Toronto Film Festival: A deep dive into this year’s documentary lineup

A celebration of storytelling through documentaries

The Toronto Film Festival (TIFF) is set to kick off on September 5, showcasing a diverse array of nonfiction films from around the globe. This year’s Docs program features 21 films from 24 countries, promising a rich tapestry of stories that delve into various aspects of human experience. The program will open with the world premiere of Eddie Huang’s “Vice Is Broke,” a compelling investigation into the rise and fall of the once-prominent digital news outlet, Vice Media.

Vice Media’s rise and fall

Eddie Huang, known for his unique perspective and insider knowledge, brings a personal touch to “Vice Is Broke.” As a former host of Vice’s “Huang’s World,” Huang offers an intimate look at the company’s journey from a $5.7 billion valuation in 2017 to filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy last year. The film is both humorous and poignant, featuring interviews with key figures who helped shape Vice into a cultural powerhouse. For a sneak peek, check out the Vice Is Broke trailer.

Political documentaries: A closer look at power and resistance

One of the standout political documentaries at TIFF is “The Last Republican,” directed by Steve Pink. The film profiles former Republican U.S. Rep. Adam Kinzinger, who broke ranks with the GOP to criticize Donald Trump following the January 6 insurrection. Kinzinger’s story is a fascinating exploration of political courage and conviction. Watch the The Last Republican trailer for more insights.

Another politically charged documentary making its world debut is “Men of War,” directed by Billy Corben and Jen Gatien. The film follows former U.S. Green Beret Jordan Goudreau, who was arrested in connection with a failed coup attempt to remove Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. This gripping tale of ambition and downfall is sure to captivate audiences. Check out the Men of War trailer.

Stories of resistance and resilience

“No Other Land,” directed by Yuval Abraham, Basel Adra, Hamdan Ballal, and Rachel Szor, documents the resistance of Palestinian activists against forced displacement and settler expansion in the West Bank community of Masafer Yatta. The film, which won the best documentary award at the Berlin Film Festival, is a powerful testament to the human spirit. Watch the No Other Land trailer to learn more.

Celebrating cultural icons and unsung heroes

Raoul Peck’s “Ernest Cole: Lost and Found” is another notable entry in this year’s lineup. The documentary explores the life and legacy of the late South African photographer Ernest Cole, who captured the brutal realities of apartheid. The film has already garnered critical acclaim, winning the L’Oeil d’or prize at the Cannes Film Festival. For a glimpse into Cole’s impactful work, view the Ernest Cole: Lost and Found trailer.

Women in focus

This year’s TIFF Docs program also shines a spotlight on women, with several films profiling influential female figures. Sinéad O’Shea’s “Blue Road – The Edna O’Brien Story” delves into the life of the late Irish novelist and playwright Edna O’Brien. Leila Amini’s “A Sisters’ Tale” offers a personal narrative about the director’s sister, while Ted Passon’s “Patrice: The Movie” highlights the work of disability rights activist Patrice Jetter. These films provide a nuanced look at the challenges and triumphs of women from different walks of life.

The broader context: Challenges in documentary distribution

Despite the compelling nature of these documentaries, the current landscape for documentary distribution is fraught with challenges. The recent collapse of Participant Media and Disney’s decision to remove the Afghan war documentary “Retrograde” from all its streaming platforms highlight the difficulties in finding homes for socially controversial films. However, TIFF remains a crucial platform for these stories to reach audiences and spark important conversations.

A diverse lineup

The TIFF Docs program features a wide range of topics and styles, from the world premiere of “Living Together” by Halima Elkhatabi to the North American premiere of “From Ground Zero,” a collaborative effort by multiple directors. Other notable entries include “Mistress Dispeller” by Elizabeth Lo, “Russians at War” by Anastasia Trofimova, and “So Surreal: Behind the Masks” by Neil Diamond and Joanne Robertson.

A call to action for cinema lovers

As cinema and TV series enthusiasts, we have the privilege and responsibility to support these powerful films. By attending festivals, sharing trailers, and advocating for wider distribution, we can help ensure that these important stories reach a broader audience. For more information on the full lineup, visit the TIFF Docs program.

Final thoughts

The Toronto Film Festival’s Docs program offers a rich and varied selection of documentaries that promise to enlighten, entertain, and provoke thought. From political dramas to personal narratives, these films provide a window into the complexities of our world. As we immerse ourselves in these stories, let us also reflect on the broader implications and the power of documentary filmmaking to inspire change.