Currently, the TIFF Kids International Film Festival (April 7 – April 23) is hosting a variety of content; including exclusive film premieres, industry insight, and interactive activities.  I was fortunate enough to catch a couple of the premieres at this year’s TIFF Kids, and both films were encouraging examples from future storytellers.

On Wheels (DIR. Mauro D’Addio)

Award-winning Brazilian filmmaker Mauro D’Addio makes his feature film debut with the affable coming-of-age drama On Wheels.

On Wheels is a story of two kids who are seemingly opposites until Lais, an outsider with concerns about her wayward father she’s never met, befriends Lucas, a recently paralyzed soccer fanatic.  After receiving bitter reception from her mother, Lais makes a decision to travel and find her father.  Stubborn Lucas agrees to be her partner during this journey, and intends to break-in his new wheelchair (which resembles a workout three-wheeled cruiser used in marathons).  The pair meet odd yet affectionate acquaintances along the way, but their mission remains front and centre.

On Wheels will be old news to anyone who is familiar with the coming-of-age canon, however preteens (who are patient enough to jive with the slower pace) will appreciate the relatable characters and the film’s inspiring theme of pushing boundaries.

Catch On Wheels at the TIFF Kids International Film Festival on:

Friday, April 14 at 3:30 p.m. @ TIFF Bell Lightbox

Thursday, April 20 at 12:30 p.m. @ TIFF Bell Lightbox

Saturday, April 22 at 12:30 p.m. @ TIFF Bell Lightbox

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Room 213 (DIR. Emelie Lindblom)

Room 213 is a funky campfire story that introduces kids to an exciting genre.

Twelve-year-olds Elvira, Bea, and Meja have a weird time at summer camp ahead of them.  Not only are they getting to know each other, but they’re also struggling with pesky boys and pranks.  The jokes get out of hand, however, when certain beloved items start disappearing, followed by bumps in the night.

Adapting from Ingelin Angerborn’s children’s book of the same name (under its origin language, Rum 213), Swedish filmmaker Emelie Lindblom captures the exact thrill of being creeped out, while also keeping within the film’s tasteful PG wheelhouse.  Along with a warm, luminescent glow courtesy of cinematographer Emil Klang, Room 213 has fun with jump scares and atmospheric tension that builds towards a soft yet satisfying finale.

Catch Room 213 at the TIFF Kids International Film Festival on:

Saturday, April 22 at 12:45 p.m. @ TIFF Bell Lightbox

Sunday, April 23 at 12:30 p.m. @ TIFF Bell Lightbox

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Click here for more festival details and to buy tickets.

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Addison Wylie: @AddisonWylie