TIFF Day 4 – Battle of the Sexes, mother!, Roman J. Israel Esq.

Just days before the festival was to begin, the festival announced the addition of a last minute entry.  But, when your film has Denzel Washington, they always welcome you with open arms.  Putting a bit of a wrench into the scheduling at Ryerson was a small price to pay for the Oscar winner (though those at midnight madness likely didn’t love their film starting quite late!).  His collaboration with Nightcrawler director Dan Gilroy, Roman J. Israel Esq. had its world premiere Sunday evening at the Toronto International Film Festival.  Even Nightcrawler star Jake Gyllenhaal was in attendance, much to the joy of everyone in the audience.  The film, the story of a lawyer’s internal ethical dilemma and consequences of action also starred Colin Farrell, who was absent, despite having been present for The Killing of a Sacred Deer earlier in the festival.

Prior to the Washington Film, the premiere of Battle of the Sexes occurred.  A VERY full stage of the cast was present for introductions and a Q&A afterwards, and the subject of the film herself, Billie Jean King was present, and receiver of a standing ovation from that appreciative audience.  Cast present included Emma Stone, Steve Carell, Bill Pullman, Alan Cumming, Elisabeth Shue, and Sarah Silverman.  Silverman was a bit late to the Q&A, trying to sneak on stage, albeit unsuccessfully when she announced to the crowd that she was late due to having to visit the loo.  The comedienne didn’t miss a beat!

Across town, the much-anticipated premiere of Darren Aranofsky’s mother! Was taking place at the Princess of Wales theatre.  Stars Jennifer Lawrence and Javier Bardem were on hand for the red carpet.  Co-star Ed Harris had been present for the premiere of Kodachrome earlier in the week but was absent for this red carpet.

However if either of these three films didn’t do it for you, there were plenty more to choose from.  Animated film The Breadwinner, which was produced by Angelina Jolie, was host to the actress as well as her children.  Dame Judi Dench was in town to support her upcoming film Victoria & Abdul, and Jessica Chastain, having already had a successful premiere with Molly’s Game, returned to the red carpet for Woman Walks Ahead. Disobedience saw a premiere with two Rachels – McAdams and Weisz, the former being a home town favourite.  The Florida Project, which had an apparently adorable Q&A after its premiere had star Willem Dafoe in attendance.

The Toronto International Film Festival continues until September 17th.  You can visit www.tiff.net in order to get details on tickets and all of the featured movies.