FRANKENWEENIE to Open BFI London Film Festival; Video Interview with Producer Allison Abbate & Festival Director Clare Stewart

The 56th BFI London Film Festival in partnership with American Express is delighted to announce that this year's Festival will open on Wednesday 10 October with the European Premiere of Disney's FRANKENWEENIE, directed by acclaimed filmmaker Tim Burton.

From creative genius Tim Burton (Alice in Wonderland, The Nightmare Before Christmas) comes Frankenweenie, a heartwarming tale about a boy and his dog. After unexpectedly losing his beloved dog Sparky, young Victor harnesses the power of science to bring his best friend back to life-with just a few minor adjustments. He tries to hide his home-sewn creation, but when Sparky gets out, Victor's fellow students, teachers and the entire town all learn that getting a new "leash on life" can be monstrous.

The 56th BFI London Film Festival in partnership with American Express is delighted to announce that this year's Festival will open on Wednesday 10 October with the European Premiere of Disney's FRANKENWEENIE, directed by acclaimed filmmaker Tim Burton. He, along with stars Ryder, Short, O’Hara, Landau, producer Allison Abbate and executive producer Don Hahn are expected to attend the premiere.

In partnership with American Express and Disney, and in a first for the Festival, the Opening Night screening and red carpet will go live from Odeon Leicester Square to BFI Imax and 30 screens across the UK. The Festival will also host The Art of Frankenweenie Exhibition from 17-21 October. In this video interview, Clare Stewart, Festival Director of the BFI London Film Festival and Allison Abbate, Producer of Frankenweenie discuss the film.

Presented by Disney, Frankenweenie is directed by Tim Burton, produced by Tim Burton and Allison Abbate, from a screenplay by John August, based on an original idea by Tim Burton. Frankenweenie releases in U.S. theaters on October 5, 2012.