Documentary works from the directors of 'Free Solo' and Laura Poitras, along with Gianfranco Rosi, will be showcased at the TIFF.
The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) has unveiled its lineup for TIFF Docs, featuring a diverse selection of documentaries from around the world. This year's program includes several high-profile premieres, capturing compelling real-life stories, exploring topical issues, and showcasing remarkable female scientists, activists, and other prominent figures.
Notable World Premieres
One of the notable world premieres is Love+War by directors Chai Vasarhelyi and Jimmy Chin. This documentary captures the life of photojournalist Lynsey Addario, offering an intimate look into her career and personal life.
Another standout is A Life Illuminated, directed by Tasha Van Zandt. This film follows marine biologist Dr. Edie Widder on her journey to explore ocean bioluminescence at depths rarely filmed, highlighting her inspiring work in marine science.
The Balloonists, directed by John Dower, documents adventurers attempting to circle the globe in a balloon, showcasing themes of exploration and human endurance.
A Wide Array of Documentaries
The 2021 TIFF Docs program includes 23 feature documentaries from 18 countries with 16 world premieres. The lineup features work by acclaimed filmmakers like Billy Corben, Laura Poitras, Raoul Peck, and Ben Proudfoot, among others.
Additional films in the lineup explore topical issues such as the sex industry in Modern Whore by Nicole Bazuin, and exposure of abuse within the Catholic Church in Nuns vs. the Vatican by Lorena Luciano.
Opening and Other Premieres
The program opens with Ben Proudfoot’s The Eyes of Ghana, supported by Barack and Michelle Obama. Other premieres include the North American premiere for Lucrecia Martel's "Landmarks", an international premiere for Rosi's "Below The Clouds", and the Canadian premiere of "Cover Up" from Poitras and Mark Obenhaus - all of which are Venice-bound.
Emphasis on Truth-Telling and Adventurous Subjects
TIFF Docs has been praised for its focus on truth-telling and adventurous subjects. The festival emphasizes strong Canadian representation and documentaries that provide both compelling storytelling and artistic craftsmanship.
The festival runs from September 4-14. For more information about the TIFF Docs lineup, visit the official TIFF website.
Entertainment spans movies-and-tv genres in TIFF Docs, featuring documentaries from around the world that delve into diverse topics and profiles notable figures. These documentaries, such as 'Love+War' and 'A Life Illuminated', showcase captivating real-life stories, highlighting topical issues and emphasizing entertainment in the form of exploration, human endurance, and personal life insights.
