Get ready for some super-cute aping around, Disney’s nature doc Chimpanzee is getting its Canadian premiere at TIFF Bell Lightbox on Friday.
The film is guaranteed to elicit ahhhs from the audience as it follows a playful young chimp by the name of Oscar who’s growing up in the African rainforest. Directed by Alastair Fothergill and Mark Linfield, the film is visually stunning — but prepare to have your heartstrings tugged when a rival band of chimps turn up to spoil the party for Oscar and co.
Following the movie, Bill Wallauer, Chimpanzee’s principal photographer, will be on hand to explain how the filmmakers managed to get up close and personal with Oscar’s group.
The movie is screening as part of the 15th TIFF Kids International Film Festival, which kicks off today at the TIFF Bell Lightbox. The 12-day fest is geared towards kids aged between three and 13. It features 130 films from 41 countries tackling themes like environmentalism, bullying, sports, diversity, teamwork and friendship.
In addition, Aardman Animation’s Peter Lord will premier his latest film The Pirates! Band of Misfits, featuring the voices of Hugh Grant and Salma Hayek. And a new arrival at this year’s fest is the TIFF Kids digiPlaySpace, an interactive game centre where budding filmmakers can take part in hands-on film and media activities.
Chimpanzee screens April 13, 7 p.m. TIFF Bell Lightbox, 350 King St. W., 416-599-8433