James Franco’s biopic I Am Michael will have its UK premiere on opening night of the BFI Flare: London LGBT Film Festival this March 19.

Adapted from Benoit Denizet-Lewis’ New York Times Magazine article “My Ex-Gay Friend”, I Am Michael tells the real-life story of Michael Glatze, a former US journalist for prominent gay magazine XY, and LGBT activist. After a life-changing epiphany, Glatze renounces his homosexuality and turns to Christian ministry, becoming outspokenly opposed to queer lifestyles.

The film stars James Franco as Michael and Zachary Quinto as Bennett (Benoit), whilst Emma Roberts and Charlie Carver show support.

The BFI’s Deputy Head of Festivals Tricia Tuttle said: “We can think of no better film to open the 2015 edition of the Festival than I Am Michael, Justin Kelly’s audacious and assured directorial debut. […] I Am Michael is [a] powerful new work, and it’s a real testament to the growing regard within the industry for BFI Flare: London LGBT Film Festival”.

The full programme of BFI Flare: London LGBT Film Festival will be announced on 18 February. The Festival’s 29th edition will run 19 – 29 March 2015 at BFI Southbank.

Even more exciting, BFI Flare: London are hoping to nurture the filmmakers of the future by launching a mentorship pilot – it will offer five emerging LGBT filmmakers from the UK the opportunity to develop professional connections, their passion for cinema and an overview of LGBT features entering the marketplace.

The programme is open to writer/directors/producers who have previously screened a short or a feature film in any of BAFTA’s qualifying film festivals or in BFI Flare (formerly LLGFF).

The deadline for receipt of applications for the 2015 scheme is 23rd February 2015 and applications are still available.