Siân Heder’s Being Heumann to open @TIFF 2026

The Toronto International Film Festival has officially kicked off the road to its 51st edition by unveiling its first three Gala Presentations, led by Siân Heder‘s Being Heumann as the prestigious Opening Night Film. Making its World Premiere on September 10 at Roy Thomson Hall, the Apple Original drama chronicles the extraordinary life of disability rights pioneer Judith “Judy” Heumann, whose tireless advocacy helped transform accessibility legislation and inspired generations around the world. Following the Academy Award-winning success of CODA, Heder returns with an uplifting true story starring Ruth Madeley alongside Mark Ruffalo, Dylan O’Brien, Daniel Durant, Ray Fisher, and Madeline Delp.

Joining Being Heumann in the festival’s first Gala announcement are two highly anticipated World Premieres. Academy Award winner Cynthia Erivo takes center stage in Prima Facie, director Susanna White‘s adaptation of Suzie Miller’s acclaimed stage play, exploring the complexities of justice, power, and sexual consent through the eyes of a celebrated defence lawyer whose own life is irrevocably changed.

Meanwhile, acclaimed South Korean filmmaker Hur Jin-ho reunites with global superstar Lee Min-ho for The Assassin(s), a gripping thriller expected to showcase the director’s signature emotional intensity and suspense. Together, these three premieres signal an ambitious and star-powered start to TIFF 2026, with many more high-profile titles expected to be announced in the coming weeks. FERNTV can’t wait for more titles to come.