‘British Film Festival’: a star studded, visually stunning and diverse program
Image: Blitz - Opening Night Film
This year the annual British Film Festival has a record 36 films for audiences to choose from, which means this is the biggest program ever presented. There are comedies, dramas and documentaries, many of which are Australian premieres.
“There is a very even mix of both commercial and specialised titles in this festival. Some films will be major commercial releases in the first quarter of 2025,” festival curator Kim Petalas enthused.
The opening night film is Blitz, an epic World War II drama about the plight of a mother who is desperately searching for her son. The film stars Academy and BAFTA Award-nominee Saoirse Ronan.
Preceding the screening is the traditional opening night reception and this year each guest receives an official festival gift bag, and they also have a fun afterparty to look forward to!
Festival attendees may enjoy a G&T or mocktail on arrival at the closing night Australian premiere of We Live In Time which stars Florence Pugh and Andrew Garfield. This is regarded as one of the most romantic films in recent years.
An international guest will be attending the festival this year. Aylin Tezel is the director, screenwriter and star of Falling Into Place, her first feature-length film, and she will be participating in a Q &A following the screening of her movie.
Lovers of classic cinema should enjoy a selection of five historical dramas that have been restored in 4K. Popular choices include Heat and Dust (1983), The Lion In Winter (1968) and Henry V (1989).
“The 4K restoration gives audiences a rare opportunity to see these classic films fully restored and on big cinema screens. It is a totally different experience watching these very cinematic films as they were meant to be seen,” explained Petalas.
British religious drama Conclave should prove to be a hit at this year’s festival. Ralph Fiennes stars in this thriller which surrounds the secretive process of the selection of a new pope.
“This is a riveting dramatization with amazing performances from a stellar cast and it should have mass appeal. I believe patrons will really enjoy this enthralling film.”
The screening of classic A Room With A View honours the late iconic actress Dame Maggie Smith, who unfortunately passed away earlier this year. Why did this actress have such an illustrious career and why was she so loved by movie-going audiences?
“Dame Maggie Smith had such a decorated career and her longevity in cinema from the 1950’s to 2023 is a testament to her enormous talent. She had amazing charm, wit and such an iconic presence,” explained Petalas.
“She appealed to all ages as whilst her early career catered for discerning audiences; her career was reinvigorated as she was introduced to younger audiences with the Harry Potter series. She won two Oscars and 5 BAFTAs, and her films and her body of work make her one of the greatest British actresses of all time.”
When asked why this year’s British Film Festival should appeal to all audiences Petalas was quick to respond.
“The festival has mass appeal this year as there is something for everyone. From traditional British period films, comedies, love stories, dramas to Rock n Roll concert films, restorations and documentaries. The festival is very diverse, and audiences should discover that special film they connect with.”
Festival Curator Kim Petalas’ Hot Picks
BLITZ – An amazing recreation of the London Blitz during WW2 with masterful performances by Saoirse Ronan and newcomer Elliott Heffernan. The film is meticulous in its depiction of London during that period and the production design is quite incredible.
HARD TRUTHS – Mike Leigh’s 23rd film is a riveting exploration of family life in London with an Oscar worthy performance from Marianne Jean-Baptise. Her character is unforgettable and one of the most unique characters ever seen on screen.
WE LIVE IN TIME – A truly moving, thoughtful and charming film about love with two wonderful performances by Florence Pugh and Andrew Garfield. A film with enormous appeal that is not to be missed!
The British Film Festival 2024
Nov 7 – 8 Dec
Screens at all Palace Cinemas
britishfilmfestival.com.au
