40th TIFF officially underway

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The 40th Toronto International Film Festival is now underway. Nearly 400 films are being screened this year from over 70 countries, and some of the biggest names in Hollywood will be walking the red carpet over the next ten days. Sean Leathong and Melissa Raftis will be bringing us coverage throughout the festival.

Ticket buyers had to pack their patience as this years films are once again attracting big crowds. Once again the people’s festival has closed off King Street to allow movie goes and star gazers a chance to take a picture and enjoy Hollywood North.

Over the past 40 years, TIFF has gained a reputation as the festival that can launch Oscar success. Film critic Bonnie Laufer says this years crop of films might be the best one. “I have to tell you, there’s not one stinker in the bunch.” First up, is the movie Trumbo, starring Bryan Cranston. Its based on the true story of screen writer Dalton Trumbo who was blacklisted in the 1950’s. “Bryan Cranston…I don’t know, this man can do no wrong. He is so fantastic as Trumbo. I won’t doubt if we see him getting an Oscar nomination for best actor.”

But she says there might be stiff competition from Tom Hardy in “legend” who plays both of Englands infamous Cray brothers. “He is superb. There is one scene where he fights himself. I don’t know how they do this stuff…I know its movie magic but oh my goodness its so fantastic.”