The Chronicle Podcast Episode 71: BFI London Film Festival 2026 Highlights and Reviews
Another week has arrived, which can only mean one thing: another fine episode of your favourite film podcast, The Chronicle!
For Episode 71, I’m joined by fellow writers James and Rosie as we look back at some of our favourite films from this year’s BFI London Film Festival, which wrapped up earlier this month. From bold international cinema to powerful performances and emotionally charged dramas, we’re sharing the films that made the biggest impression on us.
BFI London Film Festival 2026: Our Favourite Films
Every October, the BFI London Film Festival brings together filmmakers and film lovers for one of the UK’s biggest cinematic celebrations. This year’s programme featured more than 250 feature films, shorts and television shows from 88 countries, offering audiences a diverse selection of stories from around the world.
Running from 7th to 18th October, the festival gave us plenty to talk about. In terms of the films we reviewed, this was arguably our strongest year yet! The festival opened with Elsinore, starring Andrew Scott, before closing with Jesse Eisenberg’s The Debut.
So, which films stood out from the crowd? James and Rosie join me to discuss some of the festival’s most memorable titles.
Artificial: Luca Guadagnino Explores the World of AI
First up is Artificial, Luca Guadagnino’s drama-thriller starring Andrew Garfield as Sam Altman. Set against the rapidly evolving world of artificial intelligence, the film revisits the extraordinary events surrounding OpenAI in 2023, when Altman was fired as CEO before being reinstated just days later.
With artificial intelligence continuing to shape our everyday lives, this is a story that feels particularly relevant. We discuss Guadagnino’s take on the events, Garfield’s performance and why the subject matter resonates so strongly today.
La Bola Negra: A Powerful Story of Love, Memory and Identity
Next, we turn to La Bola Negra, the critically acclaimed Spanish film selected as Spain’s entry for the Academy Awards’ International Feature Film category.
Spanning three different periods, this sweeping and emotionally charged story explores love, memory, inheritance and queer identity across three generations. It also examines the lives and stories erased by history, promising a thoughtful and fearless exploration of identity and belonging.
With its UK and Irish cinema release scheduled for 6th November, is La Bola Negra one to add to your watchlist?
Mike Leigh’s Tender Loving Care and Andrew Scott in Elsinore.
We also discuss Tender Loving Care, the latest kitchen-sink drama from acclaimed British filmmaker Mike Leigh. Known for his unflinching examinations of everyday life, Leigh once again tackles difficult emotions and uncomfortable truths. Could this be his final film?
Finally, we turn to Andrew Scott in Elsinore, exploring his portrayal of Scottish actor Ian Charleson. Best remembered by many for his role in Chariots of Fire, Charleson delivered a celebrated performance as Hamlet on stage shortly before his death. It’s a moving story of artistic achievement, courage and the power of theatre.
Do remember to check out our 2026 BFI London Film Festival coverage
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Join Paul, James and Rosie as we revisit the BFI London Film Festival 2026 and discuss the films that stayed with us long after the credits rolled.
Which of these films would make your festival watchlist? Let us know in the comments, and follow The Peoples Movies for more film reviews, festival coverage, entertainment news and podcast episodes.
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