“Vibrant, eclectic, and bursting with energy, this year’s Next Wave Film Festival promises an authentic and unexpected lineup of films and events that speak to the specific yet universal experiences of young people. With something for everyone, our selections highlight the rising creatives of our generation and the importance of using your voice to find community. The spirit of connection is intrinsic to Next Wave now more than ever, and we can’t wait for the festival as a place to spark conversation, discover new perspectives, and push the boundaries of what you thought cinema could be." — 2024-2025 TIFF Next Wave Committee
Make sure you get your Under-25 Free Pass to unlock your free ticket to TIFF Next Wave Official Selection screenings! Tickets for TIFF Members and Under-25 Free Pass holders go on sale on March 19, and to the public on March 21.
Discover the next wave of movie and music talent as four up-and-coming bands compete for one big prize. Come for music, stay for the party!
Looking for film inspiration? Hear from industry experts and chat through ideas with other emerging creators in this series of workshops and talks.
Short films created for youth, by youth. Featuring dynamic work that spans several genres and formal approaches, together these films capture an honest portrait of what it means to be young today.
Acclaimed Canadian filmmaker Chandler Levack revisits the genre-defining teen comedy from 1982.
Join us for a totally jerkin’ screening of the early-aughts camp classic Josie and the Pussycats, hosted by one of Canada’s top drag queens and star of Canada’s Drag Race, Miss Moço.
As part of our TIFF 50 celebrations, catch a special double-bill of Shiva Baby and Bottoms with rising director Emma Seligman.
They curate the festival. Big round of applause.
Join Film Club to stay updated on upcoming events for young film lovers and creators.
Get tickets by browsing the schedule here
Official Selection Films
Under-25 Free Pass Holder/Under-25 Member:
FREE
25 and older:
$17
Battle of the Scores + Young Creators Showcase
Under-25 Free Pass Holder/Under-25 Member:
$8.50
25 and older:
$17
Young Creators Co-Lab – Individual Sessions
Under-25 Free Pass Holder/Under-25 Member:
$8.50
25 and older:
$17
Young Creators Co-Lab – U25 Co-Lab Pass: access to all four sessions
Under-25 Free Pass Holder/Under-25 Member:
$25
Loved It: Chandler Levack on Fast Times at Ridgemont High
Under-25 Free Pass Holder:
$15
TIFF Member:
$15
Senior/Student:
$17
Adults:
$20
Quote Along: Josie and the Pussycats
Under-25 Free Pass Holder:
$15
TIFF Member:
$15
Senior/Student:
$17
Adults:
$20
TIFF 50 Alumni Spotlight with Emma Seligman
Under-25 Free Pass Holder:
$15
TIFF Member:
$15
Senior/Student:
$17
Adults:
$20
Free tickets for TIFF Next Wave Film Festival Official Selection Films are limited to one ticket per screening for anyone under 25. Make sure you get your Under-25 Free Pass to unlock your free ticket. Pricing includes tax and fees.
TIFF prefers Visa.
2024-2025 TIFF Next Wave Committee
Founded in 2010, the TIFF Next Wave Committee is a group of 12 students ranging in age from 15 to 18 and selected from a competitive pool of hopeful young film enthusiasts. Hailing from specialized arts institutions, public schools, and private schools across the GTA, the Committee members’ tastes, opinions, and critical voices are as diverse as they are strong. Some are aspiring filmmakers, writers, and actors; some are interested in learning the business of film and festivals; some like planning cultural events; and some just love movies. All have demonstrated a spirit that has impressed TIFF leaders. With the guidance of TIFF staff, the Committee is charged with planning some major youth-oriented events at TIFF Lightbox, including the TIFF Next Wave Film Festival.