TIFF turns 50 this year, and joining us to reflect on its legacy is Cameron Bailey, CEO of the Toronto International Film Festival. On this episode of Table 6ix, Cameron joins us to reflect on TIFF’s journey from a “Festival of Festivals” to a global platform that shapes the way audiences engage with film. He walks us through The TIFF Story in 50 Films, a summer-long retrospective highlighting the moments, controversies, and crowd favourites that built TIFF’s legacy.
We talk about the heated debates behind selecting the 50 films, why The Princess Bride was chosen to open the series, and TIFF’s lasting impact on Toronto’s cultural identity and economy. Cameron also weighs in on the future of film in the TikTok era, the Oscar influence of TIFF’s People’s Choice Award, and how TIFF is connecting with the next generation through its Next Wave Festival.
The episode wraps with a surprise celebration (yes, there’s cake) and a love letter to Toronto you won’t see coming.
The TIFF Story in 50 Films runs all summer at TIFF Lightbox. And don’t miss Downtown Movies in the Park, starting July 9 at David Pecaut Square, featuring six free outdoor screenings with live performances, guest intros, and TIFF’s famous popcorn.