The holidays are almost here: a slower rhythm settles in, the nights get longer, and it finally feels acceptable to spend hours wrapped in a blanket watching something incredible. TIFF’s 50th anniversary this year was packed with world premieres, unforgettable performances and global stars. If you missed the magic, this is the perfect moment to dive in.

Here are 10 standout TIFF films (or shows) that deserve a place on your holiday watchlist, complete with star power, prestige directors and that unmistakable TIFF energy.

1. Roofman

Directed by Derek Cianfrance. Starring Channing Tatum, Kirsten Dunst, LaKeith Stanfield and Juno Temple.

Roofman was one of the most talked about Gala Presentations at TIFF this year. Based on the unbelievable real story of Jeffrey Manchester, the film blends tension, charm and emotional weight as Tatum portrays a criminal whose charisma made him a legend. Kirsten Dunst and Derek Cianfrance add depth and realism, making this a textured and gripping watch. It is fast-paced, surprising and full of heart beneath the grit. If you want a thriller with emotional punch, this is your holiday pick.

2. Christy

Directed by David Michôd. Starring Sydney Sweeney, Ben Foster, Merritt Wever and Katy O’Brian.

When Christy premiered at TIFF this year, audiences were captivated by Sydney Sweeney’s transformative performance as boxing icon Christy Martin. The real Christy Martin attended the premiere, adding emotional resonance to an already powerful story. Director David Michôd brings honesty, tension and striking visuals to the screen. If you want an inspiring, raw and deeply human film this season, Christy will stay with you.

3. Hedda

Directed by Nia DaCosta. Starring Tessa Thompson and Imogen Poots.

Hedda reimagines Henrik Ibsen’s classic play Hedda Gabler through a contemporary lens. Tessa Thompson commands the screen with emotional sharpness, while Nia DaCosta’s direction transforms the psychological drama into a stylish, haunting character study. This is prestige cinema designed for quiet nights, thoughtful moods and viewers who crave layered storytelling.

4. Black Rabbit

Created by Zach Baylin and Kate Susman. Starring Jude Law and Jason Bateman.

Set in the world of a chic New York restaurant, Black Rabbit delivers a stylish mix of family conflict, ambition and secrets. Jude Law is at his charismatic best, and Jason Bateman delivers sharp direction coupled with a grounded performance. This show feels sleek, modern and addictive in its pacing. If you want something dramatic with edge and sophistication, this will hit the spot.

5. Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery

Directed by Rian Johnson. Starring Daniel Craig, Josh Brolin, Mila Kunis, Jeremy Renner, Kerry Washington and Glenn Close.

The third installment in the Knives Out saga premiered at TIFF to huge anticipation. Daniel Craig returns as detective Benoit Blanc in a mystery that is wittier, stranger and even more stylish than the films before. Rian Johnson expands the world with a sharply written ensemble and brilliant twists, paired with another star-studded cast. This is the ultimate group watch for the holidays. Bring snacks, invite friends and enjoy every clue-filled moment.

6. John Candy: I Like Me

Directed by Colin Hanks. 

This heartfelt tribute to Canadian legend John Candy had TIFF audiences laughing and crying in equal measure, honouring Candy’s warmth and comedic genius. Directed by Colin Hanks, the film features candid testimonies from John Candy’s friends and family, including Steve Martin, Tom Hanks and Catherine O’Hara. It is the perfect holiday watch: emotional and full of genuine meaning.

7. Swiped

Directed by Rachel Lee Goldenberg. Starring Lily James, Dan Stevens and Jackson White.

This film is loosely based on the story of Whitney Wolfe Herd, co-founder of Tinder and founder of Bumble. Lily James delivers a captivating performance: she’s sharp, funny, occasionally awkward, yet always resilient. Her character is truly admirable for her strength in overcoming online harassment and gender discrimination in the male-dominated tech world. Her challenges ultimately become the inspiration behind Bumble, a platform designed to create a safer online space for women. A fun and meaningful film to watch this holiday season.

8. Frankenstein

Directed by Guillermo del Toro. Starring Oscar Isaac, Jacob Elordi and Mia Goth.

Widely considered as one of the best films this year, Guillermo del Toro’s long-awaited reimagining of Frankenstein premiered to rave reviews. Jacob Elordi delivers a deeply emotional performance as the Creature, while Mia Goth brings sharp, haunting energy. As always, Oscar Isaac and Christoph Waltz shine in their performances. Del Toro combines Gothic visuals with intimate character work. This is atmospheric, romantic and visually breathtaking. Save it for a night when you want something dark and beautiful.

9. Sentimental Value

Directed by Joachim Trier. Starring Stellan Skarsgård Elle Fanning.

Sentimental Value is tender, witty and full of emotional resonance. Stellan Skarsgård and Elle Fanning deliver outstanding performances in this film that won a Grand Prix at this year’s Cannes festival. Sentimental Value portrays the variety of repercussions of a once-great filmmaker’s effort to recapture his past glory. This is a reflective holiday watch that feels personal and quietly powerful.

10. Couture

Directed by Alice Winocour. Starring Angelina Jolie and Louis Garrel.

For all the fashion aficionados, this is a must-see for 2025. One of TIFF’s most anticipated releases that was completely sold out, Couture is set in the Parisian fashion industry, weaving together issues of gender, culture and parenting pressures. As expected, Jolie shines in the complexity of the character and her performance, while the film benefits from an excellent supporting cast.

From thrillers to dramas, from biopics to mysteries, TIFF delivered another spectacular year. The holidays are the perfect moment to sink into these stories and experience what you missed.

With files from Hannah Yakobi and Darina Granik.

Photography by Hannah Yakobi and courtesy of TIFF.