TIFF cancels Russian war propaganda documentary screening over safety concerns
The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) canceled the screening of the Canadian documentary Russians at War due to “significant threats to festival operations and public safety,” according to a statement released on Sept. 12.
TIFF called the decision as unprecedented and “incredibly difficult,” but necessary to ensure the safety of all festival guests, staff, and volunteers.
“As a cultural institution, we support civil discourse about and through films, including differences of opinion, and we fully support peaceful assembly,” the statement said, emphasizing that TIFF stands by its previous statement about the need to show the documentary, which it believes deserves a place in the program.
“However, we have received reports indicating potential activity in the coming days that pose significant risk; given the severity of these concerns, we cannot proceed as planned.”
TIFF expressed its commitment to screen the documentary when it is safe to do so.
The decision was supported by Ukraine's Ambassador to Canada, Yuliya Kovaliv, who believes the festival made “the only right decision,” but also criticized TIFF for “not having the courage to directly admit its profound mistake.”
"This project has already caused significant damage to the festival's reputation and given Russia an opportunity to further undermine democracy. We will continue to fight Russian propaganda in every corner of the world, using all peaceful and legal means," she wrote on Facebook.
Earlier, Ukraine's Consul General Oleh Nikolenko expressed disappointment after TIFF announced it would screen the documentary, directed by Russian propagandist Anastasia Trofimova.
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