The Movies to Look for Through the End of the Year
The best new films coming this season take a close look at humanity.
The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) showcased a diverse array of films in its 51-year history. In 2026, the festival featured a mix of emerging and established filmmakers, including a Nigerian-set remake of Mrs. Dalloway, a coming-of-age drama about a school trip to Pompeii, and a comedy about a community theater group staging a musical.
Among the standout films, "Your Mother" is now in theaters, starring Oscar winner Mahershala Ali as a hitman grappling with faith and family. The stylish thriller balances intense fight sequences with intimate character study.
"Fjord," directed by Cristian Mungiu, follows a Romanian patriarch who moves his family to Norway, leading to cultural clashes and moral dilemmas. The film won the Palme d'Or at Cannes and explores responsibility and the consequences of good intentions.
"La bola negra" won the People's Choice Award at TIFF, a technical marvel that weaves together stories of three gay men across different time periods. The film delves into the cost of burying one's desires and showcases beautifully composed set pieces.
"The Only Living Pickpocket in New York," inspired by a Simon & Garfunkel song, is a charming indie film about an aging criminal struggling to adapt to modern times. John Turturro delivers a nuanced performance as Harry, who becomes entangled in a dangerous quest to retrieve a stolen USB drive.
"Possible Love," directed by Lee Chang-dong, is another masterclass in exactitude. The film follows two couples, including a documentarian who aims to make a movie about laid-off workers. The complex narrative explores jealousy, resentment, and lust through subtle glances and sharp dialogue.
"Wild Horse Nine," a dark comedy by Martin McDonagh, features John Malkovich and Sam Rockwell as CIA operatives vacationing on Easter Island after a controversial mission. The film examines redemption and the consequences of a lifetime of terrible deeds.
"Being Heumann," directed by Siân Heder, is a biopic about disability-rights activist Judy Heumann's achievements in the 1970s. The film highlights her efforts to improve accessibility and special education, portraying underdog triumphs through performances by disabled, unknown actors.
Written by urgent.news from The Atlantic's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
