11 Films to See at 2025 TIFF (With Trailers)

The Toronto International Film Festival is back for its 50th anniversary, running from September 4 to 14. With the final lineup now public, festival-goers are starting to plan their schedules. The program features a mix of high-profile premieres, indie dramas, and international pictures.

If you’re trying to decide what to see, here is a look at 11 films that are already generating discussion ahead of the festival.

11 Films to See at the Toronto International Film Festival 2025

1. Hamnet (Directed by Chloé Zhao)

From the director of Nomadland, this film stars Paul Mescal and Jessie Buckley as William and Agnes Shakespeare. It focuses on the death of their 11-year-old son, Hamnet, and its connection to the play Hamlet.

2. It Was Just an Accident (Directed by Jafar Panahi)

This film from Iranian director Jafar Panahi makes its Canadian premiere at TIFF. The story follows two men who are brought together by a car accident, leading to an ethical conflict. The movie was partially filmed in Iran without official permits.

3. Frankenstein (Directed by Guillermo del Toro)

Director Guillermo del Toro offers his take on Mary Shelley’s classic novel. The film stars Oscar Isaac as Victor Frankenstein and Jacob Elordi as his creation, exploring themes of humanity and belonging.

4. If I Had Legs I’d Kick You (Directed by Mary Bronstein)

Rose Byrne stars in this dark comedy about a mother whose life is unraveling as she deals with a sick child and a difficult marriage. Christian Slater and Conan O’Brien also appear in the film.

5. Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery (Directed by Rian Johnson)

Daniel Craig returns as detective Benoit Blanc in the third Knives Out movie. This installment is said to have a darker tone and features another large ensemble cast, including Glenn Close, Josh Brolin, and Mila Kunis.

6. Sound of Falling (Directed by Mascha Schilinski)

This German folk-horror film follows four generations of women living on a family farm. The story spans from the early 1900s to the present day, exploring the trauma and connections that pass between them.

7. The Smashing Machine (Directed by Benny Safdie)

Benny Safdie (Uncut Gems) directs this sports drama starring Dwayne Johnson as UFC fighter Mark Kerr. The film follows Kerr’s career and his struggles with addiction. Emily Blunt also stars.

8. Christy (Directed by David Michôd)

Sydney Sweeney plays pioneering female boxer Christy Martin in this biopic. The film chronicles her rise in the boxing world while she navigates personal challenges, including addiction and abuse.

Must-Watch Films at TIFF 2025 — *Photo via TIFF*

[TRAILER TO BE RELEASED SOON]

9. The Fence (Directed by Claire Denis)

Director Claire Denis’ new film is a social drama set on a construction site in Africa. It examines themes of racism and masculinity after an on-site accident creates tension between local workers and the site’s British ownership.

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[TRAILER TO BE RELEASED SOON]

10. Sentimental Value (Directed by Joachim Trier)

From the director of The Worst Person in the World, this drama stars Stellan Skarsgård as an aging film director attempting to reconnect with his estranged daughters. Elle Fanning also stars.

11. No Other Choice (Directed by Park Chan-wook)

Korean director Park Chan-wook (Oldboy) returns with this dark comedy thriller. The story is a political satire about a man who loses his job of 25 years, exploring themes of workplace culture and desperation.

TIFF 2025: What Else to Expect

This list samples just a few of the 290+ films that TIFF 2025 will showcase. The festival also includes a full slate of documentaries, short films, and independent pictures from around the world.

Additionally, the popular In Conversation With… series will return, featuring talks with stars like Ryan Reynolds, Dwayne Johnson, and Tessa Thompson, giving fans a chance to hear from them directly.

Which films are on your must-see list for TIFF this year? Let us know in the comments!

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