Movie News

Mayor says London film is booming

Thu 19 Oct 9:58 PM

London Mayor Ken Livingstone gave the capital a pat on the back at tonight's Mayor of London gala screening of new film Venus.

He said: "25 years ago the London film industry was on its knees. Now it's really big, dynamic and it's a real part of London."

Ken, speaking at the London Film Festival event, added: "Everything about London and film is really working, it's almost 10% of the London economy [that] is on the film industry.

"We've become the third largest production centre after LA and New York."

Venus had a personal significance for him, he revealed, since its legendary lead Peter O'Toole "lives round the corner" from him.

And the mayor is making the most of the 50th anniversary festival this year, revealing he's looking forward to one movie in particular.

"The film about Bobby Kennedy and his assassination," he said, referring to Bobby, by actor-turned-director Emilio Estevez.

Bobby focuses less on the politician and his death, and more on its impact on the generation that experienced it.

Ken explained: "I think that was a turning point in American politics - it unleashed a tide of reaction."

And looking to the future, he revealed he's already thinking about Christmas - and presents in particular.

"For London, I want the gift of Crossrail - and for me, I want the defeat of all my enemies."