London Film Fest Promises Daring Program, Star Transformations

The 69th BFI London Film Festival (LFF) begins on October 8, 2025. It will screen around 250 films over twelve days. The festival concludes on October 19.

This year’s selection includes 27 world premieres. It offers a mix of major international titles and homegrown British cinema.

A Puzzle of Opening and Closing Films

Rian Johnson’s new ‘Knives Out’ mystery, ‘Wake Up Dead Man,’ will open the festival. The closing night film is Julia Jackson’s ‘100 Nights of Hero.’ Festival Director Kristy Matheson explained these choices set the event’s tone.

She noted the celebratory feel of Johnson’s film. Its British stars and engaging story make a perfect kickoff. Jackson’s bold queer story provides a proud closing moment.

Daring Cinema and Global Voices

Matheson highlighted a trend of formally daring filmmaking this year. Many filmmakers are stretching the medium in new directions. The program team also noticed “totem animals,” with birds featuring prominently in several films.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, the lineup represents 79 countries. Strong work from the Middle East, North Africa, and Italy is particularly notable. Italy contributes several acclaimed films and series.

Thought you’d like to know

What is the opening film for LFF 2025?

The festival opens with ‘Wake Up Dead Man,’ the latest ‘Knives Out’ film from Rian Johnson. It stars Daniel Craig and features a large ensemble cast. The film is described as a fun and celebratory mystery.

How many films are in the festival?

The 2025 London Film Festival will screen approximately 250 titles. This includes features, shorts, and series presentations. There are 27 world premieres within the selection.

What are some highlighted world premieres?

Notable world premieres include ‘Moss & Freud,’ about the artist’s portrait of Kate Moss. The series ‘The Death of Bunny Monro,’ starring Matt Smith, also debuts. The documentary ‘Super Nature,’ shot on Super 8, is another highlight.

How diverse is the programming?

Forty-two percent of the films are from female or non-binary filmmakers. The lineup includes work from 79 different countries. The programming aims to reflect the diversity of London itself.

Is there an immersive experience?

The LFF Expanded section features a major installation called ‘NOWISWHENWEARE (the stars).’ It uses over 4,000 reactive LED lights to create a cosmic environment. This is a key part of the festival’s ambitious programming.