Black Bear partner Michael Heimler is having a busy fall festival circuit as he executive-produces a number of notable projects. Some of these include Netflix awards contender “Nyad,” Sony’s “Dumb Money,” and the sales title “Sing Sing.” As he prepares for premieres at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), Heimler took the time to share his thoughts and experiences with The Hollywood Reporter (THR).
TIFF audiences are known for their incredible enthusiasm and appreciation for films. Standing ovations are a common occurrence, demonstrating the genuine passion and support that Canadian audiences bring to the festival. Heimler considers this overwhelming positive response to be a Canadian trait and one of the highlights of the festival experience.
When Heimler finds himself in Toronto, he makes it a point to visit sports bars during the Sunday or Monday night of TIFF. He enjoys being surrounded by a group of present and ex-New Yorkers who have been gathering together for the past decade to watch the Jets play. Unfortunately, their first game of the year often ends in disappointment, but the camaraderie and shared experience make it worth it for Heimler.
While Heimler enjoys the festival atmosphere in Toronto, there is one aspect he actively avoids—the rush line to get into a screening. The excitement and anticipation can sometimes lead to long waits and disappointment if a film reaches capacity. Instead, Heimler prefers to plan his schedule in advance and secure tickets to the screenings he wants to see, avoiding the stress and uncertainty of the rush line.
Related Post
When asked about his favorite Canadian director or talent, Heimler praises the incredible team at Elevation Pictures. He considers them to run the best distribution shop in town, showcasing their talent and expertise in bringing films to audiences. Their contributions to the Canadian film industry make them stand out to Heimler.
One thing that Heimler appreciates about Toronto is the audience’s reactions to movies, even those that may not be considered great. Canadian viewers have a genuine enthusiasm for cinema and are often more forgiving when it comes to certain aspects of filmmaking. This positive and supportive environment contributes to the overall festival experience.
When it comes to traveling, Heimler makes sure to bring his phone, but there are a few items he chooses to leave behind. He opts not to travel with a portable phone charger and airpods, perhaps preferring to disconnect and fully immerse himself in the festival atmosphere without any distractions.
Reflecting on past experiences, Heimler mentions a memorable star encounter in Toronto. He is torn between the notable sighting of former Toronto mayor Rob Ford in 2013 and the moment when Taylor Swift caused a stir by shutting down King Street during last year’s festival. Both encounters left a lasting impression on Heimler, showcasing the excitement and unpredictability of the festival.
When asked to choose between Ryan Gosling and Ryan Reynolds, Heimler diplomatically and humorously declines to comment. He considers both actors to be great, celebrating their respective contributions to the entertainment industry.
Heimler suggests that visitors to Toronto should always make time for a meal at the somewhat hidden Chinese restaurant inside the Doubletree hotel. However, he recently learned that the restaurant has closed, forcing him to start a new tradition. This highlights the ever-changing nature of Toronto and the need to adapt and explore new experiences.
On the other hand, Heimler advises against attempting to cross King Street at the same time as Taylor Swift. This humorous comment reflects the excitement and chaos that can ensue when a famous celebrity is in town, disrupting the usual flow of the city.
As Michael Heimler navigates the fall festival circuit and prepares for premieres at TIFF, he shares his insights and experiences. From appreciating the kindness of Canadian audiences to avoiding rush lines and memorable star encounters, Heimler’s perspective adds depth to the festival experience. With a touch of humor and admiration for the Canadian film industry, he showcases the unique and vibrant atmosphere that TIFF brings to Toronto.
