André Benjamin stars as Seattle rock legend Jimi Hendrix in the drama, set to open the 40th Seattle International Film Festival on May 15.

Jimi: All Is By My Side

Jimi: All Is By My Side charts the life and loves of the iconic musician. Screenwriter John Ridley will attend the opening night event.

Imogen Poots and Hayley Atwell star alongside Benjamin.

The film will open theatrically in summer through XLrator Media with Open Road Films.

“I can’t think of a more fitting film to open our 40th - as SIFF looks back on where we’ve come from and forward to where we’re going, we’re inviting everyone to come together to see a film that traces the origins of a Seattle music legend,” said the festival’s artistic director Carl Spence.

“The film and music communities of Seattle have proved to be a source of incredible creative expression capable of garnering attention worldwide, and Jimi encapsulates that.”

“I am thrilled to kick off the festival with such an exciting film and guests,” said festival MD Mary Bacarella. “2014 has been an incredible year for Seattle, with the Seahawks winning the Super Bowl and Macklemore taking the world by storm - SIFF’s 40th Festival will keep the party going!”

The 40th Seattle International Film Festival runs from May 15-June 8.