Shepherds, directed by filmmaker Sophie Deraspe, won the award for best Canadian film at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), presented Sunday on the last day of the popular seventh art festival.
Published at 2:51 p.m.
In its statement, the jury notes that among the many magnificent films presented this year, “ Shepherds (Shepherds) stood out for its electrifying performances and stunning world-building that gave us a window into a harrowing journey of ambition, idealism and what it means to live a full life.” This is the second time the director has won the honor at TIFF. She previously won the award for Antigonein 2019.
In addition, the prize for the best Canadian discovery went to A universal language (Universal Language), by Montreal-based Manitoban director Matthew Rankin.
“This film boldly charts its own path through a poetic exploration of the heart, home and human connection,” the jury said. The film was chosen to represent Canada in the Oscar race for Best International Feature Film.
The Festival also presented its People’s Choice Awards. The public rewarded two feature-length fiction films: The Substanceby Coralie Fargeat; and The Life of Chuckby Mike Flanagan. The Audience Award for Best Documentary went to the film The Tragically Hip : No Dress Rehearsal, directed by Mike Downie, the older brother of Gord Downie, the late leader of the Kingston rock group.
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