Steve McQueen's 'Blitz' to open the 68th London Film Festival | MarkMeets | Celebrity News, Music, Movies, TV, London Film Premieres

2024 London Film Festival

The 68th London Film Festival is set to open with the highly anticipated world premiere of Steve McQueen’s new film, “Blitz.” This Apple Original Film will take the spotlight as the Opening Night Gala.

Table of Contents

A Gripping Storyline

The Journey of George

“Blitz” tells the captivating story of George, a 9-year-old boy played by newcomer Elliott Heffernan, living in World War II London. As the war intensifies, his mother, Rita (portrayed by Academy and BAFTA Award-nominee Saoirse Ronan), sends him to the relative safety of the English countryside. Despite the dangers, George is determined to reunite with his mother and grandfather, Gerald (played by Paul Weller), in East London. His courageous journey back home is fraught with peril, while Rita’s frantic search for her missing son unfolds in parallel.

A Stellar Cast

The film boasts an impressive ensemble cast. Alongside Saoirse Ronan and Elliott Heffernan, the cast includes:

Harris Dickinson
Benjamin Clementine
Kathy Burke
Paul Weller
Stephen Graham
Leigh Gill
Mica Ricketts
CJ Beckford
Alex Jennings
Joshua McGuire
Hayley Squires
Erin Kellyman
Sally Messham

Behind the Scenes

Production Team

“Blitz” is produced by Steve McQueen’s Lammas Park, in collaboration with Tim Bevan and Eric Fellner of Working Title Films. Additionally, Arnon Milchan, Yariv Milchan, and Michael Schaefer of New Regency are involved, with Anita Overland and Adam Somner also contributing as producers.

McQueen’s Vision

Steve McQueen shared his vision for the film, stating, “Blitz is a movie about Londoners. It honors the spirit of what and how Londoners endured during the blitz but also explores the true representation of people in London. At its core, it is the story of a working-class family desperate to be reunited during times of war.” He expressed his excitement about the film’s premiere, adding, “I could not be more thrilled that the BFI London Film Festival has invited us to open this year’s festival and to celebrate the World Premiere of ‘Blitz’ in my hometown.”

Festival Details

The 68th BFI London Film Festival, in partnership with American Express, will run from Wednesday, October 9 to Sunday, October 20, 2024. This prestigious event will celebrate the world premiere of “Blitz,” promising an unforgettable opening to the festival.

With its compelling narrative, star-studded cast, and the visionary direction of Steve McQueen, “Blitz” is set to be a memorable highlight of the 68th London Film Festival. Don’t miss the chance to witness this epic tale of resilience and hope in its world premiere.