The Toronto International Film Festival marks the shift to fall movie season. Every year, it showcases films that go on to receive awards buzz. I attended the festival and watched 25 films, many of which you might see soon. Below are some of my favorites.

All That She Wants

Annie Murphy shines as Emma, a single woman navigating her thirties and a career while desiring motherhood. She meets Luke, played by Cooper Raiff, who is ten years younger and brings potential romance. Murphy’s chemistry with Raiff provides a cozy rom-com feel. Notable appearances include Christine Baranski, Bill Irwin, and Zosia Mamet. This film is still seeking a distributor.

Babies

Annie (Anna Kendrick) and Aaron (Seth Rogen) face the tough choice of starting a family. With pressures from their social circle and Annie nearing advanced maternal age, tensions rise. Lauren Miller Rogen, the writer-director, delivers comedy and warmth through strong lead performances. Supporting roles include Issa Rae and David Strathairn, adding depth to the narrative. Expect a release in 2027.

Clarissa

#2 and #3

Adapted from Virginia Woolf’s Mrs. Dalloway, Clarissa is set in modern Lagos, Nigeria. Sophie Okonedo captivates as Clarissa, a socialite confronted by her past. The film explores social and economic dynamics, centered on personal relationships. Notable supporting performances feature Peter, played by Toheeb Jimoh and David Oyelowo, and Sally, portrayed by Ayo Edebiri and Nikki Amuka-Bird. Clarissa arrives in theaters on December 11.

The Debut

#5

Jesse Eisenberg’s new film veers into surreal comedy. Mona (Julianne Moore) seeks fulfillment through community theater, led by Jerry (Paul Giamatti). Their collaboration results in unexpected and odd events. This film is suited for fans of local theater quirks or Moore’s performances. It hits theaters on December 11.

Everytime

Directed by Sandra Wollner, this film explores grief in unique ways. When a teenager dies, her loved ones — her mother, sister, and boyfriend — struggle to cope. The narrative is open-ended, reflecting life’s complexities. Though it lacks a U.S. release date, it represents Germany in the Oscars international feature race.

The Face of Horror

#8

Anna Biller reimagines a Japanese ghost story, adding critique and style reminiscent of Technicolor and Roger Corman horror. Jonah Hauer-King stars as a knight whose actions affect his wife, played by Kristine Frøseth. This film debuted in TIFF’s Midnight Madness section and has yet to gain U.S. distribution.

Look Back

#7

Adapted from Tatsuki Fujimoto’s manga, Kore-eda’s film tells the emotional story of Fujino and Kyomoto, schoolgirls who bond over manga. Their shared passion leads to professional success. The film’s intimate performances capture the artistic process effectively.

Tender Loving Care

Mike Leigh’s reflective film focuses on Amy, a social worker played by Kate O’Flynn, as she moves in with her friend Rosie post-breakup. The narrative centers on deeply emotional conversations, enriched by performances from Paul Jesson and Marion Bailey. Premiere set for December 4.