From September 5-15, the 49th edition of the Toronto International Film Festival took place, and I was privileged to have my third immersive TIFF experience.
What blew me away this year was how much Torontonians and the people who attend this world famous festival absolutely love film.
I saw filmgoers lining up for hours in the rush lines; patiently sitting on the street with computers and snacks at the ready. People of all ages and backgrounds come from all over the GTA and the rest of the world. Whether they are there to watch celebrities, to geek out on all kinds of motion pictures or just for the overall experience, there is a palpable feeling of community. Everyone is ready to chat about films or celebrity sightings.
The first weekend attracts a huge crowd as King shuts down and becomes Festival Street with free films, giveaways, and live entertainment. The best freebies this year were the large Ferrero Rocher chocolate bars that never ran out, no matter how long the line was. There were also tasty Beyond Meat sliders, drink samples and more.
It is never too early to plan for next year. So if you are up for an immersive experience/staycation for the 50th TIFF, read on.
Where to Stay
I stayed in three hotels during TIFF this year. These three are also good for a downtown staycation and the prices are much lower now.
The Hyatt Regency
Tried and true–I love staying here during TIFF for three reasons: the great and helpful staff, the convenience (the Industry Centre and Box Office are right in the building!) and the rooftop pool, which is always incredibly warm and stays open throughout the temperate days of early September.
The New Sutton Place Hotel
The original Sutton Place closed about ten years ago, and it used to be a major location for TIFF events and press conferences. I was excited when I noticed that the warehouse at the corner of King St. West and Blue Jays Way, just across the street from the Hyatt Regency, had been rebranded as the new Sutton Place. I had a wonderful stay in a huge decked out room, with a huge luxurious bed, a nice sofa and a state of the art Smart TV. It honestly felt like I had my own apartment. The personal microwave and fridge were also very helpful along with the large bathroom and rain shower. The hotel boasts a signature restaurant and an indoor pool. This location is very close to many entertainment venues.
The Revery Toronto Downtown, Curio Collection
I was proud of this find which was cheaper than many hotels during TIFF and totally brand new inside. The old Garden Inn on Peter Street was made over a few months ago by Hilton into a wonderful boutique hotel. If you like a modern look and feel, this is the place for you. Everything was fresh and new in my room which was compact but had all kinds of perks such as light switches with dimmers, a huge lit mirror and powerful shower. The front desk clerk went above and beyond one night when I wanted something to calm my cold and everything was closed. She went and made me a hot tea with milk and brought it up on her own–this wasn’t part of room service. I offered her a tip and she declined.
Another plus is their signature French restaurant, the Deauville Club, which exudes comfort and relaxation. My brunch of delicious Eggs Royale, while savouring the beautiful atmosphere provided the oasis that I needed during the hectic film fest.
TOP TIFF PICKS
It is presently November and most of these films listed below are hitting your local movie theatre or streaming app as you read this. So even if you missed TIFF, you can see some of the best films right now.
Here are my top seven TIFF films.
Anora
Just from the vibrant trailer, I could see this film would be a wild ride and it was! Cannes Palme D’or Award winner, Anora is a mesmerizing trip through the seedier side of Brooklyn contrasted with the upscale lifestyle of the rich and powerful . A feisty young woman, who pays the rent by stripping, is asked to give a lap dance to the young and spoiled son of a Russian Oligarch because she speaks Russian. Part fairy tale, part romp—there are also serious questions about morality, lifestyle and the true nature of love. The film has just been released and is winning more awards. Keep an eye on newcomer Mikey Madison. She shines in every scene.
Conclave
How I love an old fashioned papal “who done it”. This film kept my attention from start to finish with its wonderful actors, beautiful music and diabolical plot twists. Cardinals played by Ralph Fiennes, Stanley Tucci and John Lithgow strategize and plot after the sudden death of the Pope. Papal succession has historically been decided by an elaborate Conclave, with as many votes as are necessary, until there is a clear winner. All of this occurs under the silent but watchful eyes of a nun, played by Isabella Rosellini. The soaring score by composer, Volker Bertelmann, enlivens the film. Kudos to director, Edward Berger, for airing out the cattiness and surprising vanity of the players in such a satisfying way.
Saturday Night
If you are a Saturday Night Live fan, and especially a follower of the early years, this film is for you!
I was lucky enough to be at the premiere at the Royal Alex and as I was wandering to my seat, I realized that the people whom I was pushing past were the stars of the film! I bumped into the very tall Nicholas Braun of Succession fame. In the very next row was J.K. Simmons (star of Whiplash) and next to him, Willem Dafoe. I loved that the entire cast sat in the audience like the modest ensemble that they were and enjoyed the film with us.
Director, Jason Reitman, grew up around some of the early stars of SNL such as Dan Aykroyd and Chevy Chase, who were friends of his famous father, director Ivan Reitman. Watching Reitman and his large cast on stage, discussing the ins and outs of making this unique film was heartwarming–the old pros stood next to the new talent and everyone supported each other.
The casting was spot on—the looks, the voices, the quirks are all there. But it all started with Canadian, Loren Michaels, who put together this idea of a live skit show in the mid-70’s and has been at its helm ever since. Reitman surprised me by casting Canadian, Gabriel LaBelle, of The Fableman’s in this pivotal role and the young actor pulls it off! It is charming to see Lamorne Morris playing the role of his father Garrett Morris, who was in the first cast of SNL. Matt Wood looks uncannily like John Belushi, whose antics almost ended the show before it began.
Expect a frenetic pace in real time as the film takes us through an era when the old staid programming gave way to a risky new approach to late evening entertainment. There is no better time for this film about the very first show to come out than in SNL’s 50th year.
We Live in Time
One of my very favorite films at TIFF this year, I was engrossed from beginning to end. I have to say the leads, Florence Pugh and Andrew Garfield, were completely committed to their roles and gave great nuanced performances. They were funny, emotional and worked so well together that the material soared. The Q &A after the film was a love fest between Pugh and Garfield, with their director, John Crowley. The actors were literally crying while discussing how meaningful and fulfilling the experience was for all involved. Also–although the story is familiar, the non-linear structure of the film made it much more interesting. Watch out for the scene in a gas station bathroom to take your breath away.
Heretic
I saw Hugh Grant at a live Podcast taping, and he discussed his latest foray into horror and thriller films. If you are a fan of his romantic comedies such as Notting Hill and Four Weddings and a Funeral, this film showcases his ability to play characters with depth and evil inclinations. Yet he still somehow retains that Hugh Grant charm! He expressed that he was not happy with being typecast as a hapless romantic, a persona which spilled over into his personal interviews at the time. He has aged well, and I am sure he has many more riveting films ahead. The scares are played out against a background of debate on religion, morality and truth. Heretic is a must watch. Grant being evil with that underlying hint of self-deprecating humour is such an enjoyable experience.
Nutcrackers
Nutcrackers had the coveted opening Gala Spot at TIFF this year. It took me a while to get into it, as it just seemed like a typical fish out of water story. Uncle Michael, played by Ben Stiller, must take care of his orphaned nephews on an old farm in the middle of nowhere. But as the film went on–I noticed that these four boys with their long flowing hair and nutty antics–did not seem like typical actors. They truly looked alike as well. Sure enough, I learned that the film was inspired by these “Ballet-Dancing Farm Kids”, so instead of hiring actors– Producer Ben Stiller and Director David Gordon Green, used the actual brothers in the movie. Just when you think you have this one pegged it changes. What starts as a comedy turns into a heartfelt drama with some surprises along the way. This one is slated to come out on Disney and Hulu at the end of November.
Will and Harper
You can catch this film streaming on Netflix right now and this documentary is well worth your time. Will Ferrell is behind Will and Harper: an ode to friendship, life’s journeys and living your truth. Will and old friend Harper Steele (formerly Andrew, head writer for SNL) travel across the USA in an old station wagon, in an effort to adjust to this new phase in their friendship–after Steele comes out as Trans to Ferrell. This is a brave enterprise, with a lot of emotional scenes between the two, interspersed with their banter and the experiences that they have on the road. A moving honest film that inspires us to realize how important self acceptance is.
Photo Credits: TIFF.Net