The thriller film “40 Acres” will make its world premiere at this year’s Toronto International Film Festival. The movie tells the story of a family struggling to survive in a post-collapse society and protect their farmland. Director R.T. Thorne started developing the idea six years ago but the COVID-19 pandemic also influenced his vision.
The movie stars Danielle Deadwyler as Hailey Freeman, a former soldier who now protects her rural home with her partner, played by Michael Greyeyes. Hailey’s eldest son, portrayed by Kataem O’Connor, wants a different life, causing tension. Set in Northern Ontario, the Freeman family defends their 40 acres of land from an organized militia aiming to take it over.
Thorne says the story explores important themes like land ownership during crises and the divide between generations. He wanted to show how parents prepare kids for hard times ahead. A key plot focuses on Hailey advocating isolation while her son yearns for adventure beyond the farm.
Produced by Jennifer Holness, the movie received support from Canadian film funds. Visit Films acquired worldwide distribution excluding Canada, where Mongrel Media will distribute. Visit Films president Ryan Kampe says Thorne proves his talent moving from TV to film with an engaging social issues story.
The director started writing after changes in world politics made things feel “darker.” He says portraying murky morality between ideologies adds depth. Thorne looks forward to presenting “40 Acres” at TIFF, where he’s long been an audience member himself. With timely topics covered through a new dystopian lens, the movie aims to spark discussion at this year’s festival.