Movies
David Cronenberg's upcoming movie Eastern Promises is to open the London Film Festival.
The acclaimed director's latest offering, starring Viggo Mortenson, is a gangster story set in the city.
Cronenburg said he "couldn't wait" for the 51st London Film Festival which begins in October.
"Eastern Promises is the first film I've ever shot entirely away from my home in Canada," he explained. "It makes perfect sense that it is set in London, home of so many of my most potent film influences."
The film sees a midwife, played by Naomi Watts, threaten the criminal lifestyle of a Russian mobster.
Sandra Hebron, festival director, commented: "It's hugely exciting that a director who has consistently thrilled and challenged us throughout his career has made a film in our city.
"This gripping, powerfully directed and acted story of lives colliding in contemporary London is the perfect opener."
The full festival line-up is due to be revealed on September 13.
The acclaimed director's latest offering, starring Viggo Mortenson, is a gangster story set in the city.
Cronenburg said he "couldn't wait" for the 51st London Film Festival which begins in October.
"Eastern Promises is the first film I've ever shot entirely away from my home in Canada," he explained. "It makes perfect sense that it is set in London, home of so many of my most potent film influences."
The film sees a midwife, played by Naomi Watts, threaten the criminal lifestyle of a Russian mobster.
Sandra Hebron, festival director, commented: "It's hugely exciting that a director who has consistently thrilled and challenged us throughout his career has made a film in our city.
"This gripping, powerfully directed and acted story of lives colliding in contemporary London is the perfect opener."
The full festival line-up is due to be revealed on September 13.
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