The Whistleblower Premieres at TIFF

Canadian audiences now can view the screening of the Canadian/German production of The Whistleblower at the 35^th Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF).

In her film directorial debut, Larysa Kondracki’s bold 100-minute political thriller tells the story of a female Nebraska police officer turned peacekeeper who uncovers a disturbing sex-trafficking underworld in Bosnia and its shocking connection to the UN. As Kathryn Bolkavac (Rachel Weisz) works feverishly to gather evidence to expose the scandal, the UN does its utmost to thwart her progress and to keep her quiet.

“Kondracki holds nothing back, exposing the insidious sexism, double standards and criminal negligence of those ostensibly entrusted to protect the vulnerable. The nightmare of the sex trade industry and the gruesome fates of its victims are depicted without reprieve… A rare feat… about horrific injustices against women and told through a woman’s uncompromising lens,” says Agata Smoluch Del Sorbo.

The cast also includes Vanessa Redgrave, David Strathairn, Monica Bellucci and Nikolaj Lie Kaas. The screenplay is by Larysa Kondracki and Ellis Kirwan.

Larysa Kondracki was born in Toronto and studied English and theatre at McGill University in Montreal. She received an M.F.A. in film direction from Columbia University, New York City, and directed the short film Viko (2008).

The North American Premiere of The Whistleblower on Monday, September 13 at 2:30 pm, VISA Screening Room at the Elgin Theatre, 189 Yonge St., is a ‘Premium Public Screening’. A repeat ‘Regular Public Screening’ is on Friday, September 17 at 6 pm., TIFF Bell LightBox 1 at King and John Streets (NW corner). For tickets, go to TIFF.NET or call 416-968-FILM.