The 68th BFI London Film Festival was ablaze with cinematic glory as it featured the world premiere of “September Says”, a drama that has already begun to etch its place in the hearts of film lovers worldwide. Directed by Ariane Labed, in what marks her highly anticipated directorial debut, this film is a screen adaptation of Daisy Johnson’s novel “Sisters” and promises to offer an unforgettable experience by exploring the delicate and complex ties between two sisters.

September Says Premiere at London Film Festival

The premiere of “September Says” at the Odeon Luxe Leicester Square was nothing short of spectacular. The event saw Mia Tharia and Pascale Kann grace the red carpet, alongside other cast members and industry professionals. The energy at the premiere was palpable, with critics and fans alike eager to witness Labed’s debut as a director.

As the lights dimmed and the film began, it quickly became evident that Labed’s visual storytelling would leave a lasting impact. Following its initial acclaim at Cannes, the film was met with a roaring reception, with many attendees hailing it as a cinematic masterpiece. The premiere also sparked a wider conversation about the emergence of women directors in the film industry, with Labed being celebrated for her bold and nuanced storytelling approach.

Ariane Labed has long been known as a gifted actress, but with “September Says,” she firmly establishes herself as a director to watch. Her directorial debut is a testament to her keen understanding of human relationships and emotional tension.

Labed approaches the film with intensity and subtlety, allowing the characters’ emotions to gradually unfold without over-explaining the plot. The use of visual metaphors—such as the recurring imagery of water and mirrors—serves to highlight the duality of the sisters’ bond, illustrating both their closeness and the divide between them. Labed’s eye for detail creates an immersive atmosphere that draws audiences into the heart of the story.

The film’s cinematography—with its muted tones and moody settings—perfectly complements the underlying tension of the narrative. Combined with a haunting score, Labed has crafted a film that not only entertains but also challenges viewers to reflect on the emotional complexity of sibling relationships.

The response to “September Says” has been overwhelmingly positive. Fans flooded social media, particularly Twitter, with hashtags like #SeptemberSays and #LondonFilmFestival, expressing their admiration for the film. The psychological depth of the story and the performances of the lead actors were highlighted as standout features.

Critics have lauded Labed’s directorial skills and the film’s emotional intensity, with some calling it a strong Oscar contender. Many have praised Tharia and Kann’s powerful performances, noting their ability to bring authenticity and emotional weight to their characters. As the film heads towards its wider release on Netflix on November 18, 2024, it is poised to reach an even broader audience.

From its star-studded cast to its powerful narrative and visual brilliance, “September Says” is a gem that has captured both critical and audience acclaim, making it one of the standout films of the festival.

September Says Synopsis

At its heart, “September Says” is a film about two sisters, July and September, whose bond is as unsettling as it is magnetic. July, played by Mia Tharia, is a shy, introverted teenager struggling with anxiety, while her older sister September, portrayed by Pascale Kann, exudes charisma and dominance. Their relationship spirals into a psychological exploration of love, obsession, and control.

The haunting atmosphere of the film is woven through these themes, as the sisters’ closeness becomes suffocating. The tension between their characters heightens as the audience is pulled into their emotional labyrinth. Both the original novel by Daisy Johnson and Labed’s cinematic adaptation keenly explore the thin line between sisterly love and a dangerous fixation. The film dives into adolescence’s messy, emotional undercurrents, blending mystery and emotion in a powerful storytelling format.

Starcast of September Says

One of the highlights of “September Says” is its remarkable cast. Each actor delivers a nuanced performance that amplifies the emotional and psychological depth of the story. The principal actors, including those playing the younger versions of the sisters, add significant layers to the narrative.

Mia Tharia dons the role of July: Tharia’s portrayal of the quiet yet emotionally turbulent July is both compelling and heartbreaking. Her performance captures the fragile, anxious nature of her character, drawing viewers into her internal struggle.

Pascale Kann steps up as September: Kann brings an intense energy to the screen as September. Her charisma and complex emotions make her a standout, showing both tenderness and manipulation as the protective yet dominating older sister.

Rakhee Thakrar as Sheela, the sisters’ mother: Thakrar plays the supportive, yet overwhelmed mother of the two girls, adding a grounding presence to the intense family dynamic. Amelia Valentina Pankhania as Young July and Sienna Rose Velikova as Young September: Their portrayals of the younger versions of the sisters are pivotal in understanding the evolution of their bond.

Niamh Moriarty as Jennifer and Levi O’Sullivan as Leo: These characters provide critical context for the sisters’ social dynamics, and their interactions offer moments of contrast against the central relationship. Charlie Reid plays role of Brad: Reid delivers a noteworthy performance, adding another dimension to the storyline, as a key supporting character in the sisters’ lives.

Each actor’s ability to embody the raw emotionality of their character, paired with Labed’s visionary direction, elevates the film to another level.

With “September Says”, Ariane Labed has delivered a bold and moving piece of cinema that delves deep into the intricacies of sibling relationships. The film’s emotional depth, striking performances, and stunning visuals make it a true masterpiece, cementing its place as one of the most talked-about films of the year.

As the film continues to gain traction, Labed’s debut will undoubtedly be remembered as a pivotal moment in modern filmmaking. With the film’s release on Netflix, it is set to captivate audiences worldwide and further its legacy in the cinematic world.