Aziz Ansari's feature directing debut, " Good Fortune," wasn't meant to be his first effort as a filmmaker: That would've been "Being Mortal," called off mid-shoot in 2022 amid accusations of misconduct against Bill Murray. So it was inevitable that alongside the TIFF premiere of " Good Fortune," a comedy starring Keanu Reeves and "Being Mortal" star Seth Rogen, he'd have to address the canceled film. And it turns out, they share thematic DNA.
Maude Apatow is known for far more than being the daughter of iconic actor Leslie Mann and legendary writer/director Judd Apatow. She's made a huge name for herself as an actress over the past decade or so, having starred in huge movies and shows like Euphoria and, most recently, One of Them Days. But you might not know that Maude just made her directorial debut - yep, she's following in her dad's footsteps!
TIFF was once a global powerhouse and automatic stop for the year's major films. Not so much anymore; lots to unpack here, but among items to discuss is their ticketing website, which functions with the speed and functionality of a late '80s queue in gerontocratic Romania; a festival that (in partnership with Ticketmaster!) allows scalpers to buy up every single seat as fast as possible and resell them for hundreds of (devalued Canadian) dollars exudes both desperation and "you get what you deserve" karma.
Leung's observations come as TIFF, long considered the people's festival because screenings are open to the public, is preparing to host its 50th edition next week. This year's festival will see the world premieres of buzzy films like Guillermo del Toro's rendition of Frankenstein and the third instalment of the Knives Out series, and welcome stars as prolific as Ryan Reynolds and Dwayne (The Rock) Johnson.
"I want to apologize for any hurt, frustration, or disappointment that our communication about the film has caused, and for any mischaracterizations that have taken root. We're working now and we will be for a while to clarify things and to repair relationships," Bailey said, speaking at a pre-festival event. Bailey had apologized in a previous statement, but this was his first public appearance since the disinvitation made headlines last week.