The Toronto International Film Festival isn’t just about what happens when the lights go down. For its 50th edition, TIFF is bringing the kind of star-powered events, street buzz, and behind-the-scenes access that make September in Toronto feel like the centre of the entertainment universe.
See also: TIFF 2025 Tribute Awards honour global cinema legends and emerging voices
In Conversation With…
From September 4–14, 2025, the “In Conversation With…” series will put audiences face-to-face with some of the most influential voices in global film. Expect candid, in-depth talks with cinematic heavyweights like Park Chan-wook, Dwayne Johnson, Ryan Reynolds, Tessa Thompson, and Nia DaCosta—each sharing career insights, creative journeys, and the stories behind their latest projects.
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For those under 25, TIFF Next Wave is offering something special: the brand-new Close-Up series. Its debut event will feature Project Y co-stars Han So-hee and Jun Jong-seo, rising talents whose work spans global cinema and chart-topping K-Pop collaborations. It’s a rare chance for young audiences to connect with the next generation of international stars.
Celebrating community is at the heart of TIFF’s programming. Now in its third year, the invite-only Black Excellence Brunch, presented by RBC and supported by the Jamaica Tourist Board, returns to highlight the creativity and influence of Black artists. This year’s event will also mark the 30th anniversary of Planet Africa, a groundbreaking festival programme that continues to inspire and empower.
Festival Street, running September 4–7, is set to buzz with free, open-air experiences. Headlining is the Criterion Mobile Closet, making its Canadian debut with an interactive collection of 1,700 films. Visitors can browse, discover, and even star in their own Closet video, while curated merchandise will be available at the TIFF Shop for those who want to take a piece of the festival home.
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These events offer more than just entertainment—they create moments of connection between artists and audiences, bridging cultures and sparking conversations that last far beyond the festival’s closing night. Whether you’re there for a world premiere, an intimate industry conversation, or a street party with fellow film lovers, TIFF 2025 is set to deliver an unforgettable blend of glamour, creativity, and community spirit.
For the full schedule and ticket information, visit tiff.net.
