Behind the Camera: Discover the Screen Talks at the 70th BFI London Film Festival

The 70th BFI London Film Festival is bringing some of the most celebrated names in international cinema together for its acclaimed Screen Talks programme, offering film enthusiasts a unique opportunity to explore the stories, creative processes and careers behind some of the screen’s most memorable works.

Running from 7 to 18 October 2026, the festival features an impressive selection of actors and filmmakers whose work has shaped contemporary cinema. This year’s Screen Talks line-up includes Andrew Scott, Ava DuVernay, Brad Bird, Cynthia Erivo, James Gray, Jesse Eisenberg, John Malkovich, Mahershala Ali, Naomi Ackie and Sofia Coppola. Renowned British director Danny Boyle will also participate in a special Screen Talk at HOME in Manchester, marking the first time the festival has hosted one of these events outside London.

Each conversation offers audiences an opportunity to gain insight into the experiences, inspirations and artistic decisions that define a creative career. From Andrew Scott’s acclaimed performances in All of Us Strangers and Ripleyto Ava DuVernay’s socially engaged filmmaking in Selma and 13th, the programme spans a remarkable range of genres, perspectives and storytelling approaches.

Animation and blockbuster filmmaking will also feature through Brad Bird, the Oscar-winning director behind The Incredibles and Ratatouille. Meanwhile, Cynthia Erivo will discuss her work across film, theatre and music, and Sofia Coppola will offer insight into her distinctive directorial style, seen in films such as Lost in Translation and Priscilla. Jesse Eisenberg, known for both his acting and directing, will discuss his career as he presents the festival’s Closing Night Gala film, The Debut.

Screen Talks are designed for anyone interested in understanding cinema beyond the finished film, including aspiring filmmakers, students, industry professionals and passionate moviegoers. The sessions take place at BFI Southbank, with Danny Boyle’s talk hosted at HOME in Manchester. Selected talks are also available to watch afterwards through BFI Player and the BFI’s YouTube channel.

How to Register

Tickets for Screen Talks cost £21 per person. To register, visit the official BFI London Film Festival website and follow the link to the festival’s programme and ticket-booking pages. Browse the individual Screen Talks, select your preferred event, check availability and book online. You will need to log in to view ticket prices and booking information.

Tickets went on general sale on 17 September 2026, with earlier booking available to BFI Members. As the festival runs until 18 October, some talks may already have taken place; availability for the remaining sessions should be checked on the official booking platform. Tickets can also be purchased by calling the BFI Box Office on 020 7928 3232 or in person at BFI Southbank.

For the full programme, event details and booking information, visit the official BFI London Film Festival website.

Whether you are an aspiring filmmaker looking for inspiration or a film lover curious about the people behind your favourite productions, the Screen Talks programme offers a valuable opportunity to hear directly from some of cinema’s most influential creative voices.