The films to look out for at Toronto International Film Festival 2023

The 48th Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) is shaping up to be a robust and diverse event, despite the ongoing dual WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes in the film industry. 

Although the strike may affect actor participation in promotional activities, TIFF organisers are confident in offering a strong selection of independent movies and are hopeful that a resolution will be reached in time. Here are a few.

The festival has announced the first 60 feature films in what is expected to be a lineup of over 200 titles.

• Although the strike has affected the industry, TIFF CEO Cameron Bailey has assured audiences that there will be a "bumper crop" of acquisition titles this year.

TIFF 2023 will showcase a multitude of star-studded independent movies, many of which are available for sale and have domestic or international distribution rights up for grabs. However, the presence of actors at the red carpet premieres remains uncertain due to the SAG-AFTRA strike.

• Negotiator Duncan Crabtree-Ireland has mentioned that the guild is evaluating the issue, but until a resolution is reached between the guild and the studios (AMPTP), the participation of actors in promotional activities might be limited.

ALSO READ: Why the actors and writers strike is a nightmare for Hollywood

Movie studios are understandably concerned about the impact of the strike on their film releases. Some stars are attempting to secure waivers from SAG-AFTRA to participate in press activities for independently financed or distribution-seeking films.

• On the other hand, independent studios are moving forward with their release plans, hoping that a resolution will be reached before the festival begins.
•  However, the absence of major studio premieres indicates that some films may adjust their release dates depending on the strike's duration.

The festival will feature works from acclaimed directors such as Richard Linklater, Kore-eda Hirokazu, and Justine Triet. Some of these films previously premiered at Cannes, such as Monster and Anatomy of a Fall (Palme d'Or winner).

Awards strategists have expressed concerns that if the strike remains unresolved by mid-August, the likelihood of stars attending festivals like TIFF, Venice, or Telluride for motion picture and streaming features may be reduced. It remains uncertain whether more awards contenders or blockbuster tentpoles scheduled for Q3 or Q4 will be programmed at TIFF.

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Despite the challenges posed by the strikes, TIFF 2023 promises to be an exciting showcase of diverse and compelling films from both established directors and emerging talents.

Here's a list of films to watch out for at TIFF and why you should watch them:

Les Indésirables by Ladj Ly

A timely French drama exploring the social and political pressures faced by a young doctor turned mayor as he tries to gentrify a French working-class suburb, and shedding light on the social and political pressures faced by the marginalised that holds profound relevance given the current socio-political landscape of Paris.

The Zone of Interest by Jonathan Glazer

Set in Auschwitz, this period drama explores the life of the concentration camp's commandant and his wife, who strive to build a dream life despite their proximity to the camp and highlights the importance of remembrance to prevent  repetition.

Dumb Money by Craig Gillespie

A comedic portrayal of the GameStop short squeeze that follows a group of Reddit investors who take on hedge funds in a financial showdown, delving into the power of grassroots movements.

Anatomy of a Fall by Justine Triet

A gripping French thriller centered around a writer trying to prove her innocence in her husband's death, with her blind son as the only witness, emphasizing the importance of seeking truth and justice, especially when innocence is at stake and the truth is obscured.

Monster by Hirokazu Kore-Eda

A Japanese drama following a mother's journey as she confronts a teacher after noticing troubling changes in her son's behavior, that sensitively addresses mental health and the impact of encouraging empathy and understanding.

Fair Play by Chloe Domont

This intense American erotic thriller is important to watch as it navigates the complexities of power dynamics and toxic ambition in a cutthroat financial environment.

Flora & Son by John Carney

A heartwarming musical comedy-drama that pivots around a discarded guitar that forges an unexpected bond between a struggling single mother and a Los Angeles-based guitar teacher showing how simple acts of kindness can heal wounds and create unexpected bonds.

The End We Start From by Mahalia Belo

A gripping British survival film that follows a new mother and her baby as they flee northwards after an ecological crisis leaves their home in flooded London, highlighting the  urgency of environmental issues and the human struggle for survival in the face of ecological crises.

The Movie Emperor by Ning Hao

A sharp satirical take on movie industry pretension, with Andy Lau portraying a movie star seeking relevance through a film festival-baiting art-house role. This movie is crucial to watch for its commentary on the pursuit of authenticity in an increasingly commercialized world.

The Royal Hotel by Kitty Green

A social thriller that explores toxic masculinity in the Australian Outback, following two best friends who take a live-in job at a remote pub and encounter unexpected dangers, offering important insights on gender dynamics.

The Holdovers by Alexander Payne

A heartwarming comedy-drama about a Barton Academy teacher dealing with a rebellious student during the Christmas break thst emphasizes the value and transformative power of human connection, especially during times of isolation.

Fingernails by Christos Nikou

An intriguing science fiction romance where a woman works at an institute determining the authenticity of love in couples, underscoring the importance of authentic connections in our lives.

Wildcat by Ethan Hawke

A biographical drama about American novelist Flannery O'Connor, featuring a star-studded cast including Ethan Hawke's daughter, Maya Hawke, Laura Linney, Vincent D'Onofrio, and Steve Zahn,is an essential watch for its celebration of artistic courage and creativity.

Hit Man by Richard Linklater

An undercover cop's life takes a dramatic turn when he poses as a hitman, leading him to an unexpected encounter with a woman in need, delving into the complexities of morality, law enforcement, and personal responsibility.

Rustin by George C Wolfe

This biographical drama portrays the life of gay civil rights activist Bayard Rustin, highlighting his instrumental role in organizing the 1963 March on Washington, making it a  must-watch for its portrayal of unsung heroes and their pivotal contributions to history.

La Chimera by Alice Rohrwacher

Set in the 1980s, a young British archaeologist gets entangled in an international network of stolen Etruscan artifacts, making it a period romantic drama filled with intrigue, underscoring the importance of preserving cultural heritage.

Woman of the Hour by Anna Kendrick

A compelling American drama based on the life of serial killer Rodney Alcala, known for his chilling appearance on The Dating Game during his murder spree. It underscores the importance of learning from history's most disturbing chapters to prevent similar atrocities in the future.

To know more about TIFF and how the Fall Festival cycle affects the awards race, have a look at: How To Win An Oscar