TORONTO—The prestigious Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) has made an exciting addition to its 48th lineup with the world premiere of Atom Egoyan’s highly anticipated film, “Seven Veils.” This marks Egoyan’s impressive 18th title to debut at TIFF.
In “Seven Veils,” Toronto Armenian Atom Egoyan reunites with the talented Amanda Seyfried, who takes on the role of Jeanine, a dedicated theater director entrusted with the task of reviving her former mentor’s renowned opera, “Salome.” However, Jeanine’s journey is fraught with the haunting memories of her tumultuous past, causing her suppressed trauma to influence her present as she delves back into the opera world after years of absence. Egoyan’s previous involvement with “Salome” includes directing it for the Canadian Opera Company in 1996 and recently staging a revival earlier this year.
The film also boasts an impressive ensemble cast, with Amanda Seyfried leading alongside Rebecca Liddiard, Douglas Smith, Mark O’Brien, and Vinessa Antoine. Noteworthy appearances include Ambur Braid as Salome and Michael Kupfer-Radecky as John the Baptist, both of whom starred in the Canadian Opera Company’s recent “Salome” production, also helmed by Egoyan, serving as a significant source of inspiration for the film.
TIFF CEO Cameron Bailey expressed the honour of showcasing Egoyan’s extraordinary work at this year’s festival. “Egoyan’s cinematic works are unmatched, and we’re excited to bring Seven Veils to our TIFF audiences and to the city of Toronto, his home,” he said in a statement.
In anticipation of the Special Presentation World Premiere screening at TIFF on Sept. 10, a special Avant-première of the film will be held in collaboration with the Canadian Opera Company on Sept. 8. The event will take place at the Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts, showcasing the intersection of film and opera.
“Seven Veils” is presented by Elevation Pictures and XYZ Films and produced by Rhombus Media and Ego Film Arts. The film received support from Telefilm Canada, Ontario Creates, IPR.VC, Cinetic Media, Crave, and the Canadian Opera Company. XYZ Films will handle worldwide distribution, while Elevation Pictures will distribute the film in Canada.