TIFF 2024: Sad Jokes Movie Trailer
If you’re into films that mix humor with heartfelt drama, mark your calendar for November 12, 2024. Fabian Stumm’s latest film, Sad Jokes, is hitting the screens, and it promises to be a unique blend of comedy and poignancy. This German tragicomedy, making its North American debut at the Toronto International Film Festival, is set to stir up quite a buzz.
What’s the Movie About?
Sad Jokes revolves around Joseph, a gay film director played by the multi-talented Fabian Stumm, who also directed and co-wrote the film. Joseph is navigating the tumultuous waters of co-parenting his young son, Pino, with his close friend Sonya (Haley Louise Jones). The plot takes a turn when Sonya is hospitalized for depression, leaving Joseph to juggle his role as a parent with his artistic ambitions and personal struggles.
The film is set in contemporary Berlin, and Stumm crafts a narrative that is both deeply personal and universally relatable. As Joseph wrestles with his creative process and the fallout from a recent breakup, he finds himself balancing the demands of parenting and his own artistic aspirations. The result is a film that blends the touching with the absurd, offering a candid look at modern queer life and the trials of artistic perseverance.
Why You Should Watch It
1. A Unique Storytelling Approach: Sad Jokes is not just a film; it’s a series of autofictional vignettes that range from the touching to the downright absurd. Stumm’s approach to storytelling is both innovative and reflective, drawing on influences from classic comedic and dramatic cinema while adding a fresh, modern twist.
2. Stellar Performances: Stumm himself leads the cast, bringing a compelling mix of vulnerability and wit to his role. Haley Louise Jones, who plays Sonya, delivers a powerful performance that anchors the film’s emotional core. Supporting performances from a talented ensemble, including Jonas Dassler and Ulrica Flach, add depth and nuance to the narrative.
3. A Blend of Humor and Depth: The film’s title, Sad Jokes, hints at its dual nature. The humor is often dark and philosophical, probing the boundaries between comedy and tragedy. Stumm’s ability to balance these elements is a testament to his skill as a filmmaker and storyteller.
4. Artistic and Cultural Resonance: Stumm’s background in drama and his previous works, including the acclaimed Bones and Names, have set the stage for this film’s introspective and artistically ambitious narrative. Sad Jokes continues this tradition, offering a thoughtful exploration of the challenges faced by modern artists and the queer community.
Where and When to Watch
- North American Premiere: November 12, 2024, at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF).
- Language: The film is presented in German, English, Swedish, and Italian, with English subtitles available.
Showtimes
For those eager to catch Sad Jokes at TIFF, here are the showtimes:
- Thursday, September 5
Scotiabank Theatre Toronto
Press & Industry Screening: 3:05 PM EDT - Monday, September 9
Scotiabank Theatre Toronto
Public Screening: 12:15 PM EDT - Tuesday, September 10
Scotiabank Theatre Toronto
Public Screening: 8:10 PM EDT
Final Thoughts
Sad Jokes is shaping up to be a standout feature in the festival circuit. With its blend of tragicomic elements and its insightful look into contemporary queer life and artistic struggle, it’s a film that promises to engage and resonate with a diverse audience. Don’t miss your chance to experience this unique cinematic journey.
For more information on screenings and tickets, visit the Toronto International Film Festival’s website. If you’re in the mood for a film that combines humor with heart, Sad Jokes is definitely one to watch.
