Bill Nighy Film ‘Joy,’ About World’s First IVF Baby, Set to Premiere at BFI London Film Festival

Bill Nighy starrer “Joy” is set to world premiere at the BFI London Film Festival.

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Written by Jack Thorne (“His Dark Materials”) and directed by Ben Taylor (“Sex Education”), the film sees Nighy play surgeon Patrick Steptoe as he joins forces with scientist Robert Edwards (played by James Norton) and nurse and embryologist Jean Purdy (Thomasin McKenzie), to create the world’s first IVF baby in 1978.

“The beautifully crafted period drama celebrates the power of perseverance and the wonders of science as it follows this maverick trio of visionaries who overcame tremendous odds and opposition to realise their dream, and in doing so allowed millions of people to dream with them,” reads the synopsis.

The film will premiere on Oct. 15 at this year’s Cunard Gala, with Nighy, Norton and McKenzie all set to attend. It will premiere on Netflix on Nov. 22.

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“I am truly honoured that my debut film, ‘Joy,’ will receive its world premiere at this year’s BFI London Film Festival,” said Taylor. “This is a far too little-known story of British scientific achievement and it feels perfect to celebrate these three maverick pioneers – and their world changing innovation of IVF – here at home. ‘Joy’ is a very personal story for me, as I am sure it will be for many of our audience. But beyond the personal, I hope this film will have all the more resonance today when infertility and issues of choice are so much in the spotlight.”

Kristy Matheson, BFI London Film Festival Director, added: “We’re honoured to present the world premiere of ‘Joy.’ It’s a beautifully made film with terrific performances throughout and we’ve no doubt that audiences will be as moved as we were by this inspiring true story and the lasting impact it’s had on so many.”

The 68th BFI London Film Festival is set to take place in the U.K.’s capital from Oct. 9 to 20.

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