Top 5 Films to Watch at the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival
The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) is one of the premier platforms for launching Oscar-worthy films, and this year’s lineup doesn’t disappoint. The 2024 festival features a wide variety of films, from gripping dramas and horror flicks to an unexpected biopic about Donald Trump. With a host of famous actors, directors, and artists attending, including Jennifer Lopez, Bruce Springsteen, and Pamela Anderson, the festival offers something for everyone.
Here’s a rundown of the top five films making waves at TIFF 2024.
5. ‘The Luckiest Man in America’
This film offers a fascinating look at the life of a real-life 1980s game show contestant who finds himself at the center of a scandal. Paul Walter Hauser, known for his roles in “I, Tonya” and “Richard Jewell”, plays the awkward yet determined protagonist who manages to cheat his way to an epic run on the game show “Press Your Luck.” The performance is filled with humor, tension, and charisma, as Hauser’s character disrupts the show in a way that no one saw coming.
Supporting actors like David Strathairn and Walton Goggins enhance the narrative, adding depth to a film that blends comedy with drama. If you enjoy stories where characters stumble into chaos, this film will not disappoint.
4. ‘The Cut’
In “The Cut,” Orlando Bloom delivers a gritty performance as an Irish boxer nicknamed the “Wolf of Dublin.” Once a rising star, his career takes a downward spiral after missing his chance at glory. The film follows his attempt at redemption, with a powerful narrative that delves into themes of mental health and body image struggles.
The dynamic between Bloom’s character and his trainer (played by Caitriona Balfe) fuels the emotional core of the story. A standout performance by John Turturro as a no-nonsense coach who helps the boxer lose weight adds another layer of complexity. The film blends sports drama with psychological horror, resulting in a thought-provoking and intense experience.
3. ‘Bird’
A coming-of-age story with a dark twist, “Bird” is a tale about Bailey, a 12-year-old girl trying to navigate a tumultuous family life. Directed by Andrea Arnold, this film mixes gritty realism with elements of fantasy, as Bailey (played by Nykiya Adams) befriends a mysterious figure named Bird. The narrative focuses on the girl’s inner world as she deals with parental neglect and the looming presence of her chaotic father, played by Barry Keoghan.
Arnold’s visual style brings the story to life, using nature as a metaphor for freedom and growth. Bailey’s journey into adulthood is both poignant and heart-wrenching, capturing the complexities of adolescence.
2. ‘The Apprentice’
This Donald Trump biopic follows the former president’s rise in the 1970s and ’80s, focusing on his formative years working for his father’s real estate company. Sebastian Stan stars as a young Trump, while Jeremy Strong portrays the infamous lawyer Roy Cohn, whose ruthless mentorship helps shape Trump into the figure the world knows today.
The film explores themes of ambition, power, and morality, tracking Trump’s evolution under Cohn’s influence. Stan and Strong deliver compelling performances, elevating a biopic that examines Trump’s transformation from an ambitious businessman to a controversial public figure. With its sharp dialogue and insightful character arcs, “The Apprentice” is a must-watch at this year’s TIFF.
1. ‘The Substance’
The most talked-about film at TIFF 2024, “The Substance” is a disturbing, darkly comedic body horror film starring Demi Moore as a TV fitness celebrity obsessed with reclaiming her youthful beauty. Directed by Coralie Fargeat, the film dives into themes of vanity, beauty, and self-worth, while presenting an outrageously grotesque narrative that will leave viewers both shocked and entertained.
In the film, Moore’s character undergoes a radical process to restore her physical appearance, only to birth a younger version of herself, played by Margaret Qualley. The movie is a visual feast, full of surreal imagery and satirical commentary on the beauty industry. Moore’s performance is nothing short of captivating, marking her return to the big screen in a role that is both bonkers and brilliant.
Conclusion
The 2024 Toronto International Film Festival continues its tradition of showcasing bold, innovative films that push boundaries. Whether it’s the gripping sports drama of “The Cut,” the satirical horror of “The Substance,” or the real-life intrigue of “The Apprentice,” TIFF 2024 offers a diverse slate of films that are sure to make waves throughout awards season. Keep an eye on these top picks, as they could be contenders for Oscars and other prestigious awards in the coming months.
FAQs:
1. When does the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival take place?
TIFF 2024 runs from September 7 to September 15, 2024, showcasing a variety of films from around the world.
2. What is ‘The Apprentice’ about?
“The Apprentice” is a biopic focused on Donald Trump’s rise in the real estate industry in the 1970s and ’80s, highlighting his relationship with mentor Roy Cohn.
3. Which films at TIFF 2024 are expected to be Oscar contenders?
Films like “The Cut,” “The Substance,” and “The Apprentice” have generated significant buzz and could be in the running for Oscar nominations.
4. Who stars in ‘The Substance’?
Demi Moore and Margaret Qualley star in “The Substance,” a darkly comedic body horror film exploring themes of beauty and vanity.
5. What is the most anticipated film at TIFF 2024?
“The Substance” has quickly become one of the most talked-about films at the festival, thanks to its unique premise and bold performances from Demi Moore and Margaret Qualley.
