Toronto Film Fest: So Far, Buzzless

There have been many good films at this year’s Toronto Film Festival, but as the third day of the festival dawns, studio executives and buyers privately acknowledge that this year’s gathering so far lacks a “must see” picture.

Perhaps it was the festival’s decision to draw a line in the sand by deciding it would only screen films that were having their world premieres during the event’s first four days. That has left Toronto with nothing that’s sent critics and cinephiles scurrying for the superlatives, as they did last year when “12 Years a Slave” and “Gravity” screened here, despite having shown earlier at the Telluride Film Festival.

So far, the slate of films that have been shown have been more promising from a commercial perspective than from an awards one. The festival’s opening night film, “The Judge,” might score a supporting actor nomination for Robert Duvall, but the Robert Downey Jr. vehicle is designed more likely to sell tickets than move Oscar voters.

“Toronto just struggles with that opening night film,” said one indie executive, who declined to be identified, but noted that last year’s debut film, “The Fifth Estate,” bombed. “They can’t seem to nail that slot.”

Likewise, “The Drop” and “St. Vincent,” both of which debuted Friday, were enthusiastically received by festival crowds, leaving critics respectful,…

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