The scandalous film "Russians at War" was removed from the TIFF program due to security threats

The organizers of the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) made an unprecedented decision: to stop screenings of the documentary "Russians at War" by Russian director Anastasia Trofimova. The move was made due to security threats that arose after previous scandals surrounding the tape.

Decision to stop showing

The premiere of the film was supposed to take place on Friday, but unexpectedly, the organizers announced the cancellation of all screenings for the coming weekend.

"TIFF is forced to halt future screenings of Russians at War on Friday, Saturday and Sunday as we have become aware of significant threats to festival operations and public safety. While we stand by our statement yesterday, this decision was made in order to guaranteeing the safety of all guests, employees and volunteers of the festival, " the official statement on the festival's website reads.

Reaction and context

The film "Russians at War" has already caused quite a stir after its screening at the Venice Film Festival. In Toronto, it was expected with great interest, but now the audience will be left without this opportunity. The organizers emphasized that this decision was extremely difficult, but necessary:

"This was an extremely difficult decision. When selecting films, we are guided by TIFF's mission, our values ​​and our programming principles. We believe that this film deserves a place in our festival program, and we are committed to showing it when it is safe to do so ", the organizers added.

Position of Ukrainian diplomats

Consul General of Ukraine in Toronto Oleg Nikolenko expressed support for this decision, noting that it was the only correct step in the current situation.

What's next?

Now it remains unknown when exactly the film will be included in the festival program again. The organizers promise to return it to the repertoire as soon as it becomes safe for all participants of the event.

Editor: Yana Davydiuk