Sometimes, things just make perfect sense. If you make a movie about rock band Queen and recreate one of their most famous moments, you might as well have your world premiere there. Or at the very least, next door. The SSE Wembley Arena is slated to have a massive special premiere of 20th Century Fox’s film about the band, Bohemian Rhapsody. Wembley Stadium proper served as the site of the bands historic 1985 performance at the Live Aid concert.
The film will have it’s premiere on October 23rd. Along with actors Rami Malek, Lucy Boyton, Gwilym Lee, Aidan Gillen and Mike Myers, Queen members Brian May and Roger Taylor will also be in attendance.
“We’re delighted to be at The SSE Arena, Wembley giving Queen fans the chance to share in what is going to be a fantastic event,” Managing Director of 20th Century Fox UK, Chris Green, said in a statement. “The venue is perfect for showcasing the show-stopping performances in the film.”
Another cool twist is that screening is planning on selling roughly 6,500 tickets to the general public. Proceeds of which will benefit the Mercury Phoenix Trust. The organization, founded in front man Freddie Mercury’s name, supports HIV/AIDS initiatives throughout the world.
The Wembley Arena and stadium are no strangers to film premieres. Back in 2016, the stadium showed Bo66y, a documentary about the life and career of Bobby Moore. Earlier this year, they had a red carpet event for the football comedy The Bromley Boys. Sports movies showcased are a sporting venue. It just makes sense.
What else makes sense is why exactly Bohemian Rhapsody would be putting on such a big event. The film has had a somewhat trek to theaters since partway through production. Original director Bryan Singer was fired from the production last December. He was replaced by Eddie The Eagle helmer Dexter Fletcher.
The situation behind Singer’s departure are a bit hazy. Initial word was due to “unexpected availability”. Then, word broke that it pertained to on set tensions between director and actors. Singer fired back citing the need to tend to a relative. A few days later, allegations of sexual harassment (not related to this film) surfaced. Yet, the film still only has Singer credited as director.
What do you think, dear readers? Do you think this is a cool way to hold a premiere? More importantly, are you excited for Bohemian Rhapsody? Does any part of this event seem like a distraction? Let us know in the comments below. Get ready to sing your heart out, when the movie opens wide November 2nd.
