“ The Life of Chuck ,” a feel-good apocalyptic story starring Tom Hiddleston and directed by Mike Flanagan, took home the Toronto International Film Festival’s people’s choice award.

The 2024 Toronto International Film Festival was a success on many fronts, launching many titles into the marketplace looking for buyers, and others into the fall season, including the usual spate of Oscar contenders. But the festival continues to contract, with empty seats in the largest houses.

This adaptation of a Stephen King novella stars Tom Hiddleston, Chiwetel Ejiofor and Mark Hamill. “The Substance” and a Tragically Hip documentary also won.