TIFF 2025: To defend the wavelengths, the incredibly shrinking film festival program
TIFF’s Wavelengths program, known for its avant-garde and experimental cinema, is facing a challenging time as the festival celebrates its 50th anniversary. This specialized section, named after Michael Snow’s Landmark Experimental Short film, is on the verge of being forced into early retirement.
Dedicated to showcasing the art of cinema that goes beyond mainstream conventions, Wavelengths has built a loyal following over the years. With its Shorts programs attracting enthusiasts from around the world, tickets for these unique screenings are in high demand. The program’s curators, currently Andréa Picard and Jesse Cumming, have earned respect from both audiences and filmmakers for their thoughtful curation.
Despite its reputation for showcasing boundary-pushing cinema, Wavelengths has seen a reduction in the number of screenings over the years. This year’s lineup features fewer functions, shorts programs, and installations compared to previous editions. The shift towards prioritizing commercially viable films and world premieres has marginalized programs like Wavelengths, which focus on quality over box office success.
However, the remaining selections in this year’s Wavelengths program offer a diverse range of cinematic experiences. From post-apocalyptic landscapes to intimate documentaries, each film presents a unique perspective on the medium. Notable works include Lav Diaz’s epic portrait of Portuguese explorer Magellan and Abbas Kiarostami’s thought-provoking Dry Leaf, shot entirely on a mobile phone.
The program’s thematic focus on history, politics, and personal narratives adds depth to the lineup, with filmmakers exploring archives and memory in innovative ways. Short films also play a significant role in the program, showcasing a diverse range of styles and subjects.
As TIFF navigates its 50th year, there is an opportunity to re-evaluate the importance of programs like Wavelengths in shaping the festival’s identity. By embracing the spirit of cinematic independence and artistic experimentation, TIFF can ensure that programs like Wavelengths continue to thrive in the years to come.
This article was originally published in The Globe and Mail.
