This year’s Cunard Gala at the 68th BFI London Film Festival will open with the world premiere of Joy with Bill Nighy, James Norton and Thomasin McKenzie.

The cast of Joywhich tells the true story behind the world’s first “test tube baby” in 1978, will be present, the LFF also confirmed.

Told from the perspective of Jean Purdy (McKenzie), a young nurse and embryologist who teams up with scientist Robert Edwards (Norton) and surgeon Patrick Steptoe (Nighy) to solve the mystery of infertility through groundbreaking in vitro fertilization (IVF). “The historical drama celebrates the power of perseverance and the wonders of science by following this idiosyncratic trio of visionaries who have overcome tremendous adversity and opposition to realize their dream, enabling millions of people to dream with them,” says a synopsis.

Director Ben Taylor (Sex education, Cardinal Burns) said: “I am truly honored that my debut film, Joywill have its world premiere at this year’s BFI London Film Festival. This is a much-under-told story of British scientific achievement and it feels perfect to celebrate these three unconventional pioneers – and their world-changing innovation of IVF – here with us.”

“Joy is a very personal story for me, and I’m sure it will be for many of our viewers,” Taylor continued. “But personal aside, I hope this film will resonate even more today when infertility and choice are so much in the spotlight.”

Kristy Matheson, Director of the BFI London Film Festival, added: “We are honoured to present the world premiere of Joy. It is a beautifully made film with great performances throughout and we have no doubt that audiences will be as moved as we are by this inspiring true story and the lasting impact it has had on so many people.”

Joywritten by Jack Thorne and Rachel Mason, will have its world premiere on Tuesday 15 October at the BFI London Film Festival at the Royal Festival Hall, Southbank Centre, London; the festival runs from 9 to 20 October.