TIFF's at a turning point — but how will the film festival's new focus on dealmaking affect fans?

The 51st edition of the Toronto International Film Festival sees a significant shift as TIFF aims to become a hub for movie dealmaking instead of just showcasing world premieres. This pivot comes as other festivals have started to steal the spotlight for major film debuts. The festival's new focus, alongside rising ticket prices, raises questions about whether TIFF can maintain its reputation as a must-attend event for industry tastemakers and fans alike. This change could have long-term implications for how audiences and professionals engage with the film industry.