The 42nd Toronto International Film Festival, which took place this week and finishes Sunday, attracted the brightest stars, featured the most talented filmmakers and rolled out the red carpet to feature 11 days of world and regional premieres and festival darlings.
Tens of thousands of patrons attended this festival, which screens hundreds of films from all over the world. The Daily Journal was a part of the action, discovering new films that will be in theaters very soon for you to see. Check out the best of the fest, and be the first to know what just might be the next Oscar-winning film.
TOP TIER
“Molly’s Game”
After a sport-ending injury, a former Olympic mogul skier inadvertently falls into a career of running a high-stakes gambling game. When Molly Bloom (Jessica Chastain) is accused of illegal operations and associations with the Russian mob, she must find a lawyer who is squeaky clean but willing to defend her. Opens: Nov. 22.
“Breathe”
Another first-time director, Andy Serkis (who, incidentally, played Gollum in the “Lord of the Rings” trilogy), brings the true story of Robin and Diana Cavendish, disability advocates, to life. Devastated physically and emotionally from contracting polio, Robin wants nothing more than to die, but his wife won’t let him. Together and with the help of friends, they reinvent life for not just their family, but for all who are severely physically disabled. It’s a beautiful, uplifting and life-affirming film with outstanding and heartfelt performances. Opens: Oct. 13
“Brad’s Status”
Mike White (“Enlightened,” “Beatriz at Dinner” and “School of Rock”) writes and directs one of the most poignant relationship films in decades. Starring Ben Stiller and Austin Abrams as father and son, the two take a trek from California to Massachusetts to tour prestigious universities. Filled with daydreams of what could have or would have been, this exceptionally powerful and entertaining film is a raw and honest look into what we all think but would never admit.
A few other top picks to look for: “3 Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri,” “The Shape of Water,” “Victoria & Abdul” and “Mudbound.”
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