Emma Corrin and Maika Monroe Shine at London Film Festival Premiere of ‘100 Nights of Hero’

The 2025 BFI London Film Festival drew to a dazzling close on Sunday night with the premiere of Julia Jackman’s highly anticipated sophomore feature, 100 Nights of Hero, bringing together a star-studded cast and leaving audiences enthralled. The film, which also stars Felicity Jones, Amir El-Masry, Richard E. Grant, Nicholas Galitzine, and Charli XCX, showcased a compelling mix of fantasy, drama, and visual spectacle that highlighted Jackman’s unique directorial voice.

A Glamorous Closing Night

The final night of the festival was hosted at London’s Royal Festival Hall, where the red carpet sparkled with A-listers and festival-goers alike. Among those attending were Emma Corrin, portraying the resourceful Hero, and Maika Monroe, who plays Cherry, a character caught in the midst of palace intrigue. Also present were Julia Jackman, Felicity Jones, Amir El-Masry, and the venerable Richard E. Grant, all contributing to a glamorous celebration of cinema.

Although Nicholas Galitzine and Charli XCX were unable to attend, their performances in the film drew praise, with critics noting their contributions to the story’s intricate blend of fantasy and drama.

The Story of ‘100 Nights of Hero’

Adapted from Isabel Greenberg’s graphic novel, 100 Nights of Hero transports viewers to a fairytale kingdom filled with intrigue, danger, and clever storytelling. The narrative centers on Cherry (Monroe) and her husband Jerome (El-Masry), who seem to live a perfect life until their inability to conceive an heir triggers a chain of unexpected events.

The conflict escalates when Jerome disappears and his charismatic friend, Manfred (Galitzine), arrives with questionable intentions. At the heart of the story is Hero (Corrin), Cherry’s loyal and clever maid, who must use her wits and storytelling skills to protect her mistress and the kingdom. Hero spins tales of rebellious women to distract Manfred, blending fantasy and moral lessons into a narrative that is as visually rich as it is emotionally engaging.

Jackman’s direction brings Greenberg’s vivid illustrations to life, using a combination of cinematic techniques, intricate set design, and a bold color palette to immerse audiences in a world that feels both magical and grounded in character-driven storytelling.

Star Power and Standout Performances

Emma Corrin delivers a performance that balances cunning intelligence with genuine warmth, making Hero an unforgettable protagonist. Critics have praised Corrin’s ability to convey nuanced emotions through subtle expressions, capturing both Hero’s loyalty and her determination to protect those she loves.

Maika Monroe, as Cherry, brings a blend of vulnerability and resilience to her role, anchoring the film’s emotional core. Her on-screen chemistry with Amir El-Masry’s Jerome adds depth to the narrative, highlighting the stakes of their seemingly idyllic life.

Felicity Jones, Richard E. Grant, and Amir El-Masry contribute memorable supporting performances, each adding layers to the intricate palace drama. While Nicholas Galitzine and Charli XCX were absent from the premiere, their roles are integral to the story, with Galitzine’s Manfred providing a charismatic foil to Hero’s clever maneuvers, and XCX adding a playful musical dimension that enhances the film’s whimsical tone.

Critical Reception and Festival Buzz

The premiere of 100 Nights of Hero marked a fitting conclusion to a festival packed with high-profile films and celebrated talent. Critics praised the film for its innovative visual storytelling, strong performances, and engaging narrative, with particular attention paid to Jackman’s adaptation of Greenberg’s graphic novel.

Festival attendees were treated to an immersive experience, from the carefully curated score to the richly detailed production design. Audience reactions were overwhelmingly positive, with many noting that the film’s blend of fantasy and moral storytelling sets it apart from traditional fairytale adaptations.

A Promising Future for Julia Jackman

As her sophomore feature, 100 Nights of Hero solidifies Julia Jackman’s reputation as a director with a distinct cinematic vision and flair for storytelling. By successfully translating a graphic novel to the big screen while maintaining a sense of originality and emotional resonance, Jackman demonstrates a growing mastery of the medium.

The premiere also signals a continued appetite for films that combine fantasy, social commentary, and visually compelling narratives, positioning Jackman as a director to watch in the coming years.

Closing Thoughts

100 Nights of Hero wraps up the 2025 London Film Festival on a high note, offering audiences a visually stunning and emotionally engaging cinematic experience. With standout performances from Emma Corrin and Maika Monroe and a talented ensemble cast, the film highlights the power of storytelling and imagination in contemporary cinema.

As the festival doors closed and the cast celebrated their premiere, it was clear that 100 Nights of Hero not only honors its graphic novel roots but also expands upon them, creating a rich, immersive fantasy world that promises to resonate with audiences long after the credits roll.

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