Highlights from the Toronto International Film Festival

The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) marks its arrival as summer ends and fall movie season begins. This annual event showcases films from around the globe, many poised for awards recognition. During my visit to the festival, I watched 25 films, and several stood out as exceptional.

All That She Wants

Annie Murphy, known for her role as Alexis on “Schitt’s Creek,” shines as a rom-com lead in “All That She Wants.” Murphy plays Emma, a woman in her 30s who is newly single, at a career crossroads, and eager to become a mom. She meets Luke, a charming grad student a decade younger, portrayed by Cooper Raiff. Their chemistry is delightful, making for a feel-good watch akin to classics like “When Harry Met Sally.” The film features Christine Baranski, Bill Irwin, and Zosia Mamet as Emma’s family. As yet, “All That She Wants” lacks a distributor.

Babies

“Babies” features Annie, played by Anna Kendrick, and Aaron, portrayed by Seth Rogen, as a longtime couple facing the decision of whether to become parents. Set amidst friends who have made their choices, the film explores the growing pressure on Annie and Aaron. Writer-director Lauren Miller Rogen delivers humor and warmth, with the couple’s chemistry drawing from their real-life bond. The supporting cast includes Issa Rae, Zach Cherry, Kate Berlant, and David Strathairn, all contributing depth to the narrative. “Babies” has a distributor and is set for release in 2027.

Clarissa

Arie and Chuko Esiri adapt Virginia Woolf’s “Mrs. Dalloway” into “Clarissa,” a film set in contemporary Lagos, Nigeria. Sophie Okonedo stars as Clarissa, a socialite whose past resurfaces during her party planning. The film explores Lagos’s social and economic complexities through flashbacks and interconnected tales. Toheeb Jimoh and David Oyelowo portray Peter, while Ayo Edebiri and Nikki Amuka-Bird play Sally, capturing the film’s emotional layers. “Clarissa” will premiere in theaters on December 11.

The Debut

Jesse Eisenberg’s “The Debut” contrasts with his previous work, venturing into surrealist comedy. Julianne Moore stars as Mona, a bored housewife cast in a community theater production by Jerry, played by Paul Giamatti. The film explores self-discovery through theater, filled with eccentric local charm. Moore’s performance stands out, making “The Debut” a unique cinematic experience.

Everytime

Sandra Wollner’s “Everytime” delves into grief, featuring Birgit Minichmayr, Lotte Shirin Keiling, and Tristán López as characters coping with tragedy. The narrative follows a teenager’s death and its impact on her family and boyfriend. “Everytime” presents a meditative journey through their emotions, selected as Germany’s entry for the Oscars international feature race but lacks a U.S. release date.

The Face of Horror

Using “Yotsuya Kaidan” as inspiration, Anna Biller’s “The Face of Horror” critiques patriarchy with flair, blending traditional horror style and modern commentary. Jonah Hauer-King plays a medieval knight whose actions affect his wife, Kristine Frøseth. The film offers a lively mix of gore and insight, enjoyed at TIFF’s Midnight Madness section. It currently awaits U.S. distribution.

Look Back

Hirokazu Kore-eda adapts Tatsuki Fujimoto’s manga “Look Back” into a live-action feature focused on friendship and creativity. It tells the story of Fujino and Kyomoto, schoolgirls whose shared love for manga leads to professional success. The narrative captures their emotional evolution through performances by Furi Nanase, Rokka Okada, Natsuki Deguchi, and Aju Makita, depicting artistic passion and personal growth.

Tender Loving Care

“Tender Loving Care,” potentially Mike Leigh’s final film, presents a poignant tale centered on Amy, a social worker played by Kate O’Flynn. Following a breakup, Amy moves in with Rosie, depicted by Alice Bailey Johnson. The film highlights simple yet profound conversations about life and emotions, featuring Amy’s parents, enacted by Paul Jesson and Marion Bailey. “Tender Loving Care” highlights Leigh’s mastery of authentic storytelling.

These films reflect the diversity and creativity that define TIFF. They offer compelling stories, rich performances, and distinctive cinematic experiences.