by FilmInk Staff
A host of Britain’s finest stars feature in the first highlights of the 2026 Russell Hobbs British Film Festival, announced today. Presented by Palace, this year’s festival includes a spectacular line up of dramas, diverse and illuminating documentaries, romantic comedies and more, all screening at Palace Cinemas, Palace Nova and Luna Palace Cinemas from 28 October.
One of the most talked about films to hit the festival circuit of late is romantic comedy WICKER. Starring acclaimed British actress Olivia Colman and the brilliant Alexander Skarsgård, this hilarious, raunchy and irresistible fable tells the tale of an ostracised fisherwoman and the sexy husband she wishes for.
Visceral historical drama THE UPRISING stars Andrew Garfield as a grief-stricken labourer in the 14th century who ignites a peasant’s revolt. The films also stars Jamie Bell, Stephen Dillane and Katherine Waterston.
Documentary PARKY is an intimate portrait of ‘the king of the chat show’ Sir Michael Parkinson. Over a career spanning five decades, Britain’s greatest interviewer was beloved by millions and knighted by the Queen. His legendary interview subjects ranged from Muhammad Ali to Billy Connolly, Kylie Minogue, Bob Hawke, Madonna, and Sir David Attenborough, many of whom feature in this revealing documentary.
Richard E. Grant and Claire Foy lead the cast of SAVAGE HOUSE, a darkly comedic, cautionary tale of greed, ambition and power. Two desperate social climbers in 18th century England sacrifice everything to host the aspirational dinner party of their dreams, in this sumptuously crafted period piece.
The much-loved Bill Nighy stars in the poignant drama , 500 MILES which follows a broken family that must come together as two young brothers embark on an epic journey to reunite with their estranged grandfather. Set across breathtaking landscapes of Ireland, from iconic locations in Dublin to the sweeping Dingle Peninsula, 500 MILES artfully explores the complexities of families and the forces that pull them apart and reunite them.
Writer-director Nick Moorcraft (Fisherman’s Friends: One and All, BFF22) returns with MOTHER’S PRIDE, a deeply moving and heartfelt comedy. Jonno Davies stars as Cal, a man rediscovering purpose and connection as he returns to his small country hometown. After a series of misfortunes, he works to re-invigorate his family’s pub which is on the brink of closure.
The Russell Hobbs British Film Festival opens on Wednesday 28 October in Sydney, Melbourne, Ballarat, Byron Bay, Canberra and Adelaide, Thursday 29 October in Brisbane and Thursday 5 November in Perth.
The full programme to be announced and tickets on sale in early October.
www.britishfilmfestival.com.au
The Russell Hobbs British Film Festival presented by Palace screens in the following locations:
Canberra: 28 Oct – 29 Nov, Palace Electric Cinemas
Adelaide: 28 Oct – 29 Nov, Palace Nova Eastend Cinemas, Palace Nova Prospect Cinemas
Melbourne: 28 Oct – 29 Nov, The Astor Theatre, Palace Balwyn, Palace Brighton Bay, Palace Cinema Como, Palace Westgarth, Palace Penny Lane, The Kino, Pentridge Cinema, Palace Church St
Ballarat: 28 Oct – 29 Nov, Palace Regent Ballarat
Sydney: 28 Oct – 29 Nov, Palace Norton Street, Palace Moore Park, Palace Central
Byron Bay: 28 Oct – 29 Nov, Palace Byron Bay, Ballina Fair Cinemas
Brisbane: 29 Oct – 29 Nov, Palace Barracks, Palace James Street
Perth: 5 Nov – 6 Dec, Palace Raine Square, Luna on SX, Leederville and Windsor
