The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) is celebrating its milestone 50th edition, offering a vibrant lineup of over 200 featured films scheduled for screening from September 4 to 14, 2025. The festival, once known as the Festival of Festivals, promises to spotlight a mix of star-studded projects, innovative international cinema, and fresh talent making their directorial debuts.
Among the noteworthy films featured at TIFF this year is "BLUE MOON," directed by Richard Linklater. This Canadian premiere stars Ethan Hawke as Lorenz Hart, a prolific but troubled lyricist navigating a tumultuous evening at Sardi’s restaurant during Broadway's golden age. As Hart grapples with his feelings of inadequacy in comparison to his former collaborator Richard Rodgers, played by Andrew Scott, the film showcases a unique narrative about artistic rivalry and personal crises. The cast also includes Margaret Qualley and Bobby Cannavale, adding depth to this poignant exploration of the creative spirit.
Next on the list is "CHRISTY," a biopic centered on Christy Martin, an iconic figure in women’s boxing during the 1990s. Sydney Sweeney takes on the titular role, marking a potential career-defining moment as she undergoes an intense physical transformation to embody Martin, a survivor of domestic abuse. Directed by David Michôd, known for the Brad Pitt film "War Machine," this feature aims to portray Martin's resilience both in and out of the ring.
"ELEANOR THE GREAT" makes waves with its comedic drama, directed by Scarlett Johansson in her directorial debut. The film, which recently debuted to positive reviews at the Cannes Film Festival, features June Squibb as a cheeky nonagenarian whose moral boundaries often blur. The film explores themes of grief and the narratives we create around our experiences, showcasing Johansson’s fresh perspective as a filmmaker.
Another anticipated entry is "FRANKENSTEIN,” helmed by the acclaimed Guillermo del Toro. This adaptation of Mary Shelley’s classic novel promises a bold reinterpretation of the story, with Oscar Isaac playing the obsessive doctor Victor Frankenstein and Jacob Elordi portraying the creature. Given del Toro's mastery of gothic storytelling, expectations are high for a visually and emotionally rich experience that expands the narrative’s traditional boundaries.
Aziz Ansari makes his directorial debut with "GOOD FORTUNE." The film features Keanu Reeves as a meddling angel and Ansari himself as a food delivery driver. Together, they engage in a comical life-swap scenario with a tech billionaire, played by Seth Rogen, leading to unpredictable chaos and lessons in empathy as they walk a mile in each other’s shoes.
In the realm of animated storytelling, "HEN" introduces audiences to a heroine portrayed by multiple real-life chickens. Directed by György Pálfi, this film blends humor with poignant social commentary, drawing parallels between the hen’s quest for belonging and broader issues like the European migrant crisis. Pálfi’s previous work, including the cult classic "Taxidermia," sets a compelling backdrop for this new narrative.
Chandler Levack’s "MILE END KICKS" offers a semi-autobiographical look at her experiences as a young female culture journalist. Centered around an aspiring music critic, the film captures the excitement and challenges of youth while exploring the vibrant rock scene in early 2010s Montreal. Barbie Ferreira stars in a role that promises to resonate with those navigating the complexities of early adulthood.
Additionally, the unique documentary "MODERN WHORE," written and narrated by Andrea Werhun, dives into her life as a sex worker. Balancing dark themes with humor, the film employs dramatizations alongside interviews, effectively portraying the multifaceted nature of her experiences in the industry.
Lastly, "NIRVANNA THE BAND THE SHOW THE MOVIE" revives the cult comedy series created by Matt Johnson, who returns to the screen with fellow co-writer Jay McCarrol. Their latest antics, involving extravagant schemes to secure a performance at Toronto’s The Rivoli, promise a wild ride filled with time travel, stunts, and comedic misadventures, having already garnered acclaim with a standing ovation at the SXSW premiere.
The much-anticipated "WAKE UP DEAD MAN: A KNIVES OUT MYSTERY,” directed by Rian Johnson, brings back detective Benoit Blanc, played by Daniel Craig, as he investigates another intricate case involving a small-town church community facing a crisis of faith. With a star-studded cast including Josh Brolin and Glenn Close, the film is poised to be a darker addition to the franchise, following the path of its successful predecessors.
As TIFF celebrates its milestone anniversary, this year’s selection not only highlights a variety of storytelling styles but also celebrates new voices in filmmaking, making it an event not to be missed.
