9th Toronto International Nollywood Film Festival (TINFF)
September 6th - 13th, 2025
Closing Gala Awards. September 13th, 2025
Celebrating Diversity and Inclusion Through Film
Welcome to the Toronto International Nollywood Film Festival (TINFF), a globally recognized platform that celebrates and promotes diverse cinema, with a special focus on Nollywood, one of the largest film industries in the world. Each year, TINFF brings together filmmakers, artists, and storytellers from across the globe to showcase diverse stories that reflect the vibrant cultures and rich traditions of various communities around the world. TINFF is proud to be listed on IMDb, affirming its growing international reputation as a key player in the global film industry.
FREE IN-PERSON SCREENINGS
SECURE YOUR TICKET NOW!
Experience a powerful lineup of international films at the Toronto International Nollywood Film Festival (TINFF) 2025. All screenings are free and open to the public. Screenings will take place from September 6 to 12 at York Woods Library Theatre, Fairview Library Theatres, and Afroglobal TV Studio. Click the button below to secure your free ticket and join us in celebrating global storytelling through film.
"Broken Courage" Opening Film -
York Woods Library Theater, September 6
Broken Courage, a Canadian film directed by David Peck and Nathanael Draper, explores themes of memory, history, and reconciliation. The film follows Suon Rottana, a former Khmer Rouge rebel, Cambodian soldier, prisoner of war, and landmine amputee, on his quest for redemption. Suon, deeply affected by his past trauma, reflects on his journey of healing and sharing his story. Now a tour guide at war memorial museums near Angkor Wat in Siem Reap, Cambodia, he uses his experiences to connect with others and help heal wounds of the past. The film highlights the power of stories in healing and the interconnectedness of personal histories.
"The Waiter" Closing Film
York Woods Library Theater, September 12
The Waiter, directed by Toka McBaror and executive produced by Ayo Makun, follows Akpos, a man struggling with life's challenges, who takes a temporary job as a waiter at the Crystal Hotel. The event being hosted is one organized by the Minister of Poverty Alleviation, where a scheme to aid the underprivileged is set to be launched. As Akpos navigates the complexities of his role, the film delves into themes of social disparity and the lengths people will go to improve their circumstances. With Ayo Makun starring as Akpos, the film combines humor and drama to explore deeper social issues.
Featured Film: The Last Witness
York Woods Library Theater, September 12
The Last Witness, directed by Piotr Szkopiak, is a gripping political thriller based on the true events of the Katyn Massacre in 1940. Set in post-WW2 England, the film follows Stephen Underwood (Alex Pettyfer), an ambitious journalist who uncovers a series of suicides among Polish soldiers. Eager to investigate, Stephen meets Colonel Janusz Pietrowski, a liaison officer for the resettlement of Polish troops under British command. However, his encounter with Pietrowski leaves him unsettled, propelling him into a dangerous investigation. As Stephen digs deeper, he uncovers a shocking conspiracy tied to the execution of 22,000 Polish soldiers and civilians by Stalin's secret police. The film highlights the untold horrors of this historical tragedy and the cost of uncovering the truth.
Canada Black and Diversity Film (CBDF) Market Summit
Experience the Festival, Market Summit, and Gala through the TINFF All - Access Pass
Join us from September 6–13, 2025 in Toronto & Brampton, Canada for a full week of screenings, panels, networking, and red carpet events
Brampton International Nollywood Film Festival (BINFF)
Launched as an extension of TINFF, the Brampton International Nollywood Film Festival (BINFF) is an annual event in Brampton, Canada, that unites filmmakers, artists, and industry experts from around the globe. The festival features live screenings, screenwriting competitions, and awards ceremonies, aiming to promote cinematic experiences and connect local communities. BINFF also serves as a creative hub, offering workshops, masterclasses, mentorships, and development programs to support local talent. The upcoming BINFF is scheduled for September 11–13, 2025.
Join industry leaders, filmmakers, distributors, and creatives at the CBDFM Summit for an exclusive networking and business opportunity. Gain insights, connect with global stakeholders, and experience the prestigious Gala Awards with red carpet & media coverage!
The International Comedy and Art Film Festival (TICAFF)
The International Comedy and Art Film Festival, TICAFF, is a newly introduced festival dedicated to celebrating humour, creativity, and artistic expression in cinema. As part of TINFF’s week-long programs, TICAFF is scheduled for September 12, 2025. This event will showcase comedic films, stand-up performances, and visual arts, providing a unique platform for creatives to explore storytelling through humor and artistic vision.
TINFF 2025 and TICAFF 2025 nomination lists are out now. Click here for TINFF and here for TICAFF
How TINFF Brings Value To You
TINFF showcases a variety of films, from Nollywood to Hollywood and beyond. Our festival includes feature films, short films, documentaries, animations, and experimental projects that highlight cultural diversity and powerful storytelling.
As both a Telefilm Canada Qualifying Festival and a Canadian Screen Award (CSA) Qualifying Festival, TINFF is committed to recognizing and elevating outstanding talent in film. Our festival provides an essential platform for filmmakers to gain recognition, connect with industry professionals, and reach a wider audience. Beyond film screenings, TINFF offers networking events, workshops, and discussions that foster a community dedicated to advancing the art of storytelling. Whether you’re a filmmaker, actor, or film enthusiast, TINFF is where culture, creativity, and cinema intersect to create lasting impact.
The Cinematic Box Distribution Canada
The Cinematic Box Distribution Canada is an approved Canada Media Fund (CMF) distribution company specializing in global film distribution. This is a significant milestone, making it the only West African—and possibly the only African-Canadian—distribution company with CMF eligibility. The Cinematic Box is focused on elevating underrepresented voices, primarily from Black, African, Caribbean, and diaspora communities. It aims to promote authentic, culturally rich storytelling to global audiences through strategic distribution channels, prestigious film festivals, and digital platforms.
Moments from TINFF 2024 September 8 - 15, 2024
The TINFF Awards Ceremony. September 15th, 2024.
The TINFF Gala. September 14th, 2024
TINFF Fashion
Get Involved
Whether you’re a filmmaker submitting your work, an attendee eager to experience world-class cinema, or a brand looking to support the festival, there are many ways to participate in TINFF. Don’t miss out on being part of this incredible celebration of creativity and culture!
Looking for a platform to showcase your work? Submit your project today! Join our community and be part of a movement that celebrates culture and storytelling.
Join us and experience new moments at TINFF 2025 September 6 - 13, 2025
TINFF 2024 Winner "Ray of Hope" Qualifies for the 97th Academy Awards - Toronto, Canada — November 24, 2024.
The Toronto International Nollywood Film Festival (TINFF) proudly announces that its 2024 Best Documentary winner, Ray of Hope, is officially in contention for the 97th Academy Awards. The multiple award-winning documentary has been included in the Academy’s list of eligible films for the Documentary Feature category, marking a significant milestone in its journey.
"Ray of Hope," directed by renowned Canadian filmmakers Ryan Singh and Nikila Cole, is one of two films from the eighth edition of the 2024 TINFF chosen as an official Oscars contender. Both selections further cement the TINFF festival's reputation as a global standard of cinematic excellence.
It is honoured to play a role in amplifying the voices and visions of outstanding filmmakers like those behind Ray of Hope.
TINFF Film Academy (TFA)
Empowering the Next Generation of Filmmakers
The TINFF Film Academy (TFA) is designed to nurture emerging talent by providing comprehensive training, mentorship, and hands-on experience in filmmaking. Whether you're an aspiring director, actor, screenwriter, or editor, TFA offers courses that will help you build the skills needed to thrive in the film industry. Our academy offers mentorship, training, and hands-on workshops in filmmaking, acting, screenwriting, and editing. This program helps aspiring filmmakers develop the skills needed to excel in the industry.
TINFF Partner Festivals and Organizations
TINFF Over the Years
Partners
Partners
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Need assistance? For general inquiries about TINFF, contact us here or at tinffestival@gmail.com