TIFF 2024 to Open with Ben Stiller's 'Nutcrackers', Close with Rebel Wilson's 'The Deb'

David Gordon Green’s comedy ‘Nutcrackers,’ starring Ben Stiller, will open the 2024 Toronto Film Festival, with a premiere on September 5. Rebel Wilson’s directorial debut ‘The Deb’ will close the festival. These choices highlight TIFF's tradition of showcasing mainstream crowd-pleasers.

David Gordon Green's much-anticipated comedy, 'Nutcrackers,' featuring Ben Stiller, will inaugurate the 2024 Toronto Film Festival on September 5, as reported by The Hollywood Reporter. This marks Stiller's first lead role since his 2017 performances in 'Brad's Status' and 'The Meyerowitz Stories.'

'Nutcrackers,' penned by Leland Douglas, tells the story of Mike (Stiller), a diligent worker who travels to rural Ohio to care for his four nephews following their parents' tragic deaths. Through the ensuing chaos of farm life, Mike discovers a newfound sense of home with the children. The film, also starring Linda Cardellini, Edi Patterson, Tim Heidecker, and Toby Huss, will have its grand red carpet premiere at Roy Thompson Hall.

The festival will conclude with Rebel Wilson's directorial debut, 'The Deb,' based on the hit Australian musical. Starring Natalie Abbott, the film follows Taylah Simpkins, a farm girl who sees the Debutante Ball as her chance to transform her life. This year's lineup underscores Toronto's tradition of showcasing popular, relatable films, said Anita Lee, TIFF's chief programming officer.

(With inputs from agencies.)