The 70th BFI London Film Festival runs from 7–18 October 2026, with ten films selected for its prestigious Official Competition and Best Film Award.
1. Ten films are competing for Best Film
The line-up includes 7 Miles Out, Act 3, Glaxo, Imperium, Ketticè, Look Back, My Notes on Mars, The Difficult Bride, The Idiot(s) and Woman Unknown.
2. Some major international filmmakers are involved
This year’s competition includes new work from Hirokazu Kore-eda, Carol Morley, Sergei Loznitsa, Lili Horvát and Małgorzata Szumowska, with filmmakers representing countries across Europe, Asia and South America.
3. Aimee Lou Wood and Johnny Flynn appear in one of the selections
They star in The Idiot(s) as Anna and Fyodor Dostoevsky in a period drama exploring the writer’s marriage, creativity, gambling and self-destruction.
4. The films will screen at BFI Southbank
BFI Southbank will once again host the Official Competition titles, with further documentary, first feature and short film competition selections still to be announced.
5. Tickets go on general sale in September
The full festival programme will be announced on 2 September, with general ticket sales opening on 17 September 2026. BFI members receive earlier booking access.
When: 7–18 October 2026
Where: BFI Southbank and other festival venues
Find out more and book: BFI London Film Festival