2005 London Film Festival opens tonight

The 2005 London Film Festival (LFF) kicks off tonight, with screenings of around 180 films taking place until 3 November.

The event, which will be 50 years old next year, begins with a gala screening of The Constant Gardener, based on John Le Carre’s novel of the same name. Ralph Fiennes and Le Carre will attend the showing, alongside co-star Rachel Weisz.

A-list stars like Gwyneth Paltrow and Kirsten Dunst will be in attendance, though George Clooney might not show up, despite the fact that his film Good Night And Good Luck is closing the festival, by way of a British premiere. It is Clooney’s second film as director.

This might be explained by the simple fact that George won’t be taking home any awards. Word To The Wise: it’s just not that kind of show. See, the LFF doesn’t bother with trophies and shortlists, unlike some of the other world cinema events. Some say this keeps the likes of Clooney away.

But then who cares about awards when bright young Mexican actor and hecklerspray favourite Gael Garcia Bernal is going be speaking at the event, as will Fear And Loathing director Terry Gilliam. And not from some glitterball podium, amid tears and thanks and talk of God and family.

Instead, the focus is on quality - rather than backslapping - and the agenda is broad, with documentaries and shorts featured throughout the event. All in all, films from around 50 countries will be shown, making the LFF arguably the best festival for multicultural film.

Tips? Well, music-lovin’ movie fans making the pilgrimage should look out for Joaquin Phoenix as Johnny Cash in Walk The Line, which we’re tipping for an Oscar (and no, we ain’t seen it yet either).

Also, look out for World’s Greatest Actor Paddy Considine in Stoned, the biopic on the tragic Brian Jones. More music joy (and discomfort) in You’re Gonna Miss Me, which pays homage to Roky Erickson of The 13th Floor Elevators, who is now being cared for his elderly mother after a sustained abuse of the senses by himself and others. Thurston Moore and Patti Smith are in it. Say no more.

Finally, there’s a charming nature documentary worth seeing called March of the Penguins, although we’ve yet to determine whether this has anything to do with Wallace and Gromit, and that bloody Were-Rabbit. Until that has been cleared up we’ll be playing safe.

So the red carpets are out. 13 London cinemas to choose from. Put the posh frock on, deary.

>>> more highlights from the official London Film Festival website