Though not all of the films have been announced for the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), those which have been are causing a buzz. Among them, the New York Times notes directorial efforts by Robert Redford and other veteran actors.
TIFF films include offerings like Jack Goes Boating, directed by and starring Philip Seymour Hoffman. Set in New York, the story follows the romantic trials of two couples. David Schwimmer, formerly Ross on Friends, has almost completely disappeared from the screen (though he did voice work for the Madagascar films, portraying Melman the hypochondriac giraffe). Schwimmer seems to prefer the stage these days, though he is also making a name for himself as a director. Credits include episodes of Joey, Friends and Little Britain U.S.A. His latest film sees him tackle the very modern and frightening issue of on-line sexual predation. Clive Owen and Catherine Keener provide high profile leads in Trust.
Redford’s work tackles an historical subject: the assassination of Abraham Lincoln. With his Hollywood clout, it is no wonder he was able to snag some of the hottest and most talented actors around such as Kevin Kline, James McAvoy, Robin Wright, Evan Rachel Wood and Tom Wilkinson. The Conspirator deals with lawyer McAvoy, persuaded to defend the assassin’s mother (Wright) who refuses to reveal his whereabouts.
Following an Oscar nominated role in A Single Man, Colin Firth plays King George the VI of England in The King’s Speech, directed by Tom Hooper. Speech explores the King’s challenges with a speech impediment and the efforts of speech therapist Lionel Logue to help him. Though historical drama and screen renditions of literature (Valmont, Pride and Prejudice, The Importance of being Earnest), he also turned up in the very modern, very funny Mama Mia with Meryl Streep and Pierce Brosnan.
Last year, Coco Chanel was showcased on the big screen. This year, learn more about Yves Saint Laurent in L’Amour Fou, directed by Pierre Thoretton.
Woody Allen directs a comic film about, what else, struggling relationships. You Will Meet a Tall Dark Stranger takes place in London.
Not all films will sport names the average North American film lover will recognize. Selections com from across the globe. Catch stories told by directors from Algeria, Portugal, France, Israel, Hong Kong, and even Chad. They cover themes from war and history; romance, sex and murder.
The Toronto International Film Festival runs September 9th two 19th, but you can catch these films coming to a theatre near you soon.
Comment and add to the story without registration, but keep the comments meaningful please. Links are not accepted.
