After a year-long hiatus, Deadline’s highly anticipated Contenders film series is back in action, this time in London. Set to take place at the elegant Ham Yard Hotel, the event boasts an impressive lineup of panelists, including renowned filmmakers Ridley Scott, Emerald Fennell, Todd Haynes, and Michael Mann. Spanning across eight studios and streamers, Contenders London will shine a spotlight on 13 of this year’s most buzzworthy films. As the day unfolds, captivating discussions are expected to ensue, offering a glimpse into the cinematic journeys that await us in the future.
In a world facing unprecedented challenges, the return of Contenders London serves as a reminder that the magic of quality cinema is never too far away. These films, created by some of the industry’s biggest talents, promise to transport audiences into uncharted territories, both visually and emotionally. From Ridley Scott’s ambitious project, “Napoleon,” to Emerald Fennell’s intriguing “Saltburn,” and Todd Hayne’s captivating “May December,” each film holds the potential to leave an indelible mark on the world of cinema.
This year’s lineup also brings a diverse range of narratives to the forefront. J.A. Bayona’s “Society of the Snow” and Jeymes Samuel’s “The Book of Clarence” offer unique cultural perspectives, drawing audiences into untold stories from around the globe. Christos Nikou’s “Fingernails” and the deep dive into “Nyad,” by Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi, offer glimpses into the human psyche, challenging conventional storytelling norms. The dynamic teams behind Martin Scorsese’s “Killers of the Flower Moon” and David Fincher’s “The Killer” are set to offer insights into their creative process, further fueling anticipation for these highly anticipated projects.
While actors may not be gracing this year’s panel, it is crucial to recognize the unsung heroes who bring cinematic visions to life. Contenders London offers a rare opportunity to delve into the minds of these industry legends. From prosthetics make-up designer Kazu Hiro, who magically transformed Gary Oldman into Winston Churchill for “The Darkest Hour,” to Aardman’s animation production designer Darren Dubicki, responsible for the iconic look of “Chicken Run: Dawn of the Nugget,” and costume designer Janty Yates, known for her masterful craft in working with Ridley Scott on projects like “Napoleon” – their creative contributions are pivotal in creating immersive cinematic experiences.
Greta Gerwig’s highly anticipated “Barbie” provides a colorful and whimsical landscape for panelists to explore during Contenders London. Production designer Sarah Greenwood, costume designer Jacqueline Durran, and hair and makeup designer Ivana Primorac, among others, will share their experiences in bringing the world of Barbie to life on the big screen. Their ability to seamlessly transition from grittier, historical projects to the fantastical realm of Barbie showcases the timeless allure of great cinema, regardless of genre or tone.
The festivities of Contenders London will commence with a breakfast at 8:30 a.m., setting the stage for a day filled with enriching discussions and insightful conversations. As the sole sponsor of this year’s event, Eyepetizer exemplifies its commitment to promoting and nurturing the future of cinema. In a world hungry for new stories, Contenders London promises to ignite inspiration and innovation, paving the way for a new era of filmmaking that pushes boundaries and captivates audiences worldwide. Join in on the excitement and follow the event’s coverage throughout the day on Deadline’s website and social channels, using the hashtag #DeadlineContenders. The future of cinema awaits – are you ready?
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