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It feels like a cliche to say that the Toronto International Film Festival will look a little different this year—the fact that it is happening at all seems somewhat miraculous. But TIFF has managed the ultimate pivot, with several alternative approaches helping to continue the iconic festival in its 45th year.

And with this year’s exciting line-up, cinephiles are surely relieved that it’s moving forward. With 50 new feature films set to premiere this year, titles like Ammonite, Concrete Cowboy and One Night in Miami, have already garnered major buzz.

Even with its 2020 adjustments, the festival will not be lacking in star power. This year, 50 TIFF ambassadors, including the likes of Ava Duverney, Nicole Kidman, and Darren Aronofsky, will take part in digital formats to help keep the magic of the festival alive.

Running from September 10th to 19th, TIFF is offering many safe ways to enjoy Toronto’s most exciting season, no matter your comfort level.

Toronto Film Festival
Photo by Jag Gundu courtesy of TIFF.

Indoor Theatres

For the traditionalists among us, there is still the option to watch the films screen in theatres. Films are set to premiere at the TIFF Bell Lightbox and the Isabel Bader Theatre this year. Of course, in order to stay in line with Ontario’s Stage 3 reopening guidelines, each theatre will have a limited capacity of 50 people to allow a safe distance between all movie goers.

A still from Ammonite courtesy of TIFF.

Drive-in Theatres

Taking inspiration from previous generations, there will be two drive-in theatre options to watch the films premiere at Visa Skyline Drive-In at CityView and RBC Lakeside Drive-In at Ontario Place. Pack your car up with your favourite snacks and enjoy this relic from the past from the safety of your own vehicle.

Open-air theatre

For those city dwellers without a car, don’t worry, TIFF has you covered. Screenings will also take place at West Island Open Air Cinema at Ontario Place—no vehicles needed. Groups of two can watch from “lawn pods,” creating a perfectly distanced option for viewers.

A still from Concrete Cowboy courtesy of TIFF.

Virtual Screenings

Of course there’s nothing safer than watching films from the comfort of your own home. Fans can enjoy screenings virtually this year through Chromecast or the newly developed digital TIFF app, available for download in the Apple App Store on September 9th. Please note these films will be watermarked to avoid any piracy issues.

Virtual Red Carpet

For those craving the fashion and glamour that are synonymous with film festivals, there will be a virtual red carpet available to stream at home. Get ready for some exciting looks!

Toronto Film Festival
Image by George Pimentel for Getty Images courtesy of TIFF.

Virtual Industry Conference

The annual TIFF Industry Conference will still go ahead this year through a digital format. With inspiring speakers, intriguing debates, and networking opportunities, this ticketed event is a must for those looking to learn more about a career in film.

Televised Award Show

For the first time ever, the TIFF Tribute awards will be available for any film fan to watch at home. Airing on CTV at 8 pm ET/PT on Tuesday, September 15, this year’s honourees include icons like Kate Winslet, Anthony Hopkins, and Chloé Zhao.

Feature image by Connie Tsang courtesy of TIFF.

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