The Calgary International Film Festival (CIFF) is back for its 25th year, and this year's lineup offers a little something for everyone. Here are ten films, organized alphabetically, that we think you should watch out for at CIFF 2024:
1. Adrianne & The Castle
This unique documentary already has a 75% Fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Follow Alan and Adrianne St-George as they try to insert a little magic into their lives through their hand-made castle in rural Illinois. We have a feeling we're really going to like this couple!
2. All We Imagine As Light
Payal Kapadia's All We Imagine As Light is a leading contender for best international film, winning the prestigious Grand Prix at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival. The film is a stunning exploration of resilience and personal transformation set against the backdrop of a rapidly evolving Mumbai. It follows three women as they navigate societal pressures, displacement, and personal relationships.
3. Anora
This drama from Red Rocket director Sean Baker is one of the hottest tickets at CIFF. Anora will likely be in the Oscar conversation later this fall as Mikey Madison is getting rave reviews for playing a young sex worker who gets her chance at a Cinderella story when she meets and marries the son of a Russian oligarch. Think of this as the dark side of Pretty Woman.
4. Bonjour Tristesse
If you've never heard of Montreal-based writer/director Durga Chew-Bose, chances are you'll be hearing her name a lot more. Set in the idyllic French seaside, the movie follows an 18-year-old girl enjoying a carefree summer with her charming father and his young lover. Their joyful abandon is disrupted when a visit from a sophisticated family friend stirs up hidden tensions. Bonjour Tristesse is a remake of the 1958 film and a modern retelling of Françoise Sagan's scandalous novel.
5. Dark Match
A dark thriller set in the underground professional wrestling circuit? In the immortal words of Stone Cold Steve Austin, "Hell yeah!" The made-in-Edmonton feature from Canadian writer/director Lowell Dean's film promises suspense mixed with adrenaline-fuelled action, both in and out of the ring.
6. A Different Man
Sebastian Stan (Marvel’s Winter Soldier) headlines this moody drama about an aspiring actor who undergoes a drastic medical procedure to radically change his appearance. However, his dream face soon becomes a nightmare when he misses out on the role of a lifetime. Prepare to be blown away by Adam Pearson, a British actor and TV host who has neurofibromatosis. He’s spent years advocating against bullying and discrimination toward people with visible differences, making his presence on screen all the more impactful.
7. Lucky Star
When a reformed gambler is caught in a tax scam, he returns to poker to recover his losses while his family adopts their own questionable tactics to survive. This feature from Calgary filmmaker Gillian McKercher explores fatherly love, deceit, and redemption. Lucky Star was given the coveted spot of closing this year's festival.
8. Rumours
Canadian filmmakers Guy Maddin, Evan Johnson and Galen Johnson assemble an all-star cast, including Oscar winners Cate Blanchett and Alicia Vikander, for this jet-black comedy set at the G7 summit. A group of world leaders attempt to address a global crisis but face absurd and surreal challenges. Their incompetence is exposed as night falls, leaving them stranded and alone in the misty woods. Sounds like the perfect escape for election season!
9. The Thicket
It took actor/producer Peter Dinklage over a decade to bring this dark Western noir to the screen. Filmed in Southern Alberta, it follows a boy who teams up with a bounty hunter to rescue his kidnapped sister from a brutal outlaw. Gritty and suspenseful, this film offers edge-of-your-seat action and rich character development. Keep your eyes peeled - you may see co-star Leslie Grace (In The Heights) in person at the film's Opening Night Gala!
10. The Tragically Hip: No Dress Rehearsal
A documentary dedicated to the legendary Canadian rock band, this film captures the essence of their music and their massive impact on Canadian culture. From intimate interviews to rare backstage footage, fans will appreciate the deep dive into their legacy and the "Courage" of lead singer Gord Downie.
CIFF 2024 promises to be an unforgettable experience, offering much more than just film screenings. Over ten days, it transforms into a vibrant community celebration featuring exclusive events, streaming content, industry lectures, panels, presentations, and a unique highlight—special CIFF-themed food and drink menus at select cafes and restaurants. Dive into the full lineup and schedule HERE.
Shameless plug – Watch for our new Forward Level pre-show commercial before every screening! 😁
Happy CIFF everyone!
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