The Toronto Film Festival has expanded its lineup for the 2023 edition by adding a gala world premiere for the concert documentary “Lil Nas X: Long Live Montero.” The documentary captures the journey of rapper Lil Nas X on his first global tour and will be introduced by the Grammy-winning artist himself. Directed by Carlos López Estrada and Zac Manuel, the film follows Lil Nas X, also known as Montero Hill, for over 60 days as he discusses his career and his identity as a Black and queer performer in the pop world.
Produced by RadicalMedia in association with Sony Music Entertainment, Columbia Records, and Museum & Crane, “Lil Nas X: Long Live Montero” is a diary-style film that showcases the extraordinary power of self-expression, music, and identity. Cameron Bailey, the CEO of the Toronto Film Festival, describes the documentary as a triumphant ode to these themes.
Booking Lil Nas X and his concert tour film into Roy Thomson Hall is a strategic move for the Toronto Film Festival. Due to the ongoing WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes, many A-list stars will not be able to attend the festival to promote their films. These strikes primarily affect films associated with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers, including major studios and streaming platforms. By securing a high-profile artist like Lil Nas X, the festival ensures it will still attract attention and excitement.
The director of the documentary, Carlos López Estrada, is no stranger to critical acclaim. With previous credits including “Blindspotting,” “Summertime,” and “Raya and the Last Dragon,” López Estrada has proven his talent in both film and music videos. He has directed music videos for popular musicians such as Billie Eilish, Thundercat and Flying Lotus, Katy Perry, and Carly Rae Jepsen.
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The Toronto Film Festival, now in its 48th edition, is recognized as one of the most prestigious film festivals in the world. It provides a platform for filmmakers to showcase their work and attracts industry professionals, critics, and film enthusiasts from around the globe. This year’s festival is scheduled to run from September 7 to 17, offering a diverse selection of films from various genres and countries.
“Lil Nas X: Long Live Montero” adds another exciting element to the festival’s lineup, bringing the energy and charisma of the Grammy-winning rapper to the big screen. With its focus on the power of self-expression and identity, the documentary aligns with the festival’s commitment to showcase diverse voices and stories. Lil Nas X’s journey as a Black and queer artist navigating the music industry serves as a powerful and inspiring narrative for audiences to experience.
The addition of a concert documentary to the Toronto Film Festival’s lineup highlights the festival’s dedication to incorporating different art forms and exploring the intersection of music and film. By showcasing the behind-the-scenes process of Lil Nas X’s tour and capturing the energy of his live performances, the documentary allows audiences to immerse themselves in the artist’s world and gain a deeper understanding of his creative process.
As the Toronto Film Festival continues to push boundaries and present innovative storytelling, “Lil Nas X: Long Live Montero” stands as an anticipated highlight of the 2023 edition. The film provides a unique opportunity to witness the rise of a global music superstar, shedding light on the challenges and triumphs of his journey. It serves as a reminder of the power of art and self-expression, inspiring audiences to embrace their own identities and follow their dreams.
With its gala world premiere at the Toronto Film Festival, “Lil Nas X: Long Live Montero” is poised to captivate audiences and further solidify the festival’s reputation as a platform for groundbreaking cinema. As fans and industry professionals eagerly await its premiere, the documentary promises to be a must-see for music and film enthusiasts alike.
