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TIFF 2017: mother! Review

by Noah R. Taylor | September 10, 2017

TIFF 2017: mother! Review.

TIFF 2017 Guide

TIFF 2017: That Shelf’s Festival Guide

by That Shelf | September 6, 2017

The 2017 Toronto International Film Festival is a go – and DorkShelf.com has you covered with reviews, interviews, and more!

Faye Dunaway - Mommie Dearest

Mother’s Day:
Memorable Cinematic Matriarchs

by That Shelf | May 11, 2011

I love mothers; you love mothers. Perhaps not as much as Andy Samberg and Justin Timberlake, but certainly enough to celebrate all the moms out there by assembling a list of some of the most memorable matriarchs in film history

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🚨CONTEST ALERT!🚨 Meet the in-laws... again! Ben Stiller and Robert De Niro return alongside Ariana Grande in FOCKER IN-LAW, where Greg Focker gets a taste of his own medicine as his son brings home a new girlfriend, setting off another round of hilarious family chaos. That Shelf and @universalpicturescanada are giving away tickets to advance screenings of the comedy in Montreal and Toronto on November 23. To enter: 👫 Follow That Shelf. 👫 Like this post 👫 Tell us your all-time fave comedy 👫 Tell which city’s screening you’d want to attend, and 👫 Tag a friend! The contest closes at 11:59 PM ET on Thursday, November 19. Entrants must be a resident of Canada. One entry per person. Winners will be contacted by DM. #FockerInLaw hits theatres on November 25. #contest #giveaway
8 hours ago
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Being Heumann tells the story of disability rights activist Judith Heumann and her fight for equality in the United States during the 1970s. Based on Heumann’s memoir, the film follows her efforts to push the government to enforce Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, culminating in a historic 26-day sit-in in San Francisco that brought together activists and allies demanding change. Led by a breakout performance from Ruth Madeley, Siân Heder’s film is a heartwarming account of collective action and the determination required to challenge systemic barriers. While its by-the-book approach occasionally softens the rebellious spirit of its subject, the strong ensemble and thoughtful portrayal of the disability rights movement make for an entertaining and meaningful story. Ultimately, Being Heumann is a reminder that progress comes from refusing to accept less than equal treatment. 📝 Full review by Rachel West now up on That Shelf (and at the link in our bio).
1 day ago
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2/9

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Fifty years after Rocky became a cinematic classic, Peter Farrelly tells the story behind the making of the film with I Play Rocky, exploring Sylvester Stallone’s determination to bring his vision to the big screen against all odds. In conversation with That Shelf at TIFF, Farrelly discusses the challenges Stallone faced during production, finding Anthony Ippolito to play the iconic actor, the music behind the film, and why he believes this true story of persistence and ambition is especially meaningful today. 📝 Full interview by Shawn Peer now up on That Shelf (and at the link in our bio).
6 days ago
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3/9

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Remembering Sebastián Lelio (1974–2026). One of the most distinctive voices in contemporary Chilean cinema, Sebastián Lelio built an extraordinary body of work exploring identity, desire, faith, freedom, and the complexities of being human. His films often placed women at the centre of their own stories, approaching their experiences with sensitivity, curiosity, and an unwavering sense of humanity. He first gained international recognition with Gloria, a tender and deeply moving portrait of a middle-aged woman rediscovering herself, which earned widespread acclaim and was later remade in English with Julianne Moore. He went on to direct A Fantastic Woman, which made history as the first Chilean film to win the Academy Award for Best International Feature Film. His other notable works include Disobedience, The Wonder, and The Year of the Tiger. Throughout his career, Lelio demonstrated a remarkable ability to move between languages, cultures, and genres while maintaining a distinctive cinematic voice. His films challenged conventions, made room for complicated characters, and invited audiences to see the world from different perspectives. His work leaves an important mark on Chilean cinema and international filmmaking, and his stories will continue to resonate with audiences around the world.
1 week ago
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4/9

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The Only Living Pickpocket in New York follows Harry Lehman, an aging pickpocket struggling to survive in a city that has moved on from cash and the old ways of doing business. When he unknowingly steals a USB key tied to a dangerous criminal operation, Harry finds himself caught in a race against time that forces him to confront his past and the people he has left behind. John Turturro delivers a tender, compelling performance as a man caught between nostalgia and a changing world, with Steve Buscemi and Tatiana Maslany adding to the film’s strong cast. However, an overly predictable plot and underdeveloped character motivations prevent this crime drama from reaching its full potential, despite its evocative New York atmosphere and glimpses of a more compelling story. 📝 Full review by Andrea Miller now up on That Shelf (and at the link in our bio).
2 weeks ago
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5/9

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Wicker follows a lonely Fisherwoman, played by Olivia Colman, who has grown tired of being judged by her medieval village for failing to meet its beauty standards and expectations of womanhood. She asks a local Basketweaver to make her a husband, resulting in a devoted companion made entirely of willow. But as their unconventional romance blossoms, their happiness begins to threaten the village’s established social order. Blending fairy-tale fantasy with raunchy humour and heartfelt romance, the film offers a thoughtful exploration of gender politics, societal expectations, and the freedom to define happiness on your own terms. Colman and Alexander Skarsgård share charming chemistry, while the imaginative craftsmanship and beautiful visuals bring this strange, whimsical story to life. What begins as an absurd premise becomes a surprisingly tender celebration of love beyond convention. 📝 Full review by Rachel West now up on That Shelf (and at the link in our bio).
2 weeks ago
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6/9

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A Talent for Murder follows reclusive author Patricia Highsmith during her final years in Switzerland, where a publishing representative named Edward Ridgeway arrives hoping to convince her to write another Tom Ripley novel. What begins as a battle of wills soon turns into a dangerous game of manipulation, lies, and murder as the two collaborate on a new story. Helen Mirren relishes the chance to play the sharp-tongued, unpredictable author, trading deliciously cutting insults with Alden Ehrenreich in a gripping battle of wits. While the film occasionally loses momentum and its psychological thriller elements could go further, the strong performances, dark humour, and eerie atmosphere make for an entertaining mystery. 📝 Full review by Colin Biggs now up on That Shelf (and at the link in our bio).
2 weeks ago
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7/9

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Rest in peace, Patrick Stewart (1940–2026). A distinguished actor whose career spanned more than six decades, Patrick Stewart brought an unmistakable presence, intelligence, and depth to every role he inhabited. Best known to generations of audiences as Captain Jean-Luc Picard in Star Trek: The Next Generation, he helped define one of science fiction's most beloved characters, carrying that legacy across films, television, and countless adventures throughout the Star Trek universe. He also became an iconic part of the X-Men franchise as Professor Charles Xavier, bringing warmth, wisdom, and humanity to the legendary mutant leader. Beyond these defining roles, his remarkable filmography includes Excalibur, Dune, Robin Hood: Men in Tights, and Green Room. Before becoming a household name on screen, Stewart spent years honing his craft with the Royal Shakespeare Company, building a celebrated stage career that reflected his extraordinary command of language and performance. Equally at home in Shakespearean drama, science fiction, comedy, and animation, he was an actor whose versatility extended far beyond his most recognizable characters. His contributions to theatre, film, and television leave behind an extraordinary legacy. Live long and prosper, Sir Patrick.
2 weeks ago
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8/9

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La Bola Negra weaves together three timelines to explore queer love, identity, and the stories that survive across generations. From a musician navigating love and survival during the Spanish Civil War to a playwright uncovering a forgotten piece of queer history in contemporary Spain, the film connects lives shaped by stigma, loss, and the courage to be true to oneself. With soulful music, a richly interconnected narrative, and outstanding performances led by Guitarricadelafuente and Penélope Cruz, the film becomes a moving tribute to queer artists and the histories that deserve to be remembered. Directors Javier Ambrossi and Javier Calvo build on Federico García Lorca’s unfinished play to create an expansive, deeply felt celebration of LGBTQ+ lives, love, and artistic expression. 📝 Full review by Pat Mullen now up on That Shelf (and at the link in our bio).
3 weeks ago
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9/9

film

Tyler Perry’s The Gospel of Christmas

While the sets, CGI, and story aren't great, the singing is pretty stellar, and the entertainment value is high.
TV

Interview: Blue Lights’ Siân Brooke and Declan Lawn

Siân Brooke and Declan Lawn on the popularity of Blue Lights, filming in Belfast, and what to expect for Constable Grace Ellis in Series 4.
music

La Bola Negra Review: A Swoon-Worthy Masterpiece

La Bola Negra is a sweeping epic pays tribute to lost lives and loves by connecting the stories of gay men across generations.
podcasts

Contra Zoom Pod Episode 347: Celebrating Filipino Cinema Part 2

For Filipino American Heritage Month, Contra Zoom looks at 3 films, including Forgotten Island, Filipiñana, and First Comes Love: Nakabingwit.