European premiere for his Personal History Of David Copperfield

Armando Iannucci’s The Personal History Of David Copperfield is to open this year’s London Film Festival, in what will be its European premiere.

This film is described as a ‘fresh take’ on Charles Dickens’ classic novel, with a star-studded cast led by Dev Patel, Tilda Swinton and Hugh Laurie.

Also appearing are Peter Capaldi, Ben Whishaw, Paul Whitehouse and Gwendoline Christie, Benedict Wong and This Country’s Daisy May Cooper, many of whom are expected on the red carpet for the premiere in Leicester Square. 

As well as directing, Iannucci also wrote the script with Simon Blackwell, his long-term collaborator from In The Loop, and is producing with his  Death Of Stalin colleague Kevin Loader.

Iannucci said: ‘It’s a huge thrill and honour to be asked to open the fantastic BFI London Film Festival. The Personal History of David Copperfield is a film about compassion, humour, generosity and friendship, and I couldn’t have asked for a more welcoming setting in which to premiere it.’

Tricia Tuttle, director of the BFI London Film Festival added: ‘Armando Iannucci is one of the most prodigiously talented and original filmmakers hailing from the UK. 

‘The Personal History of David Copperfield shows his trademark wit and a joyous sense of style - it’s a delight from start to finish, with Dev Patel and co-stars delivering performances of megawatt charm and comic flair. 

‘I’m so excited to be opening the 63^rd BFI London Film Festival with this film which is not only wildly entertaining but also a timely celebration of the power of generosity and compassion.’

The 63rd BFI London Film Festival in partnership with American Express takes place from Wednesday October 2 to Sunday October 13. The full festival programme will be announced on  August 29.

Published: 16 Jul 2019