The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) is back in the city from September 7 to 17, bringing an annual dose of arts and culture to the city.
Among the dozens of films playing at this year’s festival, here are a handful that you’ll definitely want to watch.
The Boy and the Heron
Already a beloved piece in Japan, this movie follows the story of a boy who is forced to move to the countryside after a family tragedy during World War II, and his life is forever changed. The movie was originally supposed to be an adaptation of the book How Do You Live? by Genzaburo Yoshino but the book itself is just one layer of this movie, which also pulls from director Hayao Miyazaki’s own life. The Boy and the Heron was created by the same filmmaker who brought audiences works such as Spirited Away and Princess Mononoke.
Close to You
Close to You tells the story of Sam, a Toronto man who is visiting his hometown of Cobourg for the first time since he transitioned, and Katherine, a friend with whom he has an unresolved history. The film revolves around a story that is familiar to the film’s star and producer, Elliot Page, who came out as transgender in 2020. The drama features a Canadian cast and is sure to be an instant-classic for queer film lovers.
Woman of the Hour
Woman of the Hour marks the directorial debut of beloved actress Anna Kendrick. The film follows the chilling true crime story of Rodney Alcala, a serial killer who appeared on the TV show The Dating Game in the 1970s. Alcala appeared on the show in the midst of his reign of terror, despite having already being a registered sex offender and having been recently released from prison. Widely anticipated, the film is set to be a hit for fans of true crime.
Dumb Money
Remember the GameStop Wall Street scandal that rocked the investment world and took over headlines back in 2021? Dumb Money digs into the whole story, following the battle between billionaire hedge fund managers and amateur investors that went viral during the pandemic. The film also boasts a star-studded cast which includes the likes of Pete Davidson, Shailene Woodley, and America Ferrera.
Lil Nas X: Long Live Montero
Call him when you want, call him when you need! Lil Nas X has taken the radio by storm over the past few years, and now his story is coming to the big screen. Born Montero Lamar Hill, the singer has become a pop icon. From his industry beginnings, with chart-topper “Old Town Road” breaking records, to his popular stadium tours, Lil Nas X: Long Live Montero follows the success of Lil Nas X and includes both tour footage and a sneak peak at life behind the scenes.
This year’s TIFF is set to be one for the books! From dramas to documentaries, these are just a handful of the tons of films coming to the city over the next ten days that you won’t want to miss!
