Andy Serkis’ directorial debut Breathe is set to open the 2017 Bfi London Film Festival.
Best known for his motion-capture acting roles, like Gollum in The Lord of the Rings films and Caesar in the latest Planet of the Apes flicks, the English actor has turned his attention to filmmaking recently.
Breathe is based on the true story of British advocate for the disabled Robin Cavendish, who was paralyzed with polio at 28 and given just three months to live. He eventually lived to the age of 64, leading a fulfilled life with his wife Diana.
“Breathe is a deeply personal story to all of us at The Imaginarium and to have the European premiere of my directorial debut in London, my hometown, is beyond my wildest dreams,” Serkis said in a statement.
Cavendish’s son Jonathan produced the movie, which stars Andrew Garfield in the lead role and Claire Foy as Diana.
As well as Breathe, Serkis is also working on another retelling of The Jungle Book, with his version slated for 2018, starring Benedict Cumberbatch, Christian Bale, and Cate Blanchett. Serkis also stars in the jungle adventure, as bear Baloo.
The 61st London Film Festival runs from 4 to 15 October (17). The full festival program will be announced at the end of August.
