Anticipated Start in Toronto: Awaiting Presence of Jolie, Crowe, and Hoss
The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) is gearing up for its 50th anniversary, set to take place from September 3 to September 14, 2025. This year's festival promises an exciting lineup of films, special events, and notable guests.
TIFF is a significant gateway to the North American film industry and a launchpad, as stated by Simone Baumann, CEO of German Films. The festival's strong global focus and openness towards films from Asia, Latin America, Africa, and Iran make it a crucial platform for filmmakers worldwide.
This year, TIFF will open on Thursday evening (local time) with the world premiere of "John Candy: I Like Me". The festival will close with Anne Émond's romantic comedy "Peak Everything". Among the highly anticipated films are Joscha Bongard's "Babystar" and Agnieszka Holland's "Franz" about Franz Kafka, both of which will have their world premieres at TIFF.
TIFF is also an important part of the Oscar campaign for films, as demonstrated by the momentum for "Look into the Sun". The festival's jubilee edition will see the TIFF Tribute Performer Award being given to German actress Nina Hoss, who can also be seen in Nia DaCosta's Ibsen interpretation "Hedda" at TIFF.
Prominent guests this year include Keanu Reeves, Idris Elba, and Kirsten Dunst. Idris Elba will receive the TIFF Tribute Award in Impact Media, while Catherine O'Hara will be honoured with the TIFF Norman Jewison Career Achievement Award. In addition, the TIFF Tribute Performer Award will be given to Nina Hoss and Channing Tatum.
TIFF is considered the most important stage in North America, and this year is no exception. Over 290 films from nearly 50 countries are on the program until September 14. Some of the other notable films include Baz Luhrmann's concert documentary "EPiC: Elvis Presley in Concert" and "The Road Between Us: The Ultimate Rescue", a documentary telling the story of the Hamas terror attack on October 7, 2023 from the Israeli perspective.
Cameron Bailey, CEO of the festival, stated that TIFF is curating film canon with its selection. As the festival celebrates its 50th anniversary, it continues to champion diversity and innovation in cinema, making it an exciting event not to be missed.
