jojo rabbit

Hitler comedy Jojo Rabbit gets rave reviews after debut at TIFF

Jojo Rabbit had its world premiere last night at the Princess of Wales theatre in Toronto for TIFF and audiences finally got to see director and actor Taika Waititi's unique brand of droll statire.

"It does speak for itself" - Taika Waititi #tiff19

A post shared by Jason Gorber (@filmfest_ca) on

The film stars Roman Griffin Davis as Jojo, a young Nazi enthusiast whose invisible best friend happens to be Hitler (Waititi at his Chaplinesque best).

Scarlett Johansson, Sam Rockwell, Stephen Merchant and Alfie Allen were on hand for the premiere.

Team #JojoRabbit at prem #tiff19

A post shared by Jason Gorber (@filmfest_ca) on

The film's mix of satire and pathos was celebrated by the local crowd, resulting in an extended standing ovation at the film's conclusion.

Many critics were swayed by the film's deft shift in tone and ability to tell such a complex story in an emotionally engaging yet comedic fashion.

Others were less swayed by the film's magic.

Those who love the film love the film, while some seem to hate it - the film currently hovers around 50% on Rotten Tomatoes.

Audiences will still have a chance to see the film as it plays at TIFF for its repeat screenings, and it opens theatrically on October 18.

Lead photo by

Jason Cook


Latest Videos



Latest Videos


Join the conversation Load comments

Latest in Film

Major movie shot largely at Toronto's Rogers Centre described as 'bizarre' by star

Ryan Reynolds pens heartfelt message about fellow Canadian Michael J. Fox

Major transformation just around the corner for vintage Toronto movie theatre

Shamier Anderson and Stephan James took the TTC to their hall of fame ceremony

Law & Order Toronto episode about murdered grocery exec has people talking

Jacob Elordi spotted dropping serious cash at a Toronto store

Trailer released for new Netflix documentary about Toronto-area murder

Toronto-area murder is now the subject of a new Netflix documentary