London Film Festival 2005

The 49th London Film Festival runs from October 19th to November 3rd and as usual provides an eclectic cinematic mix from all over the world. Tiscali will be on hand to bring you the latest news and reviews, and here's our guide to the hottest tickets in town over the next few weeks.

For full listings, and booking information, check the official website at www.lff.org.uk

BAD SANTA
Billy Bob Thornton gives the performance of his career as a down-on-his-luck Santa Claus who is much more interested in wine and women than he is the festive spirit.
Full Review

VERA DRAKE
Already a smash at the Venice Festival where it won the award for best film, Mike Leigh's new film deals with the taboo subject of abortion in the 1950s and the Oscar-talk for star Imelda Staunton is getting louder.

MY SUMMER OF LOVE
Hugely anticipated follow-up to Pawel Pawlikowski's brilliant Last Resort, this features Paddy Considine as a religious zealot trying to instil the word in his sister, who has very different ideas.
Full Review

I HEART HUCKABEES
It's been five years since David Russell made Three Kings and the set gossip from his latest surreal epic, about two existential detectives, has whetted appetites for the last year.

THE LIZARD
A petty thief in Iran escapes and disguises himself as a Mullah. Mamal Tabrizi's film is now banned in its native country but it's a deliciously wry comedy with a decent heart.

ENDURING LOVE
This English psychological drama - based on Ian McEwen's best-seller - should make Daniel Craig's star rise even further.

2046
Shrouded in mystery, Wong Kar-Wai's latest has taken on mythical status since he announced production and is the most eagerly-awaited film of the Festival.

THE WOODSMAN
Kevin Bacon takes on the tricky role of a paedophile just out of prison in this issues-based drama that has already sparked talk of an Oscar nomination.
Full Review

THE MANCHURIAN CANDIDATE
Denzel Washington is as usual hugely impressive in this tight re-interpretation of the classic novel, filmed with Frank Sinatra in 1961.
Full Review

HOLE IN MY HEART
Lukas Moodyson's latest has had critics and public alike walking out of cinemas due to its disturbing look at the world of home pornography.