Steve Coogan and Judi Dench film will have gala screening at festival.
The Stephen Frear directed, Philomena will have its gala screening premiere at the 57th BFI London Film American Express Gala. The film will screen at Odeon Leicester Square on the 16th of October. This moving and funny story tells the tragic tale of Philomena Lee, whose young son was taken from her when she was moved to a convent in 1950′s Ireland. Knowing that her son was sent to America, Philomena spent the next 50 years of her life searching for her son but to no avail. That was until she meet inquisitive political journalist, Martin Sixsmith who was compelled by her story and set out on a journey to find her long lost son.
BFI Head of Exhibition and Festival Director, Clare Stewart said this about the announcement: ”I am thrilled that American Express, returning as our Principal Sponsor with a renewed three-year partnership, have Philomena for their gala this year heralding both their support of British film and on-going commitment to the BFI London Film Festival with a film of extraordinary potency and relevance. Stephen Frears demonstrates his customary flair for extracting brilliant performances and balancing cogent wit and deep pathos while Judi Dench and Steve Coogan adroitly navigate the tonal shifts between drama and humour and imbue their real-life characters with depth and dignity.”
The BFI London Film Festival 2013 runs between Wednesday 9th October and Sunday 20th October.
Sources: BFI