TIFF 2023 Highlights: Five Must-See Toronto-Centric Films

UPDATE: The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) is underway, showcasing a vibrant lineup of films that spotlight the very city of Toronto and its rich cinematic talent. With the festival running until September 17, 2023, film enthusiasts are eager to discover local stories that resonate on a global scale.

Among the standout films making waves this year is Nirvanna the Band the Show the Movie, directed by Matt Johnson. This feature takes audiences on a nostalgic journey through Toronto’s past, following Johnson and co-star Jay McCarrol as they navigate the challenges of booking a gig at the iconic venue, The Rivoli. The film combines humor with a unique time-travel twist, promising an engaging experience for both fans of the original web series and new viewers alike.

Another poignant highlight is John Candy: I Like Me, directed by Colin Hanks. Released over three decades after the beloved actor’s passing in 1994, this documentary offers a heartfelt tribute to Candy’s legacy. Featuring interviews with his family and friends, including stars like Steve Martin and TOM Hanks, this film reminds viewers of Candy’s incredible impact on Canadian and global cinema. Produced by Ryan Reynolds, it’s a must-see for those who cherish Canadian comedy.

Fans of the iconic teen drama can celebrate the legacy of Degrassi in Degrassi: Whatever It Takes, directed by Lisa Rideout. This film delves into the show’s cultural impact through the eyes of its stars, including Drake, and the devoted viewers who grew up with it. Through personal reflections and behind-the-scenes anecdotes, it sheds light on how Degrassi shaped a generation.

In a poignant exploration of community, 100 Sunset by Canadian director Kunsang Kyirong focuses on the bond between two young women in a Parkdale apartment complex. The film addresses the challenges faced by Tibetan immigrants in Toronto, weaving a narrative filled with intrigue, desire, and deceit that reflects the diverse experiences within the city.

Lastly, Dinner with Friends, directed by Sasha Leigh Henry, captures the essence of friendship and nostalgia. This film follows a group of eight lifelong friends as they gather for dinner parties, navigating old tensions and cherished memories. It offers a relatable and heartfelt look at the complexities of relationships in urban life.

As TIFF continues to draw attention, other notable films include the provocative erotic thriller Steal Away from Clement Virgo and the genre-bending Honey Bunch, directed by Dusty Mancinelli and Madeleine Sims-Fewer. Additionally, Little Lorraine, featuring Toronto’s own Stephen Amell, tells the gripping story of a small town caught in the web of an international drug smuggling ring.

With so much local talent on display, TIFF 2023 is not just a festival; it’s a celebration of Toronto’s rich cultural tapestry. Film enthusiasts and casual viewers alike are urged to immerse themselves in these captivating stories that reflect the city’s diverse and vibrant spirit.

For a complete list of Canadian films featured at TIFF, click here. Don’t miss the chance to witness these transformative stories that continue to shape Toronto’s cinematic landscape.