The film tells the story of the Peterloo massacre, which took place 199 years ago today, on 16 August 1819, and stars Rory Kinnear, Maxine Peake, Neil Bell, Philip Jackson, Vincent Franklin, Karl Johnson and Tim McInnerny.
The screening represents the first time the BFI London Film Festival has premiered a film outside of the capital, offering audiences in Manchester and nationwide the opportunity to preview a major release with Manchester’s history at its forefront.
Written and directed by Mike Leigh, Peterloo is an epic portrayal of the events surrounding the infamous 1819 Peterloo Massacre, where a peaceful pro-democracy rally at St Peter’s Field in Manchester turned into one of the bloodiest and most notorious episodes in British history.
The massacre saw British government forces charge into a crowd of over 60,000 that had gathered to demand political reform and protest against rising levels of poverty. Many protestors were killed and hundreds more injured, sparking a nationwide outcry but also further government suppression. The massacre was a defining moment in British democracy.
Mike Leigh says: “It’s always an honour to be included in the glorious London Film Festival, but how inspired and generous of the Festival to screen Peterloo in Manchester, where it all happened! I’m truly delighted!”
HOME’s Artistic Director of Film Jason Wood added:
“We’re thrilled to be hosting the UK premiere of Mike Leigh’s Peterloo, and to be a part of the BFI London Film Festival, marking the first time the festival has held a premiere outside London. It is fitting that Manchester audiences will be amongst the first to see this highly anticipated film which focusses on a pivotal event in our city’s and our nation’s political history. Thanks to eOne, the BFI and Mike Leigh for collaborating with HOME on this very special event.”
The event takes place on Wednesday 17 October, and will also include a Q&A with Leigh and the cast.
Tickets will go on sale to the public on 13 September, giving Manchester audiences the opportunity to be amongst the first to see the film.
