Steve McQueen’s latest feature, Blitz, is set to debut at the London Film Festival, offering a unique exploration of London during World War II. The film will follow the epic journey of a 9-year-old boy named George, played by Elliott Heffernan, who is sent to safety in the English countryside by his mother Rita, portrayed by Saoirse Ronan.
The synopsis of the film promises a gripping tale of defiance and determination as George embarks on an adventure to return home to his mother and grandfather in East London, despite facing immense peril along the way. Meanwhile, Rita desperately searches for her missing son, adding an emotional depth to the narrative.
Blitz boasts an impressive cast, with Saoirse Ronan leading the ensemble alongside newcomer Elliott Heffernan. The film also features renowned actors such as Harris Dickinson, Benjamin Clementine, and Stephen Graham, adding further star power to the project.
Directed, produced, and written by Steve McQueen, Blitz marks the filmmaker’s first sole feature screenwriting credit. McQueen’s production company Lammas Park collaborates with industry heavyweights Tim Bevan and Eric Fellner of Working Title Films, as well as producers from New Regency, to bring this ambitious project to life.
The world premiere of Blitz is set to take place at the Southbank Centre’s Royal Festival Hall, with simultaneous screenings across the UK. This marks McQueen’s return to the London Film Festival, having previously opened the event with Widows in 2018 and Mangrove in 2020.
According to McQueen, Blitz is not just a war film but a tribute to the resilience and spirit of Londoners during the blitz. The movie aims to explore the true representation of people in London, focusing on a working-class family’s struggle to reunite in the midst of war. This thematic depth adds a layer of complexity to the narrative, setting it apart from traditional war dramas.
Overall, Steve McQueen’s Blitz promises to be a thought-provoking and emotionally engaging film that offers a unique perspective on London during World War II. With a stellar cast, a talented creative team, and a compelling storyline, Blitz is poised to captivate audiences and leave a lasting impression at the London Film Festival.