Renowned filmmaker Mike Leigh is set to be honored with a Tribute Award at the 2024 Toronto Film Festival. Leigh, known for his exceptional work in cinema, will receive the prestigious TIFF Ebert Director Award on September 8. His latest film, 'Hard Truths,' will have its world premiere at the festival, marking his return to the Toronto Film Festival stage. Over the years, Leigh has graced the festival with acclaimed films such as 'Another Year,' 'Happy-Go-Lucky,' and 'Mr. Turner.'
Leigh's remarkable career has been adorned with numerous accolades, including seven Oscar nominations, the Palme d’Or at Cannes, and the Golden Lion at Venice. His contributions to the world of cinema have solidified his place as a visionary director.
In addition to Mike Leigh, Canadian director Durga Chew-Bose will be presented with the TIFF Emerging Talent Award. Chew-Bose's adaptation of Françoise Sagan’s classic novel 'Bonjour Tristesse,' starring Chloe Sevigny, will kick off TIFF’s Discovery program with a world premiere.
Furthermore, the talented French songwriting and composing duo, Camille Dalmais and Clement Ducol, will be honored with the TIFF Artisan Award for their exceptional work on the soundtrack of Jacques Audiard’s 'Emilia Perez.' Audiard's crime musical, which garnered critical acclaim at Cannes, will have its North American premiere at TIFF before its Netflix release in November.
The Tribute Awards at TIFF serve a noble cause, with proceeds going towards the festival’s TIFF Every Story Fund. This fund aims to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in filmmaking, supporting emerging voices in the industry.
The gala dinner fundraiser, held at the prestigious Fairmont Royal York Hotel, not only supports philanthropic efforts but also serves as a platform for recognizing cinematic excellence. The TIFF Tribute Award recipients often have their films featured in Toronto’s official lineup, showcasing their outstanding contributions to cinema.
Other esteemed honorees at the 2024 Toronto Film Festival include Cate Blanchett, who will receive the TIFF Share Her Journey Groundbreaker Award, David Cronenberg, set to be honored with the Norman Jewison Career Achievement Award, and the talented actress Amy Adams, who will receive the TIFF Tribute Performer Award.
Previous recipients of the TIFF Tribute Awards include industry luminaries such as Jessica Chastain, Roger Deakins, Sir Anthony Hopkins, Joaquin Phoenix, and Chloé Zhao, among others. These awards not only celebrate cinematic excellence but also pave the way for future talents in the world of filmmaking.
