The fall film festival circuit commenced last week with the 80th Venice International Film Festival and the 50th Telluride Film Festival setting the stage for a unique season. However, as Hollywood grapples with ongoing strikes involving the Writers Guild of America and the Screen Actors Guild (SAG), the star-studded glamour typically associated with these events has noticeably dimmed.
In both Venice and Telluride, the absence of prominent actors was conspicuous, despite some notable exceptions, like Adam Driver from “Ferrari” and Cailee Spaeny and Jacob Elordi from “Priscilla,” who graced the red carpet thanks to SAG-AFTRA’s interim agreements. Bradley Cooper, the star of “Maestro,” was among those who chose not to attend in a show of solidarity with their unions.
Now, all eyes turn to the 48th Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), scheduled to begin on September 7. Historically renowned for its star-studded lineups, TIFF faces a challenge due to the absence of many A-list actors and the delay of major releases like “Challengers” and “Dune: Part Two” to the following year. This year’s TIFF is crucial, as it will set the tone for the months ahead.
Yahoo Entertainment will provide comprehensive coverage of this distinctive edition of the festival, addressing key questions about what lies ahead and why it matters.
Will Any Movie Stars Attend?
With SAG currently on strike, the usual “Hollywood descends on Toronto” atmosphere will be notably absent. Nevertheless, a few celebrities are expected to make appearances. Independent distributors such as A24 and Neon have quietly reached interim agreements with SAG-AFTRA, allowing some actors to attend TIFF. Notable attendees are anticipated to include Nicolas Cage (“Dream Scenario”), Sean Penn and Dakota Johnson (“Daddio”), Finn Wolfhard (“Hell of a Summer”), Viggo Mortensen (“The Dead Don’t Hurt”), and Maya Hawke and Laura Linney (“Wildcat”).
It’s worth noting that some of these actors are also involved in filmmaking; for example, Dakota Johnson is a producer on “Daddio,” Finn Wolfhard is a co-director of “Hell of a Summer,” and Viggo Mortensen directed “The Dead Don’t Hurt.” However, a long list of celebrities who won’t be present includes Chris Pine, Anna Kendrick, Al Pacino, Robert De Niro, Cate Blanchett, Olivia Colman, Jessie Buckley, and Annette Bening.
The absence of such star power is a significant departure for TIFF, which usually thrives on star-studded red carpet events. This situation could potentially impact the visibility and promotion of the films premiering at the festival, as stars often generate buzz on social media with quotes and fashion moments during TIFF.
Which World Premieres Will Shine Without Stars?
Several highly-anticipated films are set to have their world premieres at TIFF without the presence of their star-studded casts. One such film is “Dumb Money,” directed by Craig Gillespie, which explores the Gamestop stock rally of 2021 and features notable actors such as Pete Davidson, Seth Rogen, Shailene Woodley, and America Ferrera. Despite the absence of these actors, “Dumb Money” is expected to draw significant attention and may follow in the footsteps of “The Big Short,” which received five Oscar nominations, including Best Picture, after premiering at TIFF.
Other high-profile movies with strong star power that will be unveiled at TIFF include Kate Winslet’s “Lee,” featuring Andy Samberg in a dramatic role, Chris Evans and Emily Blunt in “Pain Hustlers,” and Jamie Foxx in “The Burial.” Additionally, Benicio Del Toro stars in Netflix’s “Reptile,” and Elliot Page takes the lead in “Close to You.”
On the documentary front, TIFF will showcase “Sorry/Not Sorry,” a film investigating allegations against Louis C.K., and “Silver Dollar Road,” directed by Raoul Peck, which examines a Black family’s struggle to retain their North Carolina property. “Swan Song,” produced by Neve Campbell, provides a behind-the-scenes look at the National Ballet of Canada’s post-Covid production of “Swan Lake.”
Which Oscar Contenders Will Emerge or Gain Momentum?
Venice and Telluride have already witnessed the emergence of potential Oscar contenders, including “Ferrari,” “Maestro,” and “Priscilla.” TIFF is expected to contribute to the awards race with films like “Next Goal Wins,” directed by Taika Waititi, which focuses on the American Samoan soccer team’s quest for the World Cup. Waititi’s previous film, “Jojo Rabbit,” received six Oscar nominations, including a win for Best Adapted Screenplay, following its TIFF premiere.
Other awards contenders include “American Fiction,” featuring Jeffrey Wright, “The Boy and the Heron” by Hayao Miyazaki, “The Zone of Interest” by Jonathan Glazer, “The Holdovers,” and “Rustin,” starring Colman Domingo.
As the film industry navigates a unique festival season amid strikes and star absences, TIFF remains a crucial platform for introducing and promoting films that could shape the upcoming awards season.
