Andrew Scott’s Elsinore to open landmark 70th BFI London Film Festival

Andrew Scott’s Elsinore will open the 70^th BFI London Film Festival, with Simon Stone’s drama about acclaimed stage actor Ian Charleson set to receive its European premiere at the festival’s Opening Night Gala on 7^th October.

Written by Stephen Beresford (Pride), the film follows Charleson as he prepares to play Hamlet at the National Theatre while facing extraordinary personal challenges. The gala will take place at the Southbank Centre’s Royal Festival Hall, a short walk from the National Theatre where Charleson gave his celebrated performance, with cast members expected to attend.

Scott, who also serves as a producer, leads a cast including Olivia Colman, Billie Piper, Johnny Flynn, Luke Thompson, David Dawson, Monica Dolan, Matthew Beard, Joe Locke, Adeel Akhtar, Juliet Stevenson and Peter Mullan. Stone, whose previous credits include The Dig, directs the film, which is produced by Magnolia Mae Films, Lucky Red and LD Entertainment alongside STUDIOCANAL.

The announcement marks the first film confirmed for this year’s festival, which celebrates its 70^th edition from 7^th to 18^th October with screenings in London and at venues across the UK. STUDIOCANAL will release Elsinore in UK cinemas on 29^th January 2027, while the full festival programme will be unveiled on 2^nd September.

The editorial unit

The 70t^h BFI London Film Festival runs from 7^th to 18^th October 2026. For more information and the latest festival updates, visit the BFI London Film Festival website here.