Toronto After Dark Film Festival 2024

Every fall, the Toronto After Dark Film Festival showcases a diverse selection of feature and short films from Asia, Europe, and North America. This year, the festival is set to return for its 18th annual edition from October 16-20. Known for a diverse selection of new horror, thriller, and sci-fi films, the festival promises five nights of cinematic excitement at the Scotiabank Theatre, located in the heart of Toronto’s Entertainment District.

Activities and Highlights

According to the organizers, the festival will feature around 40 films, including both feature-length and short films. Attendees can look forward to a variety of activities beyond just film screenings. Q&A sessions with filmmakers provide an opportunity for the audience to engage directly with creators, while the "Pub After Dark" event allows fans to socialize with filmmakers in a more relaxed setting.

Ticket Prices and Parking

Tickets for individual screenings are expected to be priced at $15.99, with a discounted rate of $13.99 available for those purchasing a multipack series bundle. The festival also offers an All-Access Pass for $109, which includes priority entry to all screenings and a significant discount compared to regular ticket prices. Parking is available at various lots around the Scotiabank Theatre, with public transportation options also easily accessible.

History of the Festival

The Toronto After Dark Film Festival was founded in 2006. The inaugural event was held at the Bloor Cinema, featuring films such as "Special" directed by Hal Haberman and Jeremy Passmore, and "Retribution" by Kiyoshi Kurosawa. The action-horror film "Behind the Mask: The Rise of Leslie Vernon" won the festival’s first Audience Award. Initially attracting 4,350 attendees, the festival has since expanded, now drawing over 5,000 film enthusiasts annually.

Evolution and Impact

Over the years, the festival has evolved to become one of the premier genre film festivals in the world. According to the organizers, the festival's reputation for high-quality programming and its supportive community environment have contributed to its success. It has been voted runner-up for Best Film Festival in Toronto by local audiences and recognized as one of the top genre film festivals globally by filmmakers.