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Listen: American Fiction at TIFF
“American Fiction” Triumphs at Toronto Film Festival, Hinting at Potential Oscar Success
The 2023 Toronto Film Festival has crowned “American Fiction” as the esteemed People’s Choice Award winner.
This scathing satire, directed by Cord Jefferson and starring Jeffrey Wright, aims at the publishing industry’s treatment of serious works by Black writers.
The film tells the story of Thelonious “Monk” Ellison, who uses the pseudonym Sinatra Golden to protest against stereotypes but is shocked when his book, “We’s Lives In Da Ghetto,” becomes a sensational bestseller.
Audiences can anticipate its theatrical release in November.
Since 1978, the People’s Choice Award, voted online by viewers, has often predicted the coveted Best Picture Oscar.
Past winners of this prestigious accolade include “Nomadland,” “Green Book,” “12 Years a Slave,” “The King’s Speech,” “Slumdog Millionaire,” “American Beauty,” and “Chariots of Fire.”
Notably, several of these films went on to secure Best Picture nominations, including last year’s winner “The Fabelmans” and acclaimed titles such as “Belfast,” “Jojo Rabbit,” and “La La Land.”
Joining “American Fiction” on the list of 2023 TIFF Award Winners are outstanding films like “Electra,” “Motherland,” and “Seagrass.”
The festival celebrated the work of BIPOC Canadian filmmakers, showering praise on movies like “Kanaval” and “Tautuktavuk (What We See).” Additionally, Damon D’Oliveira was honored with the Amplify Voices Trailblazer Award for his contributions to the industry.
However, all eyes are on “American Fiction,” this year’s People’s Choice Award champion.
The gripping narrative and stellar performances make it a strong contender for future accolades, including the highly sought-after Best Picture Oscar.