The BFI London Film Festival will open with 'Elsinore', a biographical drama about Scottish actor Ian Charleson starring Andrew Scott and Olivia Colman. The opening night gala takes place October 7 at the Southbank Centre's Royal Festival Hall, with cast members including Scott, Colman, Billie Piper, Johnny Flynn, and Luke Thompson expected to attend. The film marks the European premiere for the feature.
'Elsinore' follows Charleson's final weeks before his death from AIDS while he played Hamlet at the National Theatre. StudioCanal will release the film in UK cinemas, though no date has been announced.
The festival selection highlights a story of one of Scotland's most acclaimed stage actors, who died in 1990 at age 40. Scott portrays Charleson, while Colman plays a supporting role. The film's title alludes to the castle setting of 'Hamlet', reflecting Charleson's iconic performance.
London Film Festival runs from October 7 to 18, with the full program expected in coming weeks. The opening slot traditionally goes to a high-profile British film, and 'Elsinore' continues that tradition with its star-studded cast and poignant narrative.