by Tim Gordon
The Toronto International Film Festival is turning 50 and it’s doing so in grand, global fashion.
TIFF has unveiled an exciting wave of 11 new titles set to premiere as part of its Gala and Special Presentations programmes, further solidifying its reputation as one of the most diverse and prestigious showcases for international cinema. With selections from celebrated auteurs and rising global talents, these additions exemplify the Festival’s mission to spotlight excellence, originality, and boundary-pushing storytelling from around the world.
Among the most anticipated entries is Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery, marking Rian Johnson’s return to TIFF with the latest chapter in his popular whodunit series. Also generating buzz is Hamnet, Chloé Zhao’s adaptation of Maggie O’Farrell’s bestselling novel, a Shakespearean tale reimagined through the lens of one of today’s most visionary filmmakers.
The Galas spotlight high-profile, red carpet-ready titles, including Nicholas Hytner’s The Choral (World Premiere), Neeraj Ghaywan’s Homebound (North American Premiere), and Rebecca Zlotowski’s A Private Life (North American Premiere). Derek Cianfrance (Blue Valentine) returns with Roofman, while Peter Ho-Sun Chan brings She Has No Name, a powerful story from China making its North American debut.
The Special Presentations section continues TIFF’s tradition of bold, globally resonant cinema. Highlights include Agnieszka Holland’s Franz (World Premiere), Paul Greengrass’ The Lost Bus (World Premiere), HIKARI’s Rental Family (World Premiere), and Clement Virgo’s Steal Away, a sweeping Canadian-Belgian co-production exploring themes of liberation and identity.
“This year’s lineup reflects the spirit of TIFF: bold, diverse, and globally connected,” says Anita Lee, Chief Programming Officer at TIFF. “These 11 films showcase the remarkable originality and excellence of today’s most acclaimed and exciting filmmakers.”
As TIFF prepares to celebrate its landmark 50th edition from September 4–14, 2025, anticipation is already building for what promises to be a landmark year. The full Festival schedule will be released on Tuesday, August 12, at tiff.net.
As the countdown to TIFF 2025 continues, one thing is clear: the world will be watching — and TIFF is ready to take center stage.
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