Screens

What: Movie.
When: Fri., Nov. 22
Where: In theatres
Genre: Musical
Why you should watch: After what seems like years of build up — and one celebrity scandal — Part 1 of the big-screen adaptation of Wicked finally hits theatres in November. Directed by Jon M. Chu (Crazy Rich Asians), the film stars Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba and Ariana Grande as Glinda, two unlikely friends who become the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good in the Land of Oz. Based on a Broadway show that’s been running for two decades, Wicked certainly has its following, but will this adaptation resonate with audiences beyond die-hard musical theatre fans?

What: Movie, 98 mins.
When: Fri., Dec. 6
Where: In theatres
Genre: Thriller
Why you should watch: Could the role that finally wins Amy Adams her Oscar be that of a dog? In Nightbitch, directed by Marielle Heller (A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood, Can You Ever Forgive Me?) Adams stars as a frazzled and fed-up stay-at-home mom who begins to suspect that she’s turning into a dog. This biting and slightly surreal take on motherhood has the benefit of an amazing cast and a ridiculous name that’s going to pique interest.

What: Movie, various runtimes
When:First and last Tuesday of November and December
Where: Toronto Public Library branches
Genre: Various
Why you should watch: If there is one institution in this city that works well (last year’s cyberattack notwithstanding), it’s the Toronto Public Library (TPL). Chances are, you don’t live too far from a branch that offers free public screenings this fall. Some standouts include The Last Black Man in San Francisco (2019), on Oct. 24 at the Palmerston branch; the Ken Loach drama The Old Oak (2023), on Nov. 26 at Riverdale; a talk on time travel in the movies by astronomer Tom Vassos on Sept. 25 at the Reference Library; and a screening of the 1942 horror classic Cat People at Don Mills on Oct. 11 (tea will be served). Check the TPL website for screenings in your neighbourhood.

What: Festival
When: Sun., Nov. 13 – Thurs., Nov. 24
Where: In theatres
Genre: Various
Why you should watch: Toronto’s showcase of contemporary Asian cinema is back for its 28th year with features, shorts and events. One of the city’s most vibrant and community-oriented festivals, it features expert panels, talent labs, pitch competitions and, of course, incredible films you won’t be able to see anywhere else.

What: Movie, 103 mins.
When: Now
Where: Netflix
Genre: Drama
Why you should watch: The thoughtful, intimate drama His Three Daughters was a hit at this year’s Toronto International Film Festival, and you don’t have to wait another year to see it. Directed by Azazel Jacobs and starring Natasha Lyonne, Elizabeth Olsen and Carrie Coon, the film follows three sisters who reunite in their father’s home as he lives out his last days. Nuanced, challenging and deeply felt, His Three Daughters could very well be the best thing to appear on Netflix all year.

What: Series, 4 episodes, 60 mins
When: Now
Where: CBC Gem
Genre: Documentary
Why you should watch: One of the most anticipated Canadian titles to stream this year is Tanya Talaga’s piercing and personal documentary series The Knowing. The series follows Talaga as she investigates the disappearance of a family member and examines the history and ongoing legacy of the residential school system. The Knowing thoughtfully blends lyrical narration, archival footage and first-hand experience to tell a wide-ranging story of survival and solidarity. And if you still haven’t got your documentary fix, check out Paid in Full: The Battle For Black Music by Idris and Sabrina Elba, now steaming.

What: Series, 22 Episodes, 22 mins
When: Now
Where: Paramount +
Genre: Comedy
Why you should watch: The fourth season of beloved comedy Abbott Elementary returns after its Emmy-winning and record-breaking third season. This mockumentary — set in an underfunded, elementary school in Philadelphia with predominantly Black students and staff — is heartwarming and addictive, judging by the rabid fans it has amassed over its short run. If you need something a little more hopeful this fall, this is your show.

What: Series, 6 Episodes.
When: November
Where: Crave
Genre: Sci-Fi
Why you should watch: Like it or not, we have hit the TV spinoff of a film reboot era. Denis Villeneuve’s Dune films were massive hits but only covered a small section of Frank Herbert’s expansive Dune universe. This fall, HBO Max premieres a series dedicated to the Bene Gesserit, a powerful clan of female soothsayers that manipulate the forces of the imperium from behind the scenes. Starring Emily Watson, Mark Strong and Olivia Williams, the series traces the origins of the sect. A teaser trailer promises Villeneuve’s signature muted palette and grand scale.