cwd-dev

TIFF 50: A Star-Studded Tribute to Cinema’s Finest
By: Cristina Carpio
The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) is marking its 50th anniversary with a dazzling
celebration of artistry, activism, and storytelling at this year’s TIFF Tribute Awards, happening
on Sunday, September 7, 2025. The annual gala, often regarded as an Oscar precursor, shines
a spotlight on some of the most inspiring figures in global cinema.
Honouring Visionaries and Icons
This year’s group of honorees truly reflects what TIFF is all about: celebrating legends, lifting up new talent, and shining a light on stories that move us all:
● Beloved storyteller Guillermo del Toro will be honoured with the TIFF Ebert Director
Award for his visionary films and the magic he brings to the industry.
● Jodie Foster, known for her fearless roles and advocacy, will receive the Share Her
Journey Groundbreaker Award. She’s not just a Hollywood icon—she’s a champion for
women in the industry.
● Rising star HIKARI will be recognized with the Emerging Talent Award, a nod to her
fresh storytelling and the bright future ahead for cinema.
● Korean superstar Lee Byung-Hun will receive a Special Tribute Award, celebrating his
international impact and the way he’s brought audiences together across borders.
Celebrating Excellence in Performance and Craft
This year’s tribute also shines a spotlight on the performers and behind-the-scenes artists who
make movie magic possible:
● Fan favourites Channing Tatum and Nina Hoss will each receive Tribute Performer
Awards, celebrating their versatility, dedication, and the unforgettable characters they’ve
brought to life.
● Oscar-winning makeup artist Kazu Hiro—whose work has transformed actors into
icons—will be honoured with the Variety Artisan Award for his incredible artistry.

Awards with Purpose
TIFF’s Tribute Awards aren’t just about glitz and glamour—they also honor storytelling that
sparks real change:
● Idris Elba will receive the Jeff Skoll Award in Impact Media for seamlessly blending
entertainment with social impact, making a difference on and off the screen.
● Jafar Panahi, the Iranian filmmaker known for his courage and powerful storytelling, and
Zacharias Kunuk, the Inuk director sharing Inuit stories with the world, will both be
recognized with Special Tribute Awards.
● Comedy legend and Canadian treasure Catherine O’Hara will be celebrated with the
Norman Jewison Career Achievement Award, honouring her as one of the nation’s most
beloved performers.
A Canadian Spotlight
And to make things even more special, Oscar-winner Brendan Fraser will act as Honorary
Chair of the gala, adding a touch of Canadian pride to this milestone celebration. The 50th
edition of TIFF isn’t just a film festival—it’s a celebration of culture and community. With
honorees from all over the world, this year’s Tribute Awards will remind us why movies matter:
they inspire, transform, and bring people together.
Spotlight Celebrities Attending & In Conversation
TIFF’s “In Conversation With…” series will feature candid chats and personal insights from
some of Hollywood’s brightest stars:
● Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson will open up about his journey in Hollywood and discuss
his latest film, The Smashing Machine, an A24 drama making its debut at TIFF.
● Ryan Reynolds, who’s producing TIFF’s opening night, returns to his hometown to talk
about John Candy: I Like Me, a heartfelt tribute to the beloved Canadian comedian.
● Acclaimed director Park Chan-wook will join Canadian filmmaker Don McKellar for
an engaging discussion about their new film, No Other Choice.
● Actress Tessa Thompson, director Nia DaCosta, and more will share their stories and
behind-the-scenes experiences in these in-depth chats.
Films with Major Stars & High Expectations
The festival’s Gala and Special Presentations are packed with films featuring some of the
most sought-after stars:
● Good Fortune — Comedian Aziz Ansari steps behind the camera to direct this comedy,
with Keanu Reeves taking on the role of the angel Gabriel.
● Christy — Sydney Sweeney transforms into legendary boxer Christy Martin in this
inspiring biopic, which also stars Ben Foster and Merritt Wever.
● Couture — Angelina Jolie returns to the screen in this much-anticipated drama, sure to
draw plenty of attention.
● Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery — Daniel Craig reprises his role in the
third installment of this clever whodunit series, joined by an all-star ensemble.
● The Lost Bus — Acclaimed director Paul Greengrass teams up with Matthew
McConaughey for what promises to be an unforgettable cinematic ride.
● Rental Family — Brendan Fraser headlines this intriguing new project that’s already
generating buzz.
● Roofman — Directed by Derek Cianfrance, this film stars Channing Tatum, who will also
be honored with the TIFF Tribute Performer Award, alongside co-star Kirsten Dunst.
● Franz, Nuremberg, and Swiped are among the other films making waves at this year’s
festival.
Share this post
Subscribe to Newsletter

Save 15% off your first purchase at EVOLVE Shop when you subscribe.
– Advertisement –
Latest Stories