BIFF 2026 - Prima Facie

Sat 14 Nov 3:15pm - 5pm
Event's cover picture

BIFF 2026 - Prima Facie

Sat 14 Nov 3:15pm - 5pm

Lumiere Cinemas, Christchurch

Directed by Susanna White

Starring Simon Russell Beale, Cynthia Erivo, Daniel Ings, Harry Treadaway, Toheeb Jimoh

OFFICIAL SELECTION: Toronto International Film Festival -

Oscar-nominee Cynthia Erivo (Wicked) stars in this adaptation of Suzie Miller’s smash-hit play, a piercing legal drama that exposes the perils of a system that forces victims to prove their assault.

Erivo plays Tessa, a no-nonsense, accomplished lawyer from a working-class background. A powerful presence in the courtroom, Tessa skillfully dismantles opposing arguments, finds weaknesses, and holds her opponents to the letter of the law. She believes the legal system is at its best when all parties receive the best representation possible.

Tessa’s life is turned upside down when she becomes the victim of sexual assault by a colleague, exposing her directly to how harsh and misogynistic the law can be to traumatised women seeking justice.

Erivo delivers a performance both heartbreaking and inspiring, supported by a terrific supporting cast including Daniel Ings (The Gentlemen), Simon Russel Beale (The Choral), and

Elizabeth Dulau (Andor).

Prima Facie has wowed audiences at its very recent Toronto International Film Festival debut, with Oscar buzz swirling for Cynthia Erivo’s complex performance. Hard-hitting and intelligent, Prima Facie is must-watch viewing at this year’s Festival.

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