoing strike).

Please highlight for us a few films in your slate you particularly are excited for TIFF-goers to discover.

The Taro Group: Our film slate is big this year and many include remarkable real-life stories including Elevation Pictures‘ Lee, Sing Sing and Dumb Money and films by Canadian directors with Seven Veils, Irena’s Vow, Fitting In and many more.

What you’re looking forward to most about TIFF ’23?

The Taro Group: There is so much to look forward to; all of our premieres and photo calls, the reactions from moviegoers, working with all of our incredible media partners on a daily basis, seeing our US and international colleagues and coming together as an arts community to celebrate the film industry and everyone being a special part of it.

The 2023 Toronto International Film Festival runs September 7 through 17, 2023. We are thankful to The Taro Group for their support year-round and also for giving us their time so generously.

Stay tuned as we profile another top agency tomorrow and they share their insights how they plan to navigate this very unique Festival.

#TIFF23: FESTIVAL STREET RETURNS FOR 2023 TORONTO INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

Back for its eighth year, the excitement of the Toronto International Film Festival will pour out from the theatres onto Festival Street and David Pecaut Square. King Street West between Peter Street and University Avenue will transform into an open-air experience accessible by the general public.

New and exciting activations will line King Street in addition to food vendors, photo opportunities, and the Festival Street Music Stage housing musical performances throughout the opening weekend. There is no better way to celebrate “the people’s Festival” than with free activations dedicated to the Festival goers in Toronto.

“We’re thrilled to unveil this year’s Festival Street experience at TIFF. Embracing the heart and soul of the Festival, Festival Street will once again be a vibrant celebration of art, culture, and the shared love for storytelling,” said Cameron Bailey, CEO, TIFF. “As we welcome filmmakers, artists, and film enthusiasts from around the world, Festival Street will serve as a dynamic hub for connection, creativity, and unforgettable moments. Join us as we transform the streets of Festival Village into a shining example of community spirit at this year’s TIFF.”

MORE MOVIES AND MUSIC FOR FREE

Toronto’s biggest street party kicks off with A Night of Jazz, in partnership with The Rex (194 Queen St. W.). On Thursday September 7, the Festival Street Music Stage will feature jazz legend Dave Young, Thompson Egbo-Ebgo, and the Jacob Chung Quintet, hosted by Raoul Bhaneja. Continuing the musical celebrations on Friday, September 8, Diamond certified rock band Nickelback hits the Festival Street Music Stage to promote the premiere of their TIFF Gala Presentation Hate to Love: Nickelback, an intimate portrait of the Canadian stadium rockers’ celebrated career to date. Additionally, electronica and pow wow techno artist Classic Roots will take the stage also on September 8. On Sunday September 10, revel in additional performances by Luna Elle (RBCxMusic Artist), Toronto Dance Theatre, and Doug Tielli. In celebration of the 50th anniversary of the birth of hip hop, the Festival Street Closing Performance will be by the Godmother of Canadian Rap, Michie Mee.

TIFF’s returning Cinema Park, presented by L’Oreal Paris, will present open-air screenings in David Pecaut Square, showcasing classic films of some of the talent in TIFF 2023 Official Selection films: The Spiderwick Chronicles; Batman; Contact; a 40th-anniversary screening of Superman III; a memorial tribute to Paul Reubens with Pee-Wee’s Big Adventure; Rocky; plus four screenings presented by the Next Wave committee which include a 30th-anniversary screening of Addams Family Values, Clueless, Hunt for the Wilderpeople, and Where the Wild Things Are.

New this year, the TIFF Next Wave Block Party, presented by Snapchat, takes place on Saturday September 9. This party will include additional performances from The Aubreys, featuring Stranger Things star Finn Wolfhard; Alex Porat; winner of TIFF Next Wave’s Battle of the Scores, daydream; Sho Madjozi; and Grammy Award winner Zakes Bantwini. Also new this year is the Festival Street Art Market, a market filled with fun activities in celebration of art and community from the city’s most exciting community film festivals and arts organizations on Simcoe St. Participants include: Inside Out Film Festival, imagineNATIVE Film Festival, Reel Asian Film Festival, Regent Park Film Festival, Hot Docs, Native Canadian Centre of Toronto (NCCT), Muse Arts, Reel Canada, and Workman Arts.

Taking place during the first three days of Festival Street is the Festival Street Mural Project, where street artists Darcy Obokata and Tim Fukakusa (TIFF’s POP Japan mural artist) will create an exciting and evolving large art mural – a Toronto love letter to Hayao Miyazaki and Studio Ghibli. The mural will be an homage to Miyazaki and the studio’s influence on artists and film lovers all over the world, and will celebrate TIFF’s Opening Night International Premiere of Miyazaki’s latest, The Boy and the Heron.

Additional activations on Festival street include: Myseum of Toronto’s 36 Questions That Lead to Loving Toronto to Festival Street, an exhibition that invites Torontonians to fall in love with the city for the first time, or all over again; a Group Morning Mobility, a gentle mix of movement and meditation in David Pecaut Square by Have a Nice Day Pilates Studio on Saturday, September 9 at 11am for 30 minutes; and five additional vendors by BlackOwnedTO.

Torontonians and the City of Toronto are an integral part of TIFF and the Festival. Quite simply, Festival Street would not exist without their tremendous support. To say thank you to the city and the people who call it home, TIFF has once again partnered with the TTC to give Torontonians more access to Festival films. On Saturday, September 16, members of the public are invited to Roy Thomson Hall for the TTC Free Screening of a Festival title. More details will be announced closer to the date.

FESTIVAL STREET PARTNER ACTIVATIONS

Indeed – Indeed is bringing TIFF fans a double feature on the future of work at this year’s Street Festival. Feature One will take you on an exploration of tomorrow’s world of work through the lens of Indeed’s Rising Voices filmmakers, while Feature Two will help you craft your own narrative on the future of work, with a yummy twist. Each feature offers a captivating look at what the future has in store and a fun takeaway.

L’Oréal Paris – Taking a bold stand against street harassment: Join L’Oréal Paris and Right To Be in a powerful activation that empowers individuals to stand up against street harassment. On a mission to foster respect and dignity, we proudly introduce the Stand Up Against Street Harassment program. Through an immersive 5-minute training session, discover the impactful 5Ds methodology — Distract, Delegate, Document, Delay, Direct — equipping you to safely intervene against harassment. As a part of this movement, stand up, gain valuable tools to make a difference, and be a catalyst for change while receiving exciting incentives and products. Plus, stay tuned for special guest appearances and join us in creating a culture of empowerment and respect. Take a stand against street harassment: https://www.standup-international.com/ca/en/.

We at TIFF strive to create an inclusive environment for everyone and believe in a world where every individual has the right to move through public spaces without fear of harassment or discrimination. Street harassment can affect people across varying gender identities, sexuality, race, size, ability, and religion.

Peroni Nastro Azzurro – Celebrating premier(e) taste: Peroni Nastro Azzurro, the world’s number one premium Italian beer brand, is bringing a taste of Italy to Festival Village with the House of Peroni Nastro Azzurro in David Pecaut Square! The Italian-style open house will allow guests to enjoy the best of Italian hospitality, take in in red-carpet views with a VIP fan zone, and enjoy the premier(e) taste of Peroni Nastro Azzurro and Peroni Nastro Azzurro 0.0% alongside an exclusive menu curated by International Celebrity Chef, David Rocco.

Pizza Nova – Celebrating a legacy of delicious style! In honour of its 60th anniversary, Pizza Nova will be serving signature pizza slices during TIFF opening weekend. Located at the corner of King Street and Simcoe, the Pizza Nova sampling booth will keep movie-goers well fed. Be sure to stop by the Pizza Nova Pizzeria for a slice and have a look at the limited-edition retro merchandise on display.

Snapchat Presents: Next Wave Block Party –”We are proud to partner with TIFF to sponsor the inaugural Next Wave Block Party and Creator Talks,” said Matt McGowan, General Manager, Canada at Snap Inc. “Celebrating, supporting, and elevating local creators and content is at the core of what we do. And there is no shortage of exceptional talent and creativity in this city! We can’t wait to see it all come together on centre stage.” The TIFF Next Wave Committee is a group of 12 young film enthusiasts who curate teen-oriented films and events at TIFF Bell Lightbox, including the annual TIFF Next Wave Film Festival. Taking place for the first time ever, the TIFF Next Wave Block Party will take place Saturday, September 9. Performers include The Aubreys (featuring Finn Wolfhard of Stranger Things), Zakes Bantwini, Alex Porat, daydream, and Sho Madjozi.

Tourist Office of Spain – Spain, straight out of the movies – The Tourist Office of Spain is presenting a cinematic experience at the Street Festival. Spain, with its diverse landscapes and rich history, has long been a cherished destination for filmmakers worldwide. The activation offers a unique photo studio with green screen technology, allowing attendees to virtually visit famous Spanish film locations, from iconic Westerns to futuristic realms and historical tales. Additionally, a contest offers a chance to win Spanish gourmet products, enhancing the experience with culinary delights.

UPS ― Small Businesses, Big Roles: There are great stories waiting to be told everywhere. But not every filmmaker has the opportunity to tell theirs. Join UPS in uplifting diverse-owned small and medium businesses behind the camera in film with live printed Be Unstoppable Film Project Tote Bags. In 2022, UPS partnered with The Black List to help two emerging filmmakers tell their stories. The films we love wouldn’t be possible without diverse owned small and medium businesses behind the camera. This year, we are uplifting even more unheard voices – with a focus on changing perceptions around diverse small businesses’ roles in the craft of filmmaking by providing new perspectives.