With a fresh cash injection from the U.K. Film Council and buoyant sponsorship revenues despite the recession, the London Film Festival is raising its game.

This year’s 53rd edition, which opens Oct. 14 with the world premiere of FANTASTIC MR. FOX and closes Oct. 29 with the global unveiling of NOWHERE BOY, will dole out new awards for best film and best British newcomer, alongside its long-standing Sutherland Trophy for most original debut.