The BFI London Film Festival (LFF) kicked off its 2026 edition with the much-anticipated drama Elsinore, featuring a star-studded cast led by Andrew Scott and Olivia Colman. The opening gala, held at the Royal Festival Hall, proved particularly resonant given its proximity to the National Theatre, where the film's subject, Ian Charleson, famously performed his final Hamlet while battling AIDS in 1989.
Andrew Scott, who not only stars but also serves as a producer on the film, became visibly emotional on stage as he welcomed several individuals who inspired key characters in Elsinore. These included Professor Margaret Johnson, a pioneer in HIV/AIDS treatment, and Linda Tolhurst, the National Theatre's stage door keeper of 46 years, alongside Ian Charleson's sister, Lizzie. Scott expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to portray Charleson, calling it "the honor of a lifetime" to play such a "wickedly funny and joyful and talented and charming and beautiful" person, as reported by The Hollywood Reporter.
The film, directed by Simon Stone and written by Stephen Beresford, is described by co-star Luke Thompson as "a real love letter to theater." It chronicles Charleson's courageous final performances, offering a powerful look at artistry in the face of adversity. Following the screening, which earned a standing ovation for Scott, he encouraged the audience to remember Charleson's vibrant spirit, suggesting they dance out to an Ethel Merman song, an artist Charleson admired.
The cast also includes Billie Piper, Johnny Flynn, Peter Mullan, Joe Locke, Monica Dolan, and Juliet Stevenson, among others. Joe Locke, known for Heartstopper, shared with The Hollywood Reporter his emotional reaction to reading the script, recalling, "I was flying home for Christmas last year and I was reading it and couldn’t stop crying." Director Simon Stone also lauded Scott's performance, highlighting his unique ability to be equally magnetic on stage and screen.
Kristy Matheson, the artistic director of the BFI London Film Festival, explained the selection committee's profound connection to Elsinore. She noted that the film, rich with incredible British talent, explores themes of "radical care," community, activism, and the triumph of art, making it a powerful choice to launch the festival.
Elsinore marks the beginning of 10 days of cinematic celebrations across London, with premieres for films such as Artificial, Bunker, and Behemoth! also scheduled at the Royal Festival Hall.