BFI London Film Festival 2026 Screen Talks: Scott, Erivo, Ali Lead Star-Studded Lineup
Andrew Scott, Cynthia Erivo, and Mahershala Ali headline the BFI London Film Festival's 2026 Screen Talks programme, which also expands to Manchester.
The BFI London Film Festival has unveiled the roster for its 2026 Screen Talks, bringing a host of acclaimed actors and directors into conversation with audiences. The programme for the festival's 70th edition will feature in-depth discussions on craft, career, and creative influences.
Among the actors confirmed are Andrew Scott, known for 'Sherlock' and 'Fleabag'; Oscar nominee Cynthia Erivo of 'Wicked'; and two-time Academy Award winner Mahershala Ali, celebrated for 'Moonlight' and 'Green Book'. Jesse Eisenberg, who has moved between acting and directing since 'The Social Network', will also take part.
The lineup extends to veteran performer John Malkovich, with a filmography including 'Being John Malkovich' and 'Dangerous Liaisons'. Filmmakers Sofia Coppola, Ava DuVernay, Brad Bird, and James Gray are also set to appear, alongside British actress Naomi Ackie and director Danny Boyle.
Boyle's session will be a landmark for the festival, as it is scheduled to take place in Manchester. This marks the first time a Screen Talk will be held outside London, expanding the event's reach beyond its traditional home at BFI Southbank.
Attendees can expect Scott to discuss 'Elsinore', the festival's opening film. The feature, written by BAFTA winner Stephen Beresford, stars Scott alongside Olivia Colman and Billie Piper. It dramatises the final weeks of actor Ian Charleson, who stepped into the role of Hamlet at the National Theatre after Daniel Day-Lewis withdrew from the production.
Eisenberg is slated to talk about 'The Debut', which will close the festival. The film follows a shy woman who lands a part in a community theatre musical and becomes increasingly consumed by the production under a mysterious director. It stars Julianne Moore and Paul Giamatti.
The full programme for the 70th BFI London Film Festival is expected to be announced later. The festival is scheduled to run from October 7 to 18, 2026.