Toronto International Film Festival opens with major premieres and Oscar hopefuls in a star‑studded lineup

The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) commenced on September 10, welcoming over 200 films and a host of high-profile celebrities. These include Oscar nominees John Malkovich, Penelope Cruz, Chris Rock, and K-pop sensation Lisa. Similar to previous editions, TIFF draws countless attendees for premieres and glamorous red-carpet events.

This year’s festival marks its 51st edition, focusing on underdog stories. Among the highlights is "I Play Rocky," a world premiere directed by Oscar-winning Peter Farrelly. The movie follows Sylvester Stallone, portrayed by Anthony Ippolito, as he battles Hollywood to bring his own life-changing film to the screen. Opening night sees the premiere of "Being Heumann," a biographical drama directed by Sian Heder, which highlights the activist Judy Heumann’s fight for disability rights. Ruth Madeley stars as Heumann, alongside Mark Ruffalo.

Another biopic debuting at TIFF is "Villeneuve: The Rise of a Legend," chronicling Canadian racing star Gilles Villeneuve's rise from humble roots to Formula 1 stardom. Chris Rock returns as writer-director for "Misty Green," starring Rosalind Eleazar, Daniel Kaluuya, Adam Driver, Anna Kendrick, and Chris Rock himself.

"Wild Horse Nine" revolves around CIA agents in Chile during the turbulent final days of Salvador Allende’s presidency, directed by Martin McDonagh. Returning from previous festivals are "Elsinore" (Andrew Scott and Olivia Colman) and the musical comedy "The Debut" (Jesse Eisenberg). British star Helen Mirren arrives for the world premiere of "A Talent for Murder," playing author Patricia Highsmith under pressure from her agent.

Directed by Zack Snyder, "The Last Photograph" is an action-drama starring Stuart Martin and Fra Fee. The film follows a former DEA agent in the South American jungle on a mission to find two missing nephews. From Venice, TIFF hosts "Bunker," a psychological thriller featuring Javier Bardem and Penelope Cruz, and Werner Herzog's "Bucking Fastard." Documentarian Lisa debuts "Always Lalisa," showcasing her solo career and acting debut in "The White Lotus." TIFF continues until September 20.