FILM NEWS: THE TIMES BFI 53rd LONDON FILM FESTIVAL
Friday, September 11, 2009 at 6:20PM | Leila De Lara 
Every October, London brings to its cultural core the event that welcomes all those Hollywood types we see on the TV, and the indie film makers who sparkle with their latent talent ready to explode on to screen. This my friends, is the London Film Festival. In its 53rd year, its very mention brings to mind all those iconic images of red carpet glamour - but between the glitzy premieres, galas, and celebrity filled parties, we have some real independent gems.
The programme embraces this cultural mix, heralding the large and the small alongside some brilliant foreign language films and documentary work. They all take their seats here, at one of the most prestigious film events of the year.
A total of 191 features (146 of which are premieres), and 113 shorts will be screened during the two weeks, and this doesn't even include the periphery events and exciting array of guest speakers. Opening night sees the world premiere of Wes Anderson's creative interpretation of Fantastic Mr Fox. It will be presented by the director himself and supported by a strong cast in attendance including George Clooney and Bill Murray. The closing gala, introduces a sensitive look at the teenage years of John Lennon with Nowhere Boy, and for the young and the nostalgic, fans can see Toy Story 2 in Disney digital 3D for the first time.
The festival also boasts films from the finest existing and established directors, and displays work from up and coming talents bringing you their latest theatrical treats. Among the recognised and returning creators, there are the likes of Ang Lee, Jim Jarmusch, Jane Campion, and Grant Heslov. Whereas debut directors will intrigue us with tales of misguided love like in Jordon Scott's film Cracks, and draw us in with sensitivity with the piece Samson & Delilah by Warwick Thornton. Meanwhile, fans of comedy will be enthralled with the celebration of one mans life in America: The Bill Hicks Story.
New French cinema and contemporary European films are also reflected in the programme, what with maestro Jacques Rivette's Around a small mountain, and the powerful Vincere by Marco Bellocchio. It doesn't stop there however, the best of world cinema will astound festival goers, alongside the emerging creations of new wave American independent filmmakers. The experimental strand itself, sees seven films by the avant garde artist and theoretician known as Hapax Legomena, with an array of cult classics and lovingly restored features.
The sheer wealth of entertainment is phenomenal, and I haven't even mentioned the free outdoor screening in Trafalgar Square, and the events that bring the people behind the film to you, inviting discussion and inducing debate. The festival is diverse, varied and world renowned. It showcases the creative imaginations of others, and encourages you to join in.
The BFI 53rd London Film Festival will take place from Wednesday 14th October to Thursday 29th October 2009. For more information and the full programme, visit www.bfi.org.uk/lff/
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