The Toronto International Film Festival revealed 66 titles for this year’s gala and special presentations programs, popular platforms where red-carpet glamour and award-season buzz often intersect. The selection features a blend of global prestige and Canadian flair, showcasing world premieres of notable films.
Among the anticipated premieres are David and Nathan Zellner’s science-fiction comedy “Alpha Gang,” starring Cate Blanchett and Chris Pine, and Chris Rock’s dramedy “Misty Green,” with Adam Driver, Daniel Kaluuya, and Rosalind Eleazar. Also on the list is Anton Corbijn’s drama “A Talent for Murder,” featuring Helen Mirren, and Lauren Miller Rogen’s rom-com “Babies,” starring Seth Rogen and Anna Kendrick.
A highlight is “I Play Rocky” by director Peter Farrelly, exploring the making of the iconic film “Rocky,” with newcomer Anthony Ippolito portraying a young Sylvester Stallone. Additionally, the closing night gala will showcase Yan Lanouette Turgeon’s “Villeneuve: The Rise of a Legend,” a sports drama depicting the life of Canadian racing legend Gilles Villeneuve.
Andrew Haigh’s “A Long Winter,” a Canadian premiere set in the mountains, and Mina Shum’s “Whatcha Want,” described as a mix of “Crazy Rich Asians” and “Flashdance,” will also have their world premieres. The lineup includes the Dutch-Canadian co-production “In Alaska,” focusing on a 17-year-old Alaskan boy on the run after an incident involving an oil pipeline.
Moreover, Canadian director Michael Dowse’s “The Stunt Driver” and the U.S.-Canadian co-production “All She Wants,” a rom-com featuring Annie Murphy and Cooper Raiff, are part of the festival’s offerings. Documentaries like “Man in Motion: The Rick Hansen Story” and “Run Terry Run” add depth to the gala slate, celebrating prominent Canadian figures.
The 2026 Toronto International Film Festival is scheduled for Sept. 10-20, showcasing a diverse array of films. For the full list of gala and special presentations, visit the official TIFF website.