Russell Hobbs British Film Festival Opening Night: My Duchess

Make a royal entrance at the 2026 Russell Hobbs British Film Festival Opening Night with the Australian Premiere of My Duchess, a gripping tale of royal scandal and betrayal, with complimentary sparkling wine and more on arrival!

From acclaimed director Mike Newell (Four Weddings and a Funeral), My Duchess reveals the turbulent final chapter in the extraordinary life of Wallis Simpson, Duchess of Windsor (Dame Joan Collins), the American socialite whose romance with Prince Edward, Duke of Windsor (formerly King Edward VIII) changed the course of British history. 
 
Following the Duke’s death in 1972, Wallis retreats to her Paris château, surrounded by her colourful confidant Jean-Claude (Laurent Lafitte, The Count of Monte Cristo) and devoted butler Louis (Buom Tihngang). Into this increasingly fragile world steps Maître Suzanne Blum (Academy Award nominee Isabella Rossellini, Conclave BFF24), Wallis’ trusted lawyer whose apparent devotion takes a sinister turn. 
 
As protection begins to give way to manipulation, Blum isolates Wallis and tightens her grip over her increasingly vulnerable life. Also starring Academy Award nominee Miranda Richardson and BAFTA-nominated Charles Dance, My Duchess transforms a notorious chapter of royal history into a gripping battle of loyalty, deception and control. 

EVENT DETAILS:
October 28 - 29 & November 5 | Check the sidebar for specific event times & dates.

OPENING NIGHT RECEPTION | Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane & Canberra
Enjoy delightful British fare with sparkling, red and white wine or mocktail, a sweet treat courtesy of Russell Hobbs and a cinema snack courtesy of Lexus on arrival, plus receive an official festival gift bag!

OPENING NIGHT TIPPLE | Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Perth, Ballarat & Byron Bay
Enjoy a delightful sparkling wine or mocktail on arrival!

*Film Only sessions are also available in some locations.