Two Stunning Films I Witnessed at TIFF 2026
When two powerful documentaries meet on the big screen, they don’t just tell stories—they transport us. At the Toronto International Film Festival recently, two films showcased this extraordinary power: Barry Avrich’s “Darlene Love: I Know Where I’ve Been” and William & David Greaves’ “Once Upon a Time in Harlem.” These were more than just historical or biographical pieces; they were uplifting journeys that illuminated how key figures and pivotal moments in history offer a compelling path forward.
The story of Darlene Love is a testament to the enduring power of voice. As the film explores her journey, it offers a unique perspective on the world of music and stardom, specifically focusing on the invaluable contributions of backup singers. It shines a light on how the voices that enrich our classic songs were often those of women like Love, whose presence was sometimes relegated to the background by the producers of the day.
The narrative delves into the history of Love, tracing her career under the tutelage of record producer Phil Spector. The documentary reveals the complex dynamics of the music industry, showing how Spector viewed singers as fungible commodities, focusing his brilliance instead on his own “wall of sound.” Yet, the film beautifully juxtaposes this history with the resounding praise from contemporaries like Cher, Bruce Springsteen, and Dionne Warwick, all celebrating the indelible mark Darlene Love left on music.
Perhaps the most moving aspect of the tribute is witnessing Darlene Love herself, now 85, stepping back into the spotlight. The film captures her vitality, showing her engaging in daily physical routines and, most poignantly, performing live. Seeing her open her mouth and deliver vocals that were rich and strong, regardless of age, served as a powerful reminder of her mantra: knowing where she’s been is the key to knowing where she’s going. Her presence on stage, wearing a mini-skirt and platform heels, was a celebration of a life lived fully.
Equally captivating was “Once Upon a Time in Harlem,” which offered an experience that felt like true time travel. Director David Greaves masterfully assembled 16mm reels, capturing a high-spirited gathering of luminaries from the Harlem Renaissance. This cinematic journey brought us face-to-face with iconic figures, including poets Arna Bontemps and Richard Bruce Nugent, painters Aaron Douglas and James Van Der Zee, composer Eubie Blake, and Ida Mae Cullen, widow of the late poet Countee Cullen.
The film doesn’t just show us history; it invites us to grapple with legacy. As the cinematic journey moves through the figures of the Renaissance, the narrative beautifully captures the tension and candidness of these legends as they confront the question of what their legacy means to a younger generation. The film reminds us that these figures, in their vulnerability, offer a miracle of human experience.
These cinematic treasures, whether focusing on the resilience of a singing legend or the rich tapestry of cultural history, do more than just entertain. They act as portals into humanity itself, allowing us to sit and reflect on the enduring power of art, history, and the strength found in shared stories.
Buy on Amazon
Credit
