Daniel Craig and Other Stars to Premiere Films at London Film Festival

Organisers have announced that Daniel Craig is among several Hollywood figures whose awards-nominated films will be showcased at this year’s London Film Festival.

Other notable actors featured in the festival include Angelina Jolie, Zoe Saldaña, and Amy Adams. Craig’s latest movie, titled Queer, will have its British premiere at the event. Based on William Burroughs’ 1985 novel, the film explores the journey of a man within the American expatriate community in 1950s Mexico.

Daniel Craig’s performance in Queer has been met with strong acclaim following its world premiere at the Venice Film Festival. Critics have described his portrayal as «possibly his best screen performance.» However, the film itself has received mixed reviews, with one critic awarding it only two stars, indicating it attempts to be «too hip.»

The film is noted for featuring explicit depictions of gay relationships, with some reviews highlighting the film’s unique approach in this regard.

Angelina Jolie stars as renowned opera singer Maria Callas in one of the festival’s headline galas. Critics and awards analysts have predicted her performance may position her as a contender in the upcoming Oscars race.

Additionally, Zoe Saldaña is also considered a candidate for potential Academy Awards recognition for her role in Emilia Pérez, where she plays a high-powered lawyer aiding a Mexican cartel leader in faking their death and undergoing sex-reassignment operations.

The festival will screen Conclave, directed by Edward Berger, based on the Robert Harris novel focusing on the ancient processes of cardinals selecting a new Pope. Ralph Fiennes, one of the film’s stars, is anticipated to be a leading contender for best actor.

The London Film Festival will commence with the world premiere of Steve McQueen’s Blitz, a story about a mother and son during World War Two in London. The festival will close with a documentary and biopic titled Piece by Piece, utilizing lego animation to narrate its story.

Throughout its twelve days from October 9 to 20, the festival will display a total of 253 titles, including features, shorts, series, and immersive works. Screen talks by industry luminaries such as Steve McQueen, Lupita Nyong’o, and Daniel Kaluuya are also scheduled to take place during the event.