The British war drama Blitz will open the festival.

Movie buffs, buckle up because the 68th BFI London Film Festival is about to hit the scene with a cinematic explosion. Taking place from 9 to 20 October, get ready to be wowed by an incredible array of films.

The full lineup of the 68th BFI London Film Festival hasn’t been unveiled, but once announced, they will be battling it out in the Official Competition category for the highly coveted Best Film Award.

The London Film Festival will return to Southbank Centre’s Royal Festival Hall as the gala venue, along with BFI Southbank, which will host the screen talks and other free events. Cinemas across the UK will also be screening films that have participated in the festival.

While the complete programme will be announced on 4 September, Apple TV original, Blitz will have its premiere at the London Film Festival. This Steve McQueen directorial will open the festival, setting the stage for the brilliance that other movies will display.

Set in London, Blitz is a tale of resilience and humanity. It follows nine-year-old George during World War II after his mother, Rita, sends him to the safety of the English countryside. Determined to reunite his mother with her father, George embarks on a dangerous journey. The film stars Academy and BAFTA nominee Saoirse Ronan along with Elliott Heffernan, Harris Dickinson, Benjamin Clementine, Kathy Burk and many more.

As for Steve McQueen, the 68th BFI London Film Festival marks his third return to the prestigious festival. He has opened the festival twice before in 2018 with Widows and in 2020 with Mangrove.

With Blitz opening the London Film Festival, the event’s sure to be spectacular. Tickets go on sale from 17 September, for BFI members only.

GO: Visit www.bfi.org.uk for more information.