I Play Rocky: The Crowd-Pleasing Winner
The biggest story out of TIFF 2026 is the story of a story. Peter Farrelly, who previously won the People's Choice Award with the eventual Best Picture-winning Green Book, has returned with I Play Rocky, a vibrant dramatization of how a struggling actor
named Sylvester Stallone willed his iconic screenplay into existence. While some critics found the film's earnest, on-the-nose approach a bit too conventional, audiences responded with overwhelming enthusiasm to its underdog spirit. Anthony Ippolito’s breakout performance as the determined Stallone has been widely praised, even by skeptical reviewers. The film is a pure, unadulterated crowd-pleaser that taps into the universal dream of beating the odds. Its win in Toronto instantly makes it a major contender this awards season, proving that a heartfelt, inspiring narrative often resonates more with viewers than with the critical establishment.
Club Kid: The Little Indie That Could
After a tearful, triumphant debut at Cannes, Jordan Firstman's dramedy Club Kid arrived at TIFF with considerable buzz. Firstman writes, directs, and stars as a veteran of the New York queer club scene whose life is upended by the discovery that he has a son. The film earned a spot as a People's Choice runner-up, captivating viewers with its heartfelt story of chosen family and second chances. While some reviewers were mixed on its tonal shifts between party-scene energy and family drama, audiences connected deeply with its emotional core. It's exactly the kind of movie that builds its reputation on word-of-mouth enthusiasm, using the festival circuit to become an indie powerhouse that punches well above its weight class.
Smudge the Blades: The Raunchy Underdog Comedy
Imagine The Mighty Ducks by way of Slap Shot and you've got Smudge the Blades. This raunchy but heartfelt sports comedy follows a down-and-out all-Indigenous hockey team and their Zamboni-driver-turned-coach. It was a surprise hit in the Midnight Madness section, where audience buzz can launch a genre film into the mainstream. While it may not be a traditional awards player, its strong audience scores point to significant commercial potential. Critics noted its familiar underdog formula, but praised its foul-mouthed humor and genuine sense of community. This is the kind of film that might get a lukewarm critical reception but becomes a beloved cult classic passed around by fans for years to come, proving that sometimes the biggest win is simply connecting with your target audience.
The Last Photograph: The Divisive Blockbuster
No film at TIFF divided critics and audiences quite like Zack Snyder's The Last Photograph. First reactions from critics at the premiere were overwhelmingly negative, with many calling it a convoluted and grueling experience. One reviewer even suggested Snyder be put in "directors jail permanently." Yet, in a familiar pattern for the director, audience scores have been significantly higher. Viewers praised its visual style and ambitious, human-focused story, even as critics found it aimless. This disconnect is Snyder's signature. While the film is unlikely to be an awards contender, its strong audience support in the face of critical pans ensures it will be a major topic of conversation and likely find commercial success with his dedicated fanbase. It’s a perfect example of a movie made not for reviewers, but for the people who actually buy the tickets.
