film festivals, movies, The Death and Life of John F. Donovan, TIFF, Toronto, Toronto International Film Festival, Xavier Dolan
August 1, 2018
The Toronto International Film Festival ® today revealed Xavier Dolan’s “The Death and Life of John F. Donovan” will have its World Premiere at the Festival this September. The surprise announcement was made at TIFF’s Canadian press conference, held at the Fairmont Royal York Hotel in Toronto. The Death and Life of John F. Donovan follows the story of a young actor (Jacob Tremblay) as he reminisces on the letters he once shared with an American TV star (Kit Harington), who passed away a decade earlier, and the impact those letters had on both their lives. The film also stars Natalie Portman, Ben Schnetzer, Susan Sarandon, Jared Keeso, Kathy Bates, Thandie Newton, Emily Hampshire, and former TIFF Rising Star Sarah Gadon.
“In only a few short years, Xavier Dolan has drawn film lovers all over the world into his personal vision,” said Cameron Bailey, Artistic Director of TIFF. “That vision and his remarkable skill as a filmmaker are on full display in his English-language debut. We are honoured to premiere it in Toronto.”
“The Death and Life of John F. Donovan” will screen as part of the Special Presentations programme. The 43rd Toronto International Film Festival runs from September 6 to 16, 2018. For film synopses, cast lists, images, and more information, see tiff.net/tiff. Festival ticket packages start at $105. Purchase packages online at tiff.net/tickets, by phone (416.599.TIFF or 1.888.599.8433), or in person at TIFF Bell Lightbox until August 13, while quantities last. TIFF prefers Visa.