39 Films from the Toronto International Film Festival
39 titles
- 1
Silver Linings PlaybookMovie · 2012 · 122m · Drama, Comedy, RomanceFollowing a job loss, divorce, and a period of institutionalization, a former teacher returns home to live with his parents. He's determined to rebuild his life and win back his wife, but his father's enthusiasm for the Philadelphia Eagles presents a challenge. His plans become complicated when he meets Tiffany Maxwell, who offers assistance in reconnecting with his wife – for a significant favor.Stream onIMDb 7.7TMDB 7.1
- 2
American BeautyMovie · 1999 · 122m · DramaLester Burnham, a middle-aged advertising executive, lives a dull life in a picture-perfect suburb. Feeling trapped and depressed, he unexpectedly becomes drawn to Angela, the friend of his daughter. This attraction sparks a renewed zest for life in Lester, leading him to make significant changes in his relationships and question his long-held beliefs. The film explores self-discovery, personal growth, and family dynamics through both funny and moving moments, all set against a backdrop of superficiality.Stream onIMDb 8.3TMDB 8.0
- 3
The Big ChillMovie · 1983 · 105m · Comedy, DramaA group of old college friends reunite to remember a lost friend. The film shows how their lives have changed since university, exploring the differences that have grown between them as they come together to honor him and reconnect. Through moments of laughter and sadness, the story examines friendship, facing mortality, and how people evolve while still holding onto deep bonds with those they've known for years.Stream onIMDb 7.1TMDB 6.9
- 4
Crouching Tiger, Hidden DragonMovie · 2000 · 120m · Adventure, Drama, ActionTwo warriors hunting a stolen sword and a dangerous escapee find themselves guided to the daughter of a headstrong, athletic teenage nobleman who is facing a pivotal moment in her life.Stream onIMDb 7.8TMDB 7.4
- 5
Where Do We Go Now?Movie · 2011 · 110m · Drama, ComedyIn a secluded Lebanese village, Muslims and Christians coexist peacefully despite being surrounded by landmines. As civil war erupts in the wider country, the women of the village attempt to shield their husbands from the escalating conflict. They do this by secretly disabling the village radio and then destroying the television. Their efforts to keep the men uninformed are met with mixed results.Stream onIMDb 7.4TMDB 7.4
- 6
Cyrano de BergeracMovie · 1990 · 137m · Drama, Comedy, HistoryCyrano de Bergerac is a story about a celebrated swordsman and poet whose confidence is hurt by his prominent nose, making it difficult for him to express his feelings for his cousin Roxane. Unable to confess his love directly, Cyrano devises a plan: he writes passionate love letters pretending to be someone else, hoping to win Roxane's affection. The story explores themes of love, courage, and self-worth in 17th century France. It’s a classic tale about a man struggling with his insecurities while pursuing a seemingly unattainable dream.Stream onIMDb 7.5TMDB 7.3
- 7
La La LandMovie · 2016 · 129m · Comedy, Drama, RomanceMia, an actress hoping for her big break, works as a barista for celebrities between auditions. Sebastian, a jazz musician, plays small gigs to make ends meet. As they both start to achieve their goals, they face choices that strain their relationship, and the dreams they shared with each other are put at risk.Stream onIMDb 8.0TMDB 7.9
- 8
The Imitation GameMovie · 2014 · 113m · History, Drama, ThrillerThis film tells the true story of Alan Turing, a brilliant cryptanalyst, and his team at Bletchley Park. During World War II, they raced against time to break the enemy's codes.Stream onIMDb 8.0TMDB 8.0
- 9
Strictly BallroomMovie · 1992 · 94m · Comedy, Drama, RomanceScott, a driven professional close to achieving his career goals, faces a major test when a new project demands he take significant risks. Partnering with someone new, he must demonstrate his ability to succeed and continue advancing. The film explores courage, resilience, and the value of trusting one's judgment when facing difficult situations, highlighting the nature of ambition and personal development.Stream onIMDb 7.2TMDB 6.6
- 10
BellaMovie · 2006 · 91m · Drama, RomanceA world-famous soccer player is about to secure a lucrative contract when an unexpected event derails his career. Meanwhile, a waitress working hard in New York City uncovers a hidden aspect of her identity, one she wasn't expecting. In a single, life-altering instant, their lives are irrevocably changed.Stream onIMDb 7.0TMDB 6.3
- 11
12 Years a SlaveMovie · 2013 · 134m · Drama, HistoryIn the United States before the Civil War, Solomon Northup, a free Black man from New York, is kidnapped and forced into slavery. He endures cruelty and kindness while fighting to survive and maintain his self-respect. During his twelfth year of captivity, a chance encounter with a Canadian abolitionist will change his life forever.Stream onIMDb 8.1TMDB 7.9
- 12
The Fisher KingMovie · 1991 · 138m · Comedy, DramaI.M. Weasel is exceptionally capable: noble, generous, brilliant, and successful at anything he tries. This story follows his latest confrontation with his nemesis, I.R. Baboon. While I.M. Weasel excels, I.R. Baboon is clumsy, unintelligent, and talentless. As they face challenges together, the story explores rivalry, personal development, and the difference between good and bad, all within an exciting adventure. The result of this clash between I.M. Weasel's goodness and I.R. Baboon's incompetence promises to engage audiences as they support the heroic Weasel in overcoming difficulties.Stream onIMDb 7.5TMDB 7.3
- 13
Best BoyMovie · 1979 · 111mThis documentary chronicles the daily life of Philly, the director's middle-aged cousin with intellectual disabilities, over a three-year span.Stream onIMDb 7.8TMDB 6.4
- 14
ShineMovie · 1996 · 105m · DramaThis moving film chronicles pianist David Helfgott's challenging path through classical music, shaped by the demanding expectations of his father and instructors. The film shows how this relentless pressure affects David's mental well-being, ultimately leading to a severe breakdown. It also explores the strength of the human spirit and art's ability to heal. Years later, Helfgott re-enters the music world, finding comfort and renewed purpose. His return to performing, despite divided critical responses, demonstrates the power of overcoming personal struggles through music.Stream on - 15
The Princess BrideMovie · 1987 · 99m · Adventure, Fantasy, FamilyPrincess Buttercup and Westley begin an incredible journey to find happiness, facing many dangers along the way. They travel through dangerous lands filled with menacing swordsmen, scheming princes, and unusual creatures. The couple must also deal with the idea of death. Despite the huge challenges they face, their strong love helps them overcome everything and finally reunite.Stream on - 16
Bad TimingMovie · 1980 · 123m · Mystery, Drama, ThrillerSet in Vienna, the film centers on Alex Linden, a psychiatrist whose life changes when he meets Milena Flaherty. Milena's vibrant personality sparks a powerful attraction in Alex, despite their age difference. They begin a passionate but complicated relationship, even though Milena is already married.
When Milena suffers an overdose and is hospitalized, the repercussions of their affair become unavoidable for Alex. He is questioned by Inspector Netusil, who seeks to expose the truth about their dangerous relationship. As intense emotions and hidden secrets emerge, the story examines passion, addiction, and the difficulties of human relationships.Stream on - 17
Whale RiderMovie · 2003 · 101m · Drama, FamilyThis is a story about love, disappointment, and ultimately, success. A young Maori woman strives to achieve a future her grandfather doesn't believe in.Stream on - 18
PreciousMovie · 2009 · 110m · DramaHarlem, 1987. Sixteen-year-old Claireece "Precious" Jones faces unimaginable hardship. Pregnant again by her father, who is absent from her life, Precious endures a brutal home life dominated by an abusive mother. At school, amidst chaos, Precious has surprisingly maintained good grades while hiding a devastating secret: she is illiterate.Stream onIMDb 7.3TMDB 7.3
- 19
AmélieMovie · 2001 · 122m · Comedy, RomanceIn a small café in Paris, the sweet but shy Amélie discovers she finds joy in secretly helping people. She dedicates herself to matchmaking, offering small acts of kindness, and generally improving the lives around her. However, her world shifts when she meets a charming stranger, forcing her to consider if she’s ready to pursue her own happiness and find love.Stream on - 20
The Decline of the American EmpireMovie · 1986 · 101m · Comedy, DramaFour university professors – Remy, Claude, Pierre, and Alain – gather at a country house to cook a meal together. Their shared cooking and conversation evolve into open discussions about sex, relationships, and personal experiences. Simultaneously, their partners – Louise, Dominique, Diane, and Danielle – discuss similar topics at a city health gym. That evening, everyone reunites for dinner at the house, where a surprise guest, Mario, an acquaintance of Diane’s, arrives with his own unexpected addition. The film examines the connections between love, sexuality, and the challenges of human relationships through these characters' interactions.Stream on - 21
RoomMovie · 2015 · 118m · Drama, ThrillerAfter seven years imprisoned in a confined space, a woman and her young son are released and experience the outside world together for the first time.Stream onIMDb 8.1TMDB 8.0
- 22
Eastern PromisesMovie · 2007 · 100m · Thriller, Crime, MysteryA Russian teenager living in London dies giving birth, leaving behind a diary filled with clues. These clues suggest a connection between her child and a violent rape committed by a Russian mob family.Stream on - 23
Hotel RwandaMovie · 2004 · 122m · Drama, History, WarBased on true events, the film is set in Rwanda during the 1990s, a time when over a million Tutsis were murdered in a genocide largely ignored internationally. Hotel owner Paul Rusesabagina uses his hotel to shelter over a thousand refugees, desperately trying to protect them from the violence.Stream on - 24
The Official StoryMovie · 1985 · 112m · Drama, HistoryIn 1983 Buenos Aires, Argentina, history teacher Alicia begins investigating the dark truths of her country's recent military dictatorship. She adopts a young girl named Gaby, unknowingly setting her on an unexpected course.
Alicia’s passion for history and desire for answers lead her to uncover secrets about Argentina's past, raising questions about Gaby's origins. Determined to find the truth, she wants to protect Gaby from a hidden past that has deeply affected the nation.
As Alicia navigates a world of secrets and betrayals, her love for Gaby and pursuit of justice drive her forward. Set against a nation rebuilding, this story explores motherhood, justice, and the strength of human connection in difficult times.Stream on - 25
The King's SpeechMovie · 2010 · 118m · Drama, HistoryThe King's Speech is the story of Prince Albert, who becomes King George VI, father to Queen Elizabeth II. When his brother steps down, Albert ('Bertie') unexpectedly inherits the throne. Struggling with a severe stutter and deemed unready to rule, Bertie seeks help from an unconventional speech therapist, Lionel Logue. Through surprising methods and a growing friendship, Bertie learns to speak confidently and bravely guides his nation through war.Stream onIMDb 8.0TMDB 7.7
- 26
The Hanging GardenMovie · 1997 · 91mWilliam, who left home ten years ago as a troubled and overweight teenager, returns to find his family and childhood home filled with echoes of his past. He's since transformed into a fit and happy gay man living in the city, but his visit triggers painful memories. As he confronts the reasons for his unhappy adolescence, the past comes vividly back to life, unraveling his newfound stability.Stream onIMDb 6.8TMDB 6.2
- 27
PriestMovie · 1995 · 98m · Drama, RomanceFather Greg Pilkington struggles with his faith as a conservative Catholic priest and his secret love for another man, a conflict forbidden by the Church. His world is shaken when a young girl confesses a devastating secret about her father. Deeply affected, Greg is forced to confront the difficult choices between his personal desires, his religious beliefs, and the moral implications of his actions. The story explores the complexities of faith and the struggles of living authentically while grappling with profound dilemmas.Stream onIMDb 7.1TMDB 6.3
- 28
Chariots of FireMovie · 1981 · 123m · Drama, HistoryIn 1920s Britain, a period of social and religious division, this film tells the inspiring stories of Eric Liddell and Harold Abrahams, two young men dedicated to running and striving for Olympic success.
Eric, a deeply religious Christian and son of missionaries, sees running as a spiritual practice and refuses to compromise his faith, even when it challenges his athletic career. Harold Abrahams faces prejudice due to his Jewish heritage and struggles for acceptance in a society that often excludes him. His intense focus on achieving recognition leaves him with little time for personal connections, especially with his girlfriend.
As the 1924 Paris Olympics draw near, Eric and Harold's paths cross as they both aim to represent Britain. The film examines themes of faith, determination, and self-discovery during a turbulent period in British history, highlighting the human spirit’s strength in overcoming obstacles.Stream on - 29
TsotsiMovie · 2005 · 94m · Crime, DramaTsotsi, a young man growing up in the Johannesburg ghetto, left his home as a child to escape his parents. Now a teenage gangster, he steals a car and discovers a baby in the back seat. Tsotsi takes the child under his care, and through this unexpected responsibility, begins to question his life of crime.Stream on - 30
Women on the Verge of a Nervous BreakdownMovie · 1988 · 88m · Comedy, DramaFollowing her lover's departure, Pepa feels life is unbearable and plans to end it with a lethal combination of sleeping pills and gazpacho. However, unexpected events disrupt her carefully laid plans. An unusual visitor arrives, followed by a surprising delivery, turning her world upside down. As these peculiar occurrences unfold, Pepa begins to reconsider her decision, leading to a story about love, loss, and finding beauty in life's unpredictable moments.Stream on - 31
GirlfriendsMovie · 1978 · 86m · Drama, ComedyThis drama follows a gifted photographer and her close friend and roommate. The photographer struggles to balance freelance work with her artistic ambitions, feeling her desired success remains out of reach. As her friend plans to marry and move out, the photographer experiences feelings of being left behind and must learn to become independent.
The film explores friendship, self-discovery, and strength as the photographer navigates life's changes. The cinematography highlights the intimate moments between friends and showcases the photographer’s artistic vision in her work. Audiences will connect with her journey toward finding balance and pursuing her dreams.Stream on - 32
Antonia's LineMovie · 1995 · 102m · Drama, ComedyAfter World War II, Antonia and her daughter Danielle return to their hometown in the Netherlands to inherit a small farm from Antonia's mother. They find themselves embraced by a close-knit community of unique individuals, including the quirky Crooked Finger and Bas, who believes he's destined for Antonia. As Antonia builds relationships within this group, she experiences the joy of welcoming a granddaughter and great-granddaughter. This story shows how women find strength and connection across generations while rebuilding their lives after the war.Stream on - 33
Places in the HeartMovie · 1984 · 111m · DramaIn rural Texas, 1935, Edna Spaulding, a young widow with two children, demonstrates strength and resolve. She manages her family, farm, and limited money while facing dangers like a devastating tornado and the Ku Klux Klan. Edna isn't alone; her resourceful sister Margaret, a blind boarder named Mr. Will, and Moze, a thief who becomes an unexpected ally, offer help. Together, they discover the importance of sticking together, helping others, and community as they deal with the difficulties of their era.Stream on - 34
Roger & MeMovie · 1989 · 91m · Documentary, History, Comedy"American Dream 2.0" is a documentary about the consequences of General Motors closing its Flint, Michigan plant. The closure cost over 30,000 jobs, leading to widespread hardship and despair in the city and surrounding communities. Filmmaker Michael Moore documents the emotional toll on those affected, focusing on the human impact of corporate choices. The film centers on Moore's efforts to interview GM CEO Roger Smith, believing he can either revitalize Flint or worsen its situation. Through personal stories and interviews, the film examines the failure of the American Dream and questions what happens when economic progress stops.Stream on - 35
Slumdog MillionaireMovie · 2008 · 121m · Drama, RomanceA teenage boy grapples with the aftermath of being accused of cheating on the Indian adaptation of "Who Wants to be a Millionaire?". He looks back on his life following the controversy.Stream on - 36
ZatoichiMovie · 2003 · 116m · Adventure, Drama, ActionZatoichi, a blind masseur and skilled swordsman who enjoys gambling, arrives in a village plagued by feuding gangs. He decides to defend the villagers from the violence.Stream on - 37
The SnapperMovie · 1993 · 95m · Comedy, DramaIn Dublin, 20-year-old Sharon Curley lives a lively life with her parents and many siblings. Her world changes when she becomes pregnant, but she keeps the father's identity a secret. This sparks rumors and curiosity in their tight-knit community, straining Sharon's family bonds and pushing her to examine her own life in this touching story about love, responsibility, and finding herself.Stream on - 38
TempestMovie · 1982 · 140m · Comedy, Drama, RomancePhilip Dimitrius, a successful architect, feels deeply unhappy in his 40s. He travels to a remote Greek island seeking peace and a new perspective as his personal and career life falls apart. But his new girlfriend and teenage daughter struggle to connect with his withdrawn nature. As Philip searches for meaning, he faces the difficulties of love, family, and adapting to change. This story explores one man's quest for purpose during difficult times, examining how people connect and evolve.Stream on - 39
CBS Evening NewsMovie · 1997 · 116m · Comedy, DramaThis moving story follows an Italian bookseller with a Jewish heritage, whose life centers on his passion for books in a peaceful town. His peaceful world is shattered when World War II begins and his family is deported to a concentration camp.
As darkness descends, the father uses a clever way to shield his son from the horrors of their imprisonment. He convinces his child that their terrible situation is just a game, offering a fragile sense of normalcy in their nightmare.
The film is a powerful exploration of resilience, hope, and love during hardship. It’s a heartbreaking tale of a father fighting to protect his family and preserve their humanity amidst unimaginable tragedy.Stream onIMDb 8.6TMDB 8.4
