Film buyers arriving at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) are on the hunt for the next breakout hit, with several high-profile titles boasting A-list talent generating significant buzz. The festival, which kicks off September 10, follows a record-setting acquisition from the previous year, where a horror film acquired for $15 million grossed over $506 million worldwide.
While one insider described this year's lineup as "a bit soft," several films have captured the attention of major buyers. Among the most talked-about is "Everybody Wants to F--k Me," starring Taron Egerton as a man who attracts the affections of all women. Another project generating buzz is "Prima Facie," featuring Cynthia Erivo as a barrister whose perspective is challenged after she becomes a victim of sexual assault. The film's stage predecessor earned Jodie Comer Olivier and Tony Awards, suggesting a potential awards campaign for Erivo.
"Bucking Fastard," directed by Werner Herzog and starring sisters Kate and Rooney Mara, is also generating interest. The surreal journey of twins seeking true love is playing at both the Venice and Toronto film festivals, and some predict it may be acquired before its TIFF premiere.
Another anticipated title is "The Julia Set," a coming-of-age story from first-time director Niki Byrne, featuring Chase Infiniti. Plot details are scarce, but the film follows a character descending into the world of competitive mathematics and boasts an ensemble cast including Christopher Briney, Gillian Anderson, Jason Isaacs, Nina Hoss, and Chloe Bailey. The film is expected to attract attention from major distributors like Focus or Searchlight.
"Onwards and Sideways," starring Laura Linney and Rhys Ifans as individuals diagnosed with Parkinson's disease, is also seeking North American distribution at TIFF after a planned U.K. theatrical release this fall. Described as "surprisingly funny, but very moving and heartbreaking," the film is expected to resonate with audiences.
Adding to the market activity, TIFF is introducing "TIFF – The Market," an expanded section at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre featuring 650 market screening slots. This move aims to streamline deal-making, mirroring practices at festivals like Cannes where commercial transactions occur alongside competitive programming.