Commotion with Elamin Abdelmahmoud How does TIFF build on its legacy?
Sep 10, 2025
Film critic Barry Hertz from the Globe and Mail and CBC's Jackson Weaver dive into the rich legacy of the Toronto International Film Festival as it celebrates 50 years. They discuss TIFF's unique impact on cinema and its role in elevating unexpected films, while also examining its significance for Canadian filmmakers. The pair reflect on TIFF's origins, challenges during the pandemic, and the enduring popularity of 'The Princess Bride.' They also navigate the future, addressing the need for accessibility and the balance between industry insiders and everyday moviegoers.
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Humble Origins In 1976
- TIFF began in 1976 when three Toronto men launched the Festival of Festivals to kickstart the local film scene.
- Dusty Cole, Bill Marshall and Hank Vander Kolk used Cannes connections and civic networks to get it running.
Festival Built Around The Audience
- TIFF positions itself as a festival that closes the gap between Hollywood stars and ordinary audiences.
- The People's Festival identity centers everyday fans and moments like spotting Oprah in the crowd.
The Princess Bride: An Accidental Hit
- The Princess Bride was an accidental closing-night hit at TIFF 1987 that helped cement festival ties to films and talent.
- TIFF later screened it in a pandemic-era virtual watch-along with cast and creators to honor that shared history.
