Saoirse Ronan stars in Steve McQueen’s “Blitz,” a historical drama set during the London Blitz. Ronan plays a mother searching for her son amidst the Nazi bombings. The film will premiere at the BFI London Film Festival and the New York Film Festival, and release in theaters and on Apple TV+.

Steve McQueen’s highly anticipated historical drama, “Blitz,” has released its first trailer, offering a gripping glimpse into the devastating impact of the Nazi bombings on Londoners during World War II. The film, an Apple Original, features Saoirse Ronan in the lead role of Rita, a mother frantically searching for her 9-year-old son George, played by newcomer Elliott Heffernan, after sending him away to the countryside for safety.

The narrative is set against the backdrop of the Blitz, a relentless bombing campaign waged by Nazi Germany against London in the early 1940s. As the city endures unimaginable destruction, Rita’s journey becomes a poignant portrayal of a mother’s love and resilience amidst the horrors of war. The ensemble cast includes Harris Dickinson, Erin Kellyman, Stephen Graham, Kathy Burke, Paul Weller, Leigh Gill, and Benjamin Clementine, each adding depth to the story of ordinary people caught in extraordinary circumstances.

Steve McQueen, acclaimed for his Oscar-winning film “12 Years a Slave,” returns to the big screen with “Blitz,” marking his first feature since 2018’s “Widows.” In addition to directing, McQueen wrote and produced the film, which aims to capture the indomitable spirit of Londoners during one of the city’s darkest periods. “Blitz” not only delves into the widespread devastation caused by the bombings but also explores the deep human connections and the fight for survival that defined this era.

Premiering on October 9 as the opening night gala at the BFI London Film Festival, “Blitz” will also be showcased at the New York Film Festival, drawing global attention to its powerful narrative and stellar cast. McQueen expressed his dedication to portraying the authentic experiences of Londoners during the Blitz, stating, “‘Blitz’ is a movie about Londoners. It honors the spirit of what and how Londoners endured during the Blitz, but also explores the true representation of people in London, while at its core is the story of a working-class family desperate to be reunited during times of war.”

Produced by McQueen’s Lammas Park alongside Tim Bevan and Eric Fellner of Working Title Films, as well as Arnon Milchan, Yariv Milchan, and Michael Schaefer for New Regency, “Blitz” promises to be a stirring tribute to the endurance and courage of those who lived through the bombings. The film’s world premiere at the BFI London Film Festival is set to be a highlight of the cinematic calendar, with critics and audiences alike eagerly anticipating its portrayal of wartime London.

Following its festival screenings, “Blitz” will have a limited theatrical release on November 1 before streaming globally on Apple TV+ starting November 22. This dual release strategy aims to reach a wide audience, allowing viewers around the world to experience the powerful story of a city and its people under siege.

With its compelling performances, historical backdrop, and McQueen’s masterful storytelling, “Blitz” is poised to be one of the standout films of the year. The trailer, which you can watch below, sets the stage for an emotionally charged journey that highlights the strength of the human spirit in the face of unimaginable adversity.

Watch the trailer for “Blitz” below.

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