Liverpool is to host a star-studded charity premiere of Hollywood blockbuster The 51st State — organised by the city council’s Film Office and BAFTA North.

Cast and crew from the movie - including Ricky Tomlinson and Mickey Starke — will be at the event on Tuesday November 27th at the Odeon Cinema on London Road, along with other celebrities.

Leading man Samuel L Jackson is keeping fans guessing about whether he will make a star appearance.

The £28 million picture — which goes on general release on December 7th - was shot entirely in Liverpool.

Film Office manager Lynn Saunders, whose team were instrumental in ensuring it was shot in the city, said: "The 51st State is one of the biggest movies ever filmed in this country and the producers were keen that we should hold an event here in Liverpool.

"Their determination, combined with the help and co-operation of the city council and people and businesses in the city, has ensured this film has made it on to the big screen."

Councillor Frank Doran, Executive Board member for Leisure and Culture, said: "Because this film is set in the city it will really raise our profile - both amongst movie-goers and the industry.

"We have now proved we can compete with any other city in the world when it comes to facilitating filming and that can only be good news. It is also further evidence that we are one of the strongest contenders to become Capital of Culture in 2008."

The movie tells the tale of an American chemist who comes to Liverpool to set up his last big drugs deal.