In Conversation With… has become a yearly TIFF series that aims to connect the audience and film enthusiasts with writers, directors, actors, and more through an intimate and moderated discussion with attendees. Guests discuss their creative processes and experiences, giving real stories and sharing them with the audience.
"The 2023 In Conversation With… series embodies our conviction that film possesses the remarkable ability to ignite perspectives and drive profound change," said Anita Lee, TIFF's Chief Programming Officer. "We are truly thrilled to extend a warm welcome to Sylvester Stallone and this lineup of icons. This series promises to captivate film aficionados of all genres."
Stallone has become a figure of strength within the film industry throughout the years of his career, making waves in both acting and filmmaking. He found immense success with his screenplay and portrayal of Rocky (1976), an underdog story that found him nominated at the Academy Awards for Best Actor and Best Writing. His original film has gone on to inspire a franchise that includes five sequels and the spinoff series Creed (2015).
His impact in Hollywood doesn’t stop there, as he co-wrote and starred as John Rambo in First Blood (1982), a series that solidified him as an iconic action hero — and that went on to inspire multiple sequels and video games. His directing career has been just as successful — with the film The Expendables (2010), he's considered to have directed the most impressive cast of action stars ever. He has also directed many other films, for example, Rambo (2008), Staying Alive (1983), Cliffhanger (1993), and more.
The highly anticipated Netflix original documentary Sly (2023) will follow Stallone's career as a towering figure in Hollywood's history. It premieres at TIFF this year, closing out the festival as the final film on September 17, 2023.
Stallone joins the series In Conversation With… to discuss his celebrated career, immense contributions to Hollywood and the action genre of film, and his legacy behind the camera and on-screen. He has joined the roster alongside Pedro Almodóvar, Lee Byung-hun, Park Seo-jun, and Andy Laud. Tickets go on sale on August 21 for Visa Infinite cardholders, who will be given early access to TIFF 2023 tickets. ~Ireland Fidale