12 must-see British movies at this year’s BFI London Film Festival

As a film enthusiast with a penchant for unconventional narratives and a soft spot for drag queens, I can confidently say that “Forma” is a must-watch this festival season! Having attended numerous pride events myself, I appreciate the nuanced portrayal of the LGBTQ+ community in this film. The romance between Layla and the marketing executive promises to be both intoxicating and thought-provoking, especially with the talented Rebecca Lucy Taylor (Self Esteem) and RuPaul’s Drag Race UK contestant Baby joining the cast.

The much-anticipated BFI London Film Festival returns next month, from October 9th to the 20th, at various locations in London and throughout the United Kingdom. Exciting news! Tickets are now available for everyone who wishes to participate.

Understanding that the extensive lineup comprising 253 movies, short films, TV series, and immersive works might seem overwhelming, we’re here to help! If you’re interested in discovering some homegrown cinematic gems this year, we’ve meticulously sifted through the program to highlight the most thrilling and buzzworthy British movies of this year’s festival.

For certain blockbuster films from this year, all tickets have been snapped up in advance. However, additional tickets will be made available for select titles on October 3rd and throughout the festival period. Additionally, during each showing, there’s a standby line that forms 30 minutes prior to the screening, allowing patrons to grab any returned or unused seats at the last minute.

Don’t lose hope, basically.

Meanwhile, as you’re waiting, take a look at Digital Spy’s recommendations for essential British films showing at this year’s festival, listed alphabetically rather than by importance.

Movie Director: Andrea Arnold

Barry Keoghan is showcasing two highly recommended films at this year’s festival: the Irish suspenseful drama “Bring Them Down” and the acclaimed British production by director Andrea Arnold, titled “Bird“.

A film titled “Bird” made its entrance with a flawless 100% score on Rotten Tomatoes upon its debut at Cannes. The story revolves around a 12-year-old girl residing in a troubled home, whose life takes an unexpected turn when she crosses paths with an aspiring drug dealer.

Screenings: Sat 19 Oct, 8.45pm and Sun 20 Oct, 2.30pm

Steven McQueen)

Among the highly awaited debuts at this year’s festival, the opening film, titled “Blitz“, is a significant return to directing by Steve McQueen after a gap of six years.

He has gathered a top-notch group of actors such as Saoirse Ronan, Stephen Graham, Paul Weller (yes, the famous one), and promising newcomer Elliott Heffernan to delve into life in London during the nightly bombings of World War II.

Screenings: Weds 9 Oct, 7pm, Thurs 10 Oct, 3.20pm, Fri 11 Oct, 2.45pm and Fri 18 Oct, 8.50pm

Director: Edward Berger
Starring: Ralph Fiennes, Stanley Tucci, John Lithgow, Isabella Rossellini

Initially, we were eager to watch director Edward Berger’s next project following “All Quiet on the Western Front“. However, the release of “Conclave” receiving a perfect score of 100% on Rotten Tomatoes has significantly increased our eagerness.

As a gaming enthusiast, diving into the world of Robert Harris’s novel adaptation is like stepping onto an exciting new level. I find myself as Ralph Fiennes, selected to lead the conclave, with the crucial task of choosing the next Pope. But there’s a looming sense of mystery and hidden truths that could potentially unravel it all. The intrigue, the conspiracies, and the presence of Stanley Tucci? Sign me up! Let’s see where this game takes us.

Screenings: Thurs 10 Oct, 8.45pm, Fri 11 Oct, 11.45am and Weds 16 Oct, 3pm

Director: Iain Forsyth, Jane Pollard
Starring: Emilíana Torrini, Caroline Catz

Without a doubt, one of the most extraordinary films this year’s festival has to offer, “The Extraordinary Miss Flower” makes its debut on the global stage as part of the Main Competition.

As a gamer, here’s my attempt at paraphrasing: Upon the demise of Geraldine Flower, her family stumbled upon a hidden trove of heartfelt letters from across the globe. This discovery sparked an album by Icelandic singer-songwriter Emilíana Torrini, inspired by her words, forming the foundation for this enchanting movie performance that’s bound to cast a spell on us all.

Screenings: Sat 19 Oct, 5.30pm and Sun 20 Oct, 3.45pm

Director: Pinny Grylls, Sam Crane
Starring: Mark Oosterveen, Sam Crane, Pinny Grylls

During lockdown, life took an unusual turn for everyone, including two unemployed actors. This period unexpectedly led them to create a unique rendition of Hamlet, set in the universe of Grand Theft Auto.

Absolutely correct! You’ve understood it correctly. Grand Theft Hamlet, surprisingly, was entirely filmed within GTA, and this unique approach has earned it widespread critical acclaim. The documentary even secured a near-flawless rating on Rotten Tomatoes. It seems that violent video games might not be as detrimental as some people think!

Screenings: Tues 15 Oct, 8.55pm/9.10pm and Sun 20 Oct, 11am

Director: Mike Leigh
Starring: Marianne Jean-Baptiste, Michele Austin, David Webber

You might not require additional convincing, but here it goes: The latest film from acclaimed British director Mike Leigh, titled “Hard Truths,” is screening at the London Film Festival. So, if you needed a nudge, there you have it!

However, if you choose to watch it, it has received a perfect 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes after its world premiere at Toronto. Moreover, this film serves as a reunion for Leigh with Marianne Jean-Baptiste, who starred in “Secrets & Lies.” Once again, the director offers an authentic and touching portrayal of human life.

Screenings: Mon 14 Oct, 6pm, Weds 16 Oct, 2.30pm and Sun 20 Oct 8.30pm

Movie Director: Athina Rachel Tsangari

In the film titled “Harvest“, actors Caleb Landry Jones and Harry Melling feature prominently. This chilling tale is crafted by Athina Rachel Tsangari, exploring themes of fascism, prejudice, and ruthless economic systems.

In Jim Crace’s 2013 book, the narrative unfolds in an unnamed medieval English village, where long-standing customs are disrupted by the unexpected arrival of three strangers. Critics have labeled it as a humorous yet melancholic retelling of a Western, delving into the emotional scars of modernization from a surreal standpoint.

Screenings: Sat 12 Oct, 8.45pm, Sun 13 Oct, 1pm and Sun 20 Oct, 12.45pm

Director: Ben Taylor
Starring: Thomasin McKenzie, James Norton, Bill Nighy

This year’s festival will also feature the first film by Ben Taylor, titled “Joy“, marking its world premiere prior to its Netflix release in November.

This movie portrays the true account of how Jean Purdy, Robert Edwards, and Patrick Steptoe collaborated on the creation of the world’s first “test tube baby.” Featuring the talented ensemble of Thomasin McKenzie, James Norton, and Bill Nighy, it promises to be a captivating and moving viewing experience.

Screenings: Tues 15 Oct, 9pm, Weds 16 Oct, 11.30am and Sat 19 Oct, 8.45pm

Director: Amrou Al-Kadhi
Starring: Bilal Hasna, Louis Greatorex, Safiyya Inga

In this year’s festival, Amrou Al-Kadhi’s initial directorial venture, titled “Layla“, stands out as a concealed treasure, having made its first appearance at the Sundance Film Festival earlier in the year.

The film revolves around a troubled Arab drag artist navigating a captivating love affair with a corporate marketing professional, which confuses Layla’s self-perception. Performing artist Rebecca Lucy Taylor (popularly recognized as Self Esteem) and “RuPaul’s Drag Race UK” competitor Baby are among the ensemble cast.

Screenings: Weds 16 Oct, 8.30pm/8.45pm and Thurs 17 Oct, 8.50pm

Director: Simon Otto
Starring: Brian Cox, Fiona Shaw, Jodie Whittaker, Bill Nighy, Rhys Darby

We wanted to include a family-friendly option and, sure, it might not be the festive season yet, but that choice had to be Netflix animation That Christmas.

According to Richard Curtis’s children’s books, this story revolves around a small Suffolk town needing a Christmas miracle. Featuring beloved British actors such as Brian Cox, Fiona Shaw, Bill Nighy, and Jodie Whittaker in the voice cast, it promises to become a staple for your yearly holiday viewing.

Screenings: Sat 19 Oct, 2.30pm

Director: John Crowley
Starring: Florence Pugh, Andrew Garfield, Douglas Hodge, Adam James

In the delightful genre of romantic comedy-drama, you’ll find stars Florence Pugh and Andrew Garfield. If you aren’t yet captivated by We Live in Time, we can’t fathom what could be keeping you standing!

The upcoming film by John Crowley is predicted to tug at our heartstrings, with the potential to heal them as it portrays the ups and downs of a long-term relationship spanning several decades. Initial critiques indicate that Pugh and Garfield are delivering exceptional performances, creating an emotionally engaging and humorous romantic tale.

Screenings: Thurs 17 Oct, 6pm, Fri 18 Oct, 11.30am and Sun 20 Oct, 9.15pm

Director: Elizabeth Sankey
Starring: Sophia Di Martino, Catherine Cho, David Emson

At this year’s festival, the documentary titled “Witches” stands out with its compelling blend of personal narratives, a heartfelt homage to filmmaking, and a scholarly examination on feminism.

In her subsequent work after her documentary “Romantic Comedy,” Elizabeth Sankey employs clips spanning from “The Wizard of Oz” to “Rosemary’s Baby” to delve into the manner in which popular portrayals of witches reflect a biased view towards women, motherhood, and mental wellness.

Screenings: Tues 15 Oct, 8.30pm, Thurs 17 Oct, 6pm and Sun 20 Oct, 8.45pm