After a somewhat disappointing Toronto Film Festival last year, fans are eagerly looking ahead to 2025, hoping for a dramatic comeback. With some films missing the mark, the anticipation is palpable for a lineup that could redefine Oscar season. This year's selections aim to rejuvenate the festival’s reputation as a launchpad for future Academy Award contenders.

The Lost Bus

Paul Greengrass returns with The Lost Bus, a gripping new film based on the tragic Camp Fire in California. Starring Matthew McConaughey as a heroic bus driver, this film promises to be both a thriller and an emotional experience, especially considering the ongoing wildfire challenges in the state. The collaboration with Oscar winner Jamie Lee Curtis brings added prestige to this highly anticipated narrative.

Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery

Rian Johnson is back with another installment of his beloved Knives Out franchise! Featuring Daniel Craig and a star-studded cast including Glenn Close and Kerry Washington, this whodunnit is set against a backdrop of English intrigue and religion. After the success of the first two films, the excitement for this sequel is at an all-time high.

Christy

Sydney Sweeney steps into the spotlight in Christy, portraying trailblazing boxer Christy Martin. Directed by David Michôd, this film spotlights Martin's rise and her harrowing personal struggles. Following a rocky couple of months, Sweeney is hoping this empowering role helps reframe her narrative within Hollywood.

Good Fortune

Aziz Ansari makes his long-awaited return with Good Fortune, a high-concept comedy about life-swapping angels. With a stellar cast including Keanu Reeves and Sandra Oh, this film aims to revive the theatrical comedy experience, premiering at a prime Saturday night slot. Can Ansari reclaim his comedic crown?

The Fence

Claire Denis breaks new ground with The Fence, a tense drama set at a British construction site in Africa. Featuring a compelling story of tragedy and accountability, Matt Dillon leads an intriguing cast. Denis is known for her boundary-pushing narratives, and expectations are high for this latest offering.

Roofman

Get ready to laugh with Roofman, a nostalgic comedy led by Channing Tatum and Kirsten Dunst. Based on a true story about a robber hiding out in a Toys R Us, this film promises both humor and heart, reminiscent of early 2000s crowd-pleasers. Directed by Derek Cianfrance, all eyes are on whether this project can capture the magic.

The Christophers

Steven Soderbergh is known for his diverse filmography, and The Christophers promises to be yet another intriguing entry. This dark comedy features a talented cast including Ian McKellen and Michaela Coel, centered around an artist tasked with completing a legendary work. Fans are eager to see how Soderbergh spins this uniquely captivating narrative.

The Choral

Ralph Fiennes stars as a choir director in The Choral, set in a war-torn Yorkshire in 1916. Directed by Nicholas Hytner, this film explores unity through music amid adversity. With a rich historical backdrop, audiences are hoping for a poignant and uplifting experience.

EPiC: Elvis Presley in Concert

Baz Luhrmann returns with EPiC: Elvis Presley in Concert, showcasing newly unearthed footage of the King during his vibrant Vegas residency. This documentary promises a thrilling mix of behind-the-scenes moments and stunning performances that dive deeper into the persona of Elvis than ever before.