The British Film Institute (BFI) has announced an exciting lineup of events and screenings for February 2024 at BFI Southbank. From special appearances by renowned directors and actors to curated seasons dedicated to influential filmmakers, this month promises to be a treat for film enthusiasts. Let’s explore the programme highlights for February 2024 at BFI Southbank.
1. Christopher Nolan’s BFI Fellowship
The month kicks off with a special celebration for acclaimed director Christopher Nolan, who will be receiving the prestigious BFI Fellowship. This honor recognizes Nolan’s remarkable contributions to cinema and his constant push to redefine large-scale filmmaking. On February 15th, BFI Southbank will host an In Conversation event with Christopher Nolan, where audiences will have the opportunity to hear firsthand about his extraordinary career and his latest film, “TENET.”
2. Magical Realism: The Film Fables of the Taviani Brothers
Running from February 1st to March 12th, the season “Magical Realism: The Film Fables of the Taviani Brothers” showcases the captivating work of Paolo and Vittorio Taviani. These filmmaking siblings have created a diverse body of work over their 60-year career, ranging from powerful allegorical period dramas to wickedly humorous literary adaptations. The season will be presented in partnership with Cinecittà and will feature screenings of their iconic films such as “PADRE PADRONE” and “KAOS.”
3. A League of Her Own: The Cinema of Dorothy Arzner
Dorothy Arzner, a trailblazing director who was the only woman working within the Hollywood studio system, will be celebrated in the season “A League of Her Own: The Cinema of Dorothy Arzner.” Curated by Caroline Cassin, the season will screen a selection of Arzner’s films that subverted traditional gender roles and explored the intersection of women’s working and romantic lives. The season will also include the UK premiere of the documentary “DOROTHY ARZNER: PIONEER, QUEER, FEMINIST” and special events such as a prohibition party and panel discussions.
4. John Barry: Soundtracking Bond and Beyond
John Barry, one of the UK’s greatest film composers, will be honored in the season “John Barry: Soundtracking Bond and Beyond.” Curated by Bob Stanley, the season will focus on Barry’s London years, showcasing his distinctive and darkly beautiful sound that defined iconic films like “GOLDFINGER” and “YOU ONLY LIVE TWICE.” Audiences will have the opportunity to attend a discussion titled “Spies, Swingers, and Shadows: The Films and Scores of John Barry,” where the significance of his work, especially for the James Bond franchise, will be explored.
5. The Anthropocene Trilogy: Jennifer Baichwal, Nicholas de Pencier, and Edward Burtynsky
This month, there will be a special focus on the award-winning Canadian filmmakers Jennifer Baichwal and Nicholas de Pencier, along with photographer Edward Burtynsky. Known for their powerful films that raise awareness about environmental issues, the focus will screen each of the three films from their “Anthropocene Trilogy.” The filmmakers will engage in panel discussions, introductions, and Q&As to shed light on the importance of recognizing and addressing our impact on the world.
6. Special Guests and Screenings
Throughout the month, BFI Southbank will welcome a range of special guests for Q&As, panel discussions, and screenings. Director Paulo Taviani, PEEP SHOW actors David Mitchell and Robert Webb, director Tim Mackenzie-Smith, and the creators of THE WAY Michael Sheen and James Graham are just a few of the notable figures who will be present. Additionally, the BFI Southbank and BFI IMAX will screen a selection of new releases and re-releases, including films like “ARGYLLE” and “THE ZONE OF INTEREST.”
The February 2024 programme at BFI Southbank promises an exciting lineup of events and screenings for film lovers. From honoring legendary directors like Christopher Nolan and Dorothy Arzner to showcasing the remarkable work of the Taviani Brothers and John Barry, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re a fan of magical realism, feminist cinema, or thought-provoking documentaries, make sure to mark your calendars and experience the magic of BFI Southbank this February.