Queen to attend screening of 'Amateurs'

LONDON, Oct. 7 (UPI) -- The British big-screen comedy "A Bunch of Amateurs" has been selected as this year's Royal Film Performance, organizers said.

"Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince" was initially slated to be screened at the event; however, the film's release date was postponed and planners had to choose another film to show in its place.

Starring Burt Reynolds, Imelda Staunton, Derek Jacobi and Samantha Bond, "Amateurs" will debut at a gala to be attended by Queen Elizabeth II at London's Odeon Leicester Square Nov. 17, the BBC reported.

The movie is scheduled for release in U.K. theaters in December.

Last year's Royal Film Performance was canceled for the first time since 1958 because the chosen movie, "Brick Lane," was viewed by some as controversial, the BBC noted.

David Murrell, president of the Cinema and Television Benevolent Fund, which organizes the performance, told the British broadcaster: "I have no doubts that every single guest at the Royal Film Performance will greatly enjoy this film ('Amateurs.') We are delighted to be supporting such talented and predominantly British filmmakers and cast members."

Proceeds from the gala are to aid financially struggling film and TV industry families, the BBC said.