The BFI Film Festival Set to Open in London

It’s no secret that all eyes are on London this year. The capital city just keeps finding reasons to celebrate, the next item on the agenda promises to impress; the BFI London Film Festival. The festival is in its 56th year, and has joined forces with American Express to bring more firepower to the lineup, with more than 200 feature films coming to the Big Smoke. Early highlights include the world premiere of Crossfire Hurricane, a documentary commemorating the remarkable 50-year career of rock band The Rolling Stones, as well as the European premiere of director Mike Newell’s visually intoxicating take on the classic Dickensian novel Great Expectations.

Festival-goers will also have the opportunity to buy tickets for red carpet Gala screenings – but buy early as these are sure to sell out. Not sure where to begin? Check out Sight & Sounds‘ top recommendations. Or, if you’re feeling in need of a break from sitting in a dark theatre, explore some of the alternative events going on around the city, including talks, exhibitions and master classes. Our picks are The Art of Frankenweenie exhibition at Southbank and the Victoria & Albert’s Hollywood Costume exhibition.

Above, a BFI poster featuringTim Burton’s Frankenweenie. The BFI London Film Festival will run from October 10-21. For more information, please visit the festival’s website.