The 2026 Toronto International Film Festival played host to one of the most anticipated television events of the year on September 10, 2026, as the cast and creators gathered at the TIFF Lightbox for the world premiere of the gripping new limited series, Below.
A Dazzling Turnout at the TIFF Lightbox
The red carpet pulsed with excitement as the creative minds and stellar ensemble cast arrived to celebrate the Newfoundland-set suspense thriller.
The premiere brought out an impressive roster of Canadian and international talent. Key attendees lighting up the red carpet included headliners and stars Josh Hartnett, Mackenzie Davis, Charlie Heaton, Ruby Stokes, Rohan Campbell, Natasha Henstridge, Josh Cruddas, Willow Kean, and Mary Walsh. The creative team was also out in full force, featuring creator and screenwriter Jesse McKeown, alongside key producers and team members Tara Woodbury, Danielle Woodrow, Chris Hatcher, Mark Kinsella, Louise Sutton, Jessica Rhoades, and director Jamie Childs.
“Below” Debuts at TIFF 2026
Created by Jesse McKeown, Below is a masterclass in atmospheric tension. Set in a small, tight-knit Newfoundland coastal village, the story centers on Calvin Penney, played by Josh Hartnett, a man deeply rooted in the traditions of commercial fishery and iceberg harvesting. As Calvin tries to navigate the future with his children—wayward Wade, played by Charlie Heaton; adventurous Mary, played by Ruby Stokes; and entrepreneurial visitor Jay, played by Rohan Campbell—the town is fractured by an impending government relocation vote.
However, local politics quickly take a backseat to terror. When harvested ice begins emitting a strange, unnatural odor and tourists mysteriously vanish, Calvin enlists the help of local marine biologist Fonda Howander, played by Mackenzie Davis. Together, they uncover a terrifying reality: something monstrous, ancient, and deeply unsettling lurks in the icy waters off the coast. Blending the warmth of generational family ties with the creeping dread of deep-sea horror, Below promises to be a standout title from TIFF 2026. Keep an eye out for release updates as this suspenseful Newfoundland saga prepares to make waves across screens everywhere.
Guide to the 51st Edition of the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF)
The Toronto International Film Festival returns for its landmark 51st edition from September 10–20, 2026. This celebration features the best of Canadian and global cinema, special events, talks with stars, and TIFF: The Market, where the global film, series, and innovation industries come together to power the future of the screen sector.
Participating in the festival and securing tickets requires some planning since tickets go fast. Becoming a TIFF member provides pre-sale access ahead of the public, offering the best chance to secure tickets to must-see films and special events. Memberships include year-round benefits such as free films, discounts, and additional pre-sale access. Members who purchased between January 1 and April 30, 2026, receive Early Bird designation, and visitors can stay up to date on offers by subscribing to the mailing list.
New for #TIFF26, TIFF Members save $2 off the price of all Regular screening tickets during the Member pre-sale from August 21-27. Additionally, select screenings throughout the festival feature tickets starting at $15, and newcomers can learn more about Rush tickets as an alternative option.
Ticket pricing varies by category. Regular screenings start at $30, or $28 with member-exclusive pricing during the August 21-27 pre-sale, while Regular Rush tickets cost $32. Premium screenings start at $46, and Premium Rush tickets are $48. All ticket prices include HST and service fees; TIFF prefers Visa, and all tickets are non-refundable and non-exchangeable for other screenings.
