9 Must-See Movies From the Toronto International Film Festival

The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), held from September 7 to 17 this year, brought forth a diverse array of films, many of which garnered praise. While some movies left audiences with mixed feelings, there were hidden gems that tackled intricate human stories, defied conventional genres, and left a lasting impact. In this list, we highlight nine outstanding films from TIFF that deserve recognition.

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1. “The Teachers’ Lounge”

Directed by Ilker Çatak, “The Teachers’ Lounge” takes an unexpected setting—a school’s teachers’ lounge—and turns it into a tense and gripping drama. The film follows a white teacher, portrayed brilliantly by Leonie Benesch, who faces a moral dilemma when a Muslim student is accused of theft. The story delves into themes of race and class, depicting a woman willing to go to questionable lengths to prove the child’s innocence and her commitment to being an ally. “The Teachers’ Lounge” is a thought-provoking character study that explores the battles individuals choose to fight.

2. “Anatomy of a Fall”

French writer-director Justine Triet crafts a suspenseful and nuanced drama in “Anatomy of a Fall.” This two-and-a-half-hour film challenges the typical whodunit formula by focusing on the life and home of the deceased Samuel. Through vivid flashbacks and meticulous courtroom scenes, the movie unravels the complexities of his relationships, particularly with his wife Sandra, portrayed brilliantly by Sandra Hüller. “Anatomy of a Fall” offers a riveting exploration of human imperfections and the intricacies of marriage.

3. “Fitting In”

Director Molly McGlynn’s “Fitting In” introduces her as a fresh voice for today’s generation. The film follows Lindy, a high schooler played by Maddie Ziegler, who receives an unusual diagnosis affecting her reproductive health. Lindy’s journey to navigate this newfound reality strains her relationships, especially with her mother Rita, portrayed by Emily Hampshire. “Fitting In” provides a candid portrayal of gender and sexual identity, offering humor and engagement as it explores the life of a teenage girl redefining her normalcy.

4. “Sleep”

Korean director Jason Yu takes viewers on a haunting and eerie journey in “Sleep.” The film revolves around Hyun-su and his pregnant wife Soo-jin, who experience a growing sense of dread as Hyun-su begins sleepwalking. His behavior becomes increasingly disturbing, including cravings for raw meat and self-harming tendencies. Set within the confines of their apartment, “Sleep” grips the audience with an unsettling atmosphere and an unrelenting sense of malevolence. It showcases that a solid story and effective use of effects can create a captivating horror film.

5. “We Grown Now”

Director Minhal Baig captures the innocence and curiosity of two 10-year-old Black boys living in Chicago’s Cabrini-Green housing project in the ’90s. Through the portrayals of Blake Cameron James and Gian Knight Ramirez, “We Grown Now” offers a heartwarming journey into childhood perspectives. It paints a vivid picture of a neighborhood filled with promise and despair, seen through the eyes of children. “We Grown Now” provides a heartwarming glimpse of home through a child’s perspective.

6. “Concrete Utopia”

Director Tae-hwa Eom explores social degradation following a major earthquake in Seoul in “Concrete Utopia.” This emotionally and physically intense film delves into individual and collective stories of rebuilding a flawed community divided by socioeconomic disparities. Eom skillfully navigates these narratives, creating a profoundly human experience that addresses class struggle and societal divides. “Concrete Utopia” is a poignant reflection on the human condition.

7. “Solo”

“Solo,” directed by Sophie Dupuis, tells the story of Simon, a rising drag star whose life takes a tumultuous turn when he enters a toxic relationship with Olivier. Dupuis avoids the pitfalls of focusing solely on the toxic romance, instead offering a nuanced narrative about a man juggling his affirming drag persona with the challenges of an increasingly manipulative partner. Théodore Pellerin delivers a tender performance, and Dupuis balances dazzling drag performances with poignant moments, creating a beautiful portrayal of the human spirit.

8. “His Three Daughters”

Azazel Jacobs’ “His Three Daughters” explores the memories we reshape in our minds, especially in times of impending loss. The film revolves around three sisters reuniting as their father faces death. Through powerful performances by Carrie Coon, Elizabeth Olsen, and Natasha Lyonne, the movie dismantles their sibling dynamic and confronts the bittersweet memories they share. The final 15 minutes of the film are particularly impactful, delivering a profound emotional punch. “His Three Daughters” is a special and moving cinematic experience.

9. “Dream Scenario”

“Dream Scenario” reminds audiences of Nicolas Cage’s talent when paired with great filmmakers. Directed by Kristoffer Borgli, this film delves into the hysteria of cancel culture in our social landscape. Cage portrays a professor whose image starts infiltrating people’s dreams and nightmares, leading to his ostracization. Borgli skillfully combines dark humor with social commentary, creating a thought-provoking and entertaining exploration of our times.

These nine films from the Toronto International Film Festival showcase the diversity and depth of storytelling in contemporary cinema. Each film offers a unique perspective and memorable performances, making them worth seeking out for cinephiles and casual moviegoers alike.