Welcome
Kristy Matheson
Festival Director, BFI London Film Festival
Sharing thoughts and ideas is a supreme act of generosity. Coming into this role, I’ve been blissfully inundated. From the incredible festival team, BFI colleagues, UK and international industry… all have contributed to this edition through conversations in our common love language: cinema.
But the most touching offering is from the filmmaking teams themselves. My programming colleagues and I have been creatively charged by all the work we’ve seen and humbled by the trust artists have displayed in sharing their ideas and hard work with us. In shaping the festival, we see so much, and each encounter expands our knowledge and appreciation for cinema. To say it’s a privilege is a wild and hackneyed understatement. Over the last few months, I’ve been repeatedly swept away – more than one grumpy morning has been turned into a brilliantly excited mid-afternoon – because of the reprieve that a visit to a cinema has given me.
And so, it’s in this spirit of sharing that my brilliant teammates and I present this heartfelt cinematic mixtape to you. In a world where the next stressful encounter often feels like it’s moments away, come join us and take temporary cover under this wondrous blanket of art, and re-enter the world a little bit refreshed and excited by a new burning obsession that you can’t wait to share.
Ben Roberts, Chief Executive, BFI
Cinema has reclaimed its status as a cultural force – an art form that can spark a conversation around the world. You won’t find a more wide-ranging line-up of essential new cinema or a more vibrant screen culture than there is at the LFF. We’re particularly excited to see so many debut features from the UK this year and we invite you to share the exhilarating experience of discovering these new storytellers.
We want you to experience the festival wherever you are – whether it’s from our home on London’s South Bank, at cinemas across the UK or online on BFI Player. And we’re making the festival more accessible with a growing programme of screenings, events and talks in our LFF for Free programme.
A huge thanks to UK Government, National Lottery players and our many other generous sponsors, funders and donors, for all their support.
Hannah Lewis, UK Country Manager – American Express
It’s an honour to be back for our 14th year partnering with the BFI London Film Festival. Every year, the festival presents a unique programme that celebrates the talent, passion and creativity within the film industry in the UK and beyond – and this year will be no exception. We are thrilled to help Cardmembers and film enthusiasts alike create lasting memories, here on the iconic South Bank. We extend our best wishes for an unforgettable festival and look forward to seeing you there.
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