TIFF 2024: The Best (With Movie Trailer)
When you think of a bodybuilder, strength is likely the first word that comes to mind. But in The Best, a new short film directed by Ian Bawa, we’re reminded that even the strongest among us face moments of vulnerability. Set to debut at TIFF 2024, this 10-minute character study offers a powerful exploration of grief and self-doubt through the lens of a South Asian bodybuilder whose confidence is shaken by loss.
What’s The Best About?
At its core, The Best is about more than just physical strength — it’s about the emotional endurance we need when faced with life’s toughest challenges. As grief consumes the protagonist, waves of doubt threaten to tear down the walls he’s built around his confidence and identity as a bodybuilder. This short but deeply impactful film captures the tension between maintaining an exterior of physical power while grappling with emotional fragility beneath the surface.
Bawa’s direction offers an intimate look at this duality, pulling the audience into the mind of a man who seems to have it all together but is on the verge of breaking down. It’s a bold exploration of masculinity, identity, and the quiet struggles we often hide from the world.
Why You Should Watch It:
- A Unique Perspective on Grief: Grief can be overwhelming, no matter how strong you appear. The Best sheds light on how different people cope with loss in unexpected ways, especially when it’s someone whose entire identity is built around being “the best.”
- Insightful Commentary on South Asian Masculinity: Bawa offers a thoughtful portrayal of a South Asian man navigating both his cultural expectations and the pressures of his personal world. It’s a story that feels specific yet deeply universal.
- A Visual Feast: With stunning cinematography and attention to detail, The Best immerses you in the world of bodybuilding while balancing moments of quiet reflection and raw emotion.
Part of an Exciting TIFF Lineup
The Best is playing as part of a diverse program of short films at TIFF 2024, featuring an array of stories that explore everything from the pressures of beauty standards in On a Sunday at Eleven to the quiet revelations of adolescence in Out for Ice Cream. Whether you’re a fan of gripping dramas or heartfelt animations, this lineup has something for everyone.
When and Where to Catch It:
You can watch The Best at these screenings during TIFF 2024:
- Monday, September 9: Scotiabank Theatre Toronto – 6:45 pm
- Tuesday, September 10: Scotiabank Theatre Toronto (Press & Industry) – 9:40 am
- Friday, September 13: Scotiabank Theatre Toronto – 9:15 pm
Don’t miss out on this bold and insightful short film that will leave you reflecting on strength, vulnerability, and the many faces of grief. The Best is sure to be one of those TIFF gems that resonates long after the festival wraps up!
Reference:
