The Toronto International Film Festival isn’t only about the big event in September. No, they have a home in Toronto (the TIFF Bell Lightbox) where they host regular movie-related events and film programmes. TIFF Happenings takes a look at some of the cool things they’re doing for the coming week.
To the Stars by Hard Ways (Friday, March 16 at 9:15 p.m.)
Directed by Richard Viktorov, To the Stars by Hard Ways is one of the campiest Russian sci-fi films ever made, but it’s also a work of beauty. TIFF is screening a restored print of the film as part of their ongoing series Attack the Bloc: Cold War Science Fiction from Behind the Iron Curtain and it’s the perfect Friday night viewing.
Snake Eyes (Saturday, March 17 at 10 p.m.)
Brian De Palma has made many great thrillers in his time. Snake Eyes is not one of them. But it is a lot of fun and features Nic Cage at his finest. Hit it before the bars this St. Patrick’s Day.
Food on Film: Julie & Julia (Tuesday, March 20 at 6:30 p.m.)
Food Network Canada host Laura Calder introduces a special screening of Julie & Julia and gives her own insight into who Julia Child really was. Should make for an interesting night.
Jan Peacock: Using Clouds for Words (Wednesday, March 21 at 7 p.m.)
Jan Peacock is an artist who has been telling stories through video installations for over 30 years. Using Clouds for Words runs on the free screen and features selections of some her best work.
The Ballad of Genesis and Lady Jaye (daily screenings)
The Ballad of Genesis and Lady Jaye is a documentary about musician Genesis P-Orridge, who underwent surgery in order to look like his long-time lover. It’s both bizarre and heartfelt and is highly recommended if you’re looking for something a little different this week. The 8:45 p.m. screenings on March 16 and 17 will also feature a Q&A with director Marie Losier.
Jiro Dreams of Sushi (daily sceenings)
Another great documentary opening this week, Jiro Dreams of Sushi takes a look at 85-year-old Jiro Ono. He’s the only Michelin three-star sushi chef in the world and he works out of a 10-seat restaurant in a Tokyo office building. This is a must-see for foodies. The 7:15 p.m. screening on Friday, March 16 will include a Skype introduction from director David Gelb.
For more info on all TIFF Happenings, visit tiff.net.
Top image: A scene from Jiro Dreams of Sushi. Courtesy eOne Films.
