The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) has always been a cinephile's paradise, where the world's most talented filmmakers gather to showcase their cinematic masterpieces. In 2023, TIFF did not disappoint, bringing together a stunning array of films that captivated audiences and critics alike. From thought-provoking dramas to whimsical comedies, this year's festival featured a diverse selection of movies that left a lasting impression.
Here are a few of this year’s TIFF films you need to put on your must-watch list:
Dream Scenario
Release date: November 10
In A24's Dream Scenario, Nicolas Cage takes on the role of a seemingly mundane professor, a character whose life takes a wild turn when he becomes the center of attention for dozens of strangers who inexplicably dream about him. The resulting chaos and absurdity that ensue are so outrageous and insanely funny that the audience couldn't help but roar with laughter throughout.
Dream Scenario is a testament to Cage's unparalleled talent for embracing the bizarre and delivering performances that are nothing short of extraordinary. If you have a penchant for the peculiar and a taste for the offbeat, this film is unequivocally your jam. Dream Scenario is a cinematic oddity that demands to be seen on the big screen, an exhilarating journey into the eccentric and a must-see for lovers of the truly weird and wonderful in film.
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Origin
Release date: TBD
Based on the life of renowned author Isabel Wilkerson, Ava DuVernay's Origin stars the talented Aunjanue Ellis as Wilkerson herself. In a performance that has left audiences awe-struck, Ellis portrays the author during a tumultuous period in her life. Grappling with tremendous personal tragedy and the loss of great love, Wilkerson embarks on a journey of global investigation and discovery as she writes her groundbreaking book, "Caste: The Origin of Our Discontents."
What makes Ava DuVernay's Origin truly exceptional is its ability to be both moving and intellectually stimulating simultaneously. This film is a testament to DuVernay's storytelling prowess, reminding us that she is among the most powerful and important storytellers of our time. It's a cinematic experience that will not only move you to tears but also inspire conversations that will echo for days. Ava DuVernay's Origin serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring impact of cinema and the ability of film to touch hearts and minds alike.
Hit Man
Release date: TBD
Richard Linklater's Hit Man is an absolute blast and quickly solidifies its place among the best of his works. Overflowing with sharp wit, humor, and moments of undeniable sensuality, this film features Glen Powell delivering a career-defining performance. Powell's portrayal of an undercover hitman, entangled in a web of romance with the captivating Adria Arjona, is nothing short of electrifying. Their chemistry on screen elevates the movie to new heights, making it a must-see with a lively audience, where the laughter and excitement become infectious.
American Fiction
Release date: November 17
Cord Jefferson's American Fiction has emerged as a standout gem at the 2023 Toronto International Film Festival, leaving both audiences and critics thoroughly entertained. In what might be one of the most captivating offerings at TIFF, this film is a biting social satire, cleverly dissecting the landscape of modern-day Black storytelling. The dynamic duo of Jeffrey Wright and the exceptional Sterling K. Brown takes the lead in this thought-provoking narrative, delivering performances that leave an indelible mark.
The film follows Monk, a frustrated novelist, who's grown disillusioned with an entertainment industry profiting from tired and offensive Black tropes. In a daring move to expose this hypocrisy, Monk adopts a pen name and writes an audacious novel, thrusting himself into the very heart of the madness he so vehemently criticizes. American Fiction is a testament to its outstanding writing and its fearless exploration of complex issues within the realm of Black creativity. It is a must-see for anyone seeking an intelligent, thought-provoking, and thoroughly entertaining cinematic experience that challenges conventions and sparks essential conversations.
The Holdovers
Release date: November 10
Alexander Payne's The Holdovers is a heartwarming journey back to the '70s, a delightful throwback that explores the bonds of friendship and shared solitude. Set against the backdrop of Christmas break at a New England prep school, this film is a sweet and nostalgic tale that exudes holiday vibes.
At its core, The Holdovers revolves around a curmudgeonly instructor who opts to remain on campus during the holiday season, entrusted with the care of a handful of students who have nowhere else to go. It's during this time that he forges unlikely connections, forming a heartwarming bond with a brainy but emotionally scarred troublemaker and the school's head cook (a wonderful Da'Vine Joy Randolph), a woman who carries the heavy burden of losing her son in the Vietnam War. The film's humor, sweetness, and the palpable camaraderie among its characters will wrap around your heart like cherries flambé, leaving you with a sense of warmth and nostalgia that lingers long after the credits roll.
Woman of the Hour
Release: TBD
Anna Kendrick's directorial debut, Woman of the Hour, delves into the chilling true story of a 1978 episode of The Dating Game, where a serial killer appeared as a contestant. Kendrick, who also stars in the film, showcases her impressive skills behind the camera, delivering a tension-filled thriller that has become one of the most buzzed-about films at TIFF. True crime enthusiasts are in for a riveting experience with this gripping portrayal of a horrifying real-life event.
Anatomy of a Fall
Release: TBD
Anatomy of a Fall, a 2023 French courtroom drama thriller directed by Justine Triet, unfolds the gripping tale of Sandra, a German writer entangled in a web of mystery and murder in the wintry landscapes of France. Accused of killing her husband under enigmatic circumstances, Sandra faces an uphill battle as her 11-year-old blind son becomes the sole witness to the tragic event. With Sandra Hüller delivering a compelling Oscar-worthy performance as the central character, this film explores her relentless pursuit to prove her innocence during a high-stakes trial, crafting an intense narrative that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.
Dicks: The Musical
Release date: October 6
In the uproarious and irreverently hilarious musical, Dicks: The Musical, two self-absorbed businessmen, portrayed by the witty and dynamic duo of writers Aaron Jackson and Josh Sharp, uncover a jaw-dropping secret: they are long-lost identical twins.
As this outrageous revelation unravels, they embark on a side-splitting quest to engineer the reunion of their eccentric, divorced parents. This riotous cinematic extravaganza, helmed by comedy icon Larry Charles (known for his work on Seinfeld and Borat), boasts a star-studded ensemble cast, featuring the likes of Megan Thee Stallion, Nathan Lane, Megan Mullally, and Bowen Yang in the divine role of God. Prepare for a musical experience that's as depraved as it is side-splittingly funny, as Dicks: The Musical takes you on a wild and unforgettable ride.
The 2023 Toronto International Film Festival showcased an incredible array of cinematic talent and storytelling prowess. From the mind-bending Dream Scenario to the heartwarming nostalgia of The Holdovers and the uproarious laughter of Dicks: The Musical, this year's festival offered something for everyone. These films not only entertained but also provoked thought, stirred emotions, and left a lasting impact. As we bid adieu to another remarkable TIFF, we eagerly anticipate the next chapter in the world of cinema, knowing that it will undoubtedly bring more cinematic treasures to savor and celebrate.
