Fans of heartfelt, quirky family dramas will have something new to look forward to with the release of WHAT IF, the latest film from Penguin Pictures and Farpoint Films. Set to debut at the prestigious Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), the film features an all-star cast, including Lea Thompson (Back to the Future), Kevin Pollak (The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel), Leanne Melissa Bishop (The Weight of Perfection), and Aaron Ashmore (Ginny & Georgia). The film is directed by TIFF veteran Lindsay MacKay and written by actress-turned-writer Leanne Melissa Bishop, who also co-produces the film.
WHAT IF tells the poignant story of Marley (played by Bishop), a woman in her 40s who feels disconnected from her family and life. After leaving her fiancé at the altar, Marley discovers a shocking secret: she was switched at birth in a hospital mix-up. This revelation sends her on a journey to discover her real family and, ultimately, herself. Along the way, Marley reconnects with Devan (Ashmore), an old high school friend who is facing his own truths. Together, they embark on an eye-opening road trip that reshapes their understanding of family, belonging, and identity.
The film explores universal themes of self-discovery and acceptance, with Bishop noting, “Family means different things to different people, and often, we’re all searching for belonging. WHAT IF is about learning to love and accept yourself, no matter the circumstances.”
The film’s director, Lindsay MacKay, brings her signature touch to the film, known for creating deeply emotional and authentic character-driven stories. MacKay, whose previous films like The Swearing Jar and Wet Bum also premiered at TIFF, is excited to bring this new story to life with such a talented cast. Producer Michael P. Mason adds, “Audiences are craving authentic stories right now, and WHAT IF taps into that need for meaningful, human connections.”
With an award-winning cast and crew, WHAT IF promises to resonate with audiences everywhere. Stay tuned for updates as the film moves into production, with filming set to begin later this year.
Are you excited for this unique take on family dynamics? Let us know in the comments!
