The Talk: A Masterclass with Sofia Coppola
Forget just watching a movie; how about learning from a modern master? Sofia Coppola is joining the festival's acclaimed Screen Talks series. Hearing the Oscar-winning filmmaker behind 'Lost in Translation' and 'Priscilla' discuss her career is an unmissable
opportunity. The payoff here isn't just a screening, but a rare chance to get inside the head of one of America's most distinctive cinematic voices, especially as a documentary on the making of her film 'Marie Antoinette' also features in the festival.
The Restoration: Powell and Pressburger’s ‘Gone to Earth’
Seeing a classic on the big screen is one thing. Seeing a newly restored classic presented by the BFI Archive is another level of cinephilia. 'Gone to Earth', a lush Technicolor drama from the legendary duo of Michael Powell and Emeric Pressburger, has been meticulously restored. This Archive Special Presentation offers the chance to see a misunderstood gem in its full, intended glory—a vibrant, visual feast that many will be discovering for the first time.
The Auteur: James Gray’s ‘Paper Tiger’
James Gray is a filmmaker's filmmaker, and any new film from him is an event. 'Paper Tiger' is his latest, a crime drama that reunites Adam Driver and Scarlett Johansson. Gray's work, from 'We Own the Night' to 'Armageddon Time', is known for its classical style and moral complexity. The payoff is witnessing a top-tier director working with A-list talent on an original story—an increasingly rare treat in today's cinematic landscape. He'll also be giving a Screen Talk during the festival.
The Provocation: Ava DuVernay's Documentary ‘14th’
Ten years after her seismic documentary '13th', Ava DuVernay returns to the U.S. Constitution with '14th'. As the festival's Documentary Special Presentation, this film promises a rigorous and challenging examination of the 14th amendment. For cinephiles who believe film should engage with the world and spark debate, this is an essential booking. The payoff is being part of a vital cultural conversation, spurred by one of the most important political filmmakers working today. DuVernay will also deliver a Screen Talk.
The Discovery: ‘Wicker’
Every festival has its breakout hits. Early buzz suggests 'Wicker' could be one of them. Based on a short story, the film stars Olivia Colman in a medieval folk tale about a lonely woman who commissions a basket-maker to construct her a husband. Described as a 'tasteful assault on the senses', this is the kind of unique, director-driven film that festivals are made for. The payoff is being ahead of the curve and seeing a strange, beautiful film before it becomes a word-of-mouth sensation.
The Comeback: Andrey Zvyagintsev's 'Minotaur'
Russian director Andrey Zvyagintsev ('Leviathan', 'Loveless') is a titan of world cinema. His new thriller 'Minotaur' marks a major return. Described as a political allegory dissecting ego and corruption, it's the kind of dense, rewarding filmmaking that cinephiles crave. Seeing a new Zvyagintsev is a commitment, but the payoff is experiencing the work of a profound cinematic artist at the peak of his powers, telling stories no one else can.
The Performance: Andrew Scott in ‘Elsinore’
The festival's opening night film is built around a monumental performance. Andrew Scott stars as actor Ian Charleson, who famously took on the role of Hamlet while secretly battling a serious illness. Scott is one of the most compelling actors of his generation, and 'Elsinore' promises a heartbreaking look at art, life, and mortality. The payoff is witnessing a tour-de-force performance that will undoubtedly be a major contender come awards season.
The Animation: Brad Bird's ‘Ray Gunn’
For those who believe animation is cinema, the world premiere of Brad Bird’s 'Ray Gunn' is a must. Bird, the genius behind 'The Incredibles' and 'Ratatouille', is a master storyteller. This neo-noir detective caper, which he first conceived over 30 years ago, features voice work from Sam Rockwell and Scarlett Johansson. The payoff is seeing a passion project from an animation legend finally come to life—a guaranteed visual and narrative treat. Bird will also be participating in a Screen Talk.
The Experience: ‘Water Body’
For the adventurous cinephile, the LFF Expanded program offers a glimpse into the future of storytelling. This year's Immersive Special Presentation is 'Water Body', an installation by Marshmallow Laser Feast that explores the hidden connections within our planet's ecosystems. Held in a new venue, this isn't a passive viewing experience. The payoff is stepping beyond the traditional screen and engaging with a story in a powerful, physical way, challenging your definition of what 'cinema' can be.
The Wildcard: Ken Russell's ‘The Devils’
True cinephiles don't just look forward; they look back. The festival is screening Ken Russell's notorious 1971 masterpiece 'The Devils', a film still capable of shocking and provoking audiences today. This isn't just a repertory screening; it's an event. Seeing this fiercely political and artistically audacious film with a festival audience is the ultimate cult experience. The payoff is connecting with a piece of rebel cinema history that feels more relevant than ever.
