From offbeat French thrillers and Iranian existentialism to edgy Nollywood tales, BFI London Film Festival 2026’s bountiful global movie line-up proves subtitles aren’t a barrier to entertainment. The fate of breakout festival favourites from the last two years could hardly be more different. Gints Zilbalodis’ Flow (2024, Latvia), a mesmerizing,...

The 70th edition of the BFI London Film Festival kicks off on Wednesday 7 October with another captivating programme of over 250 features, shorts, series and immersive works from around the world. The Opening and Closing Night Galas each shine fascinating light on the world of theatre. Simon Stone’s lovingly...

PATRICK RYAN’S CRITICALLY ACCLAIMED short story collection The Dream Life of Astronauts (2017) marked him out as a writer to watch. His stories brim with rounded often-unforgettable characters living quietly, with yearning, humanity and acceptance. He is a master of dialogue, the unsentimental and the subtle. So when his debut...

ONE DAY THE CHILDREN AND I came home to see Hamad sitting in front of the TV. ‘Why’re you home early?’ Haris asked. ‘To spend time with you,’ Hamad said, patting his lap so Haris could go and sit with him. He only had to look at me in silence...