The Alliance Française French Film Festival (AF FFF) in collaboration with the French Embassy, has unveiled its complete 2024 programme of ground-breaking French cinema. Presented by MSC Cruises, the emblematic 35th edition of the largest celebration of French film outside of France, arrives across Australia from 5th March – 21st April. The 2024 edition spotlights contemporary creation, focusing on the emerging talents and innovative voices shaping the French cinematic landscape.
The whirlwind programme of 41 films features some of the greatest directors (Catherine Breillat, Michel Gondry, Albert Dupontel…) and biggest stars (Juliette Binoche, Catherine Deneuve, Daniel Auteuil, Laure Calamy, Camille Cottin…) of the French silver screen. Established by the Alliance Française, the French culture and language institution offering online and in-person language courses and events nationwide, the AF FFF is a celebration of cultural exchange, fostering deeper connections and understanding between France and Australia.
This year’s Opening Night choice is a unique adaptation of Alexandre Dumas’s thrilling and beloved classic novel The Three Musketeers. In a double blockbuster film production nominated for six César awards, from director Martin Bourboulon, the opening instalment, D’Artagnan, will open the festival. Double feature screenings of D’Artagnan and its sequel Milady, are also set to occur in a number of locations so audiences can enjoy the expansive cinematic journey in full. Closing the festival, from director Albert Dupontel, a renowned troublemaker in French cinema, comes Second Round – an audacious and at times hilariously savage portrayal of modern politics and media.
Avid fans of the festival were this year invited to vote to screen a film they felt most encapsulated the joy and wonder of French cinema. Topping the poll was The Intouchables, a film that stole hearts worldwide and remains an unparalleled box office sensation in France.
Discussing the upcoming festival, and notable 35th anniversary, Karine Mauris, Festival Artistic Director and Cultural Attachée to the French Embassy in Australia, said: “For over three decades, we’ve showcased the finest in French cinema, known for its profound simplicity and relatable humanity. Our stories reflect struggles, triumphs, passion, and possess an extraordinary ability to touch hearts.”
“Embracing The Three Musketeers’ motto, “All for one and one for all,” our festival dives into a diverse array of 41 movies from heart-warming comedies to gripping dramas, each offering its unique charm and allure.”
Palace Cinemas CEO, Benjamin Zeccola echoes Mauris’ sentiment regarding the monumental anniversary, which also signifies a three-decade long relationship as Exhibition Partner.
“Our journey together has been très extraordinaire, and we’ve enjoyed the privilege of contributing to the festival’s remarkable evolution to where it is now; a cornerstone of the cinema calendar. We look forward to celebrating with the Alliance Française and festival goers. Vive le cinéma!” he says.
Packed with Cannes highlights, unexpected tales of love, uplifting true stories, family fun and swashbuckling adventures, the AF FFF24 offers opportunities for all to experience the magic of French language and cinema.
THE ALLIANCE FRANÇAISE FRENCH FILM FESTIVAL FULL LINEUP:
OPENING NIGHT
The Three Musketeers: D’Artagnan (Les Trois Mousquetaires – D’Artagnan) – Australian premiere
France’s biggest box-office success of 2023, D’Artagnan follows a spirited young swordsman, Charles D’Artagnan (François Civil), on his journey to join the King’s elite Musketeers of the Guard. But his quest will lead him into the heart of a conspiracy where the future of the nation itself is at stake…
Directed by Martin Bourboulon, the all-star cast boasts Vincent Cassel, Pio Marmaï, Romain Duris, Eva Green and Lyna Khoudri.
Festivalgoers can experience the two-part blockbuster, with the sequel The Three Musketeers: Milady (trailer) screening throughout the festival.
CLOSING NIGHT
Second Round (Second Tour) – Australian premiere
A perfect farewell to the 35th edition, Second Round is an audacious and at times hilarious savaging of modern politics and media from the multi-talented actor, writer, and director Albert Dupontel and starring the superb Cécile de France.
35th ANNIVERSARY AUDIENCE VOTE
The Intouchables
Celebrate the 35th anniversary of the Alliance Française French Film Festival by reliving the tears and joy from one of the most beloved French films of the 21st century. The Intouchables unfolds the story of wealthy Philippe hiring ex-convict Driss as his caregiver, resulting in an unexpected and comical friendship.
HIGHLIGHTS
Mr. Blake at Your Service! (Complètement cramé !) – Australian premiere
Starring the dynamic duo of John Malkovich and Fanny Ardant, this sweet and humorous romantic comedy explores culture clashes, unexpected friendships, and second chances at happiness.
The film marks Gilles Legardinier’s debut, directing and adapting from his own novel. The book has taken the literary world by storm, being translated into 17 languages and selling over a million copies across 22 countries.
The President’s Wife (Bernadette) – Australian premiere
Legendary French actress Catherine Deneuve plays Bernadette Chirac in this uproarious comedy based on actual events.
In her debut film which has earned her a César nomination for Best First Feature Film, documentarian Léa Domenach skilfully blurs the lines between fact and fiction, presenting a captivating portrait of an unexpected feminist icon. A delightful tapestry of satire, whimsical musical numbers, and vibrant visuals, offering a heart-warming celebration of Bernadette Chirac’s resilience and wit.
Jeanne du Barry – Australian premiere
The lavish new drama from and starring Maïwenn is freely inspired by the life of the rags-to-riches social climber who became the mistress of King Louis XV, played with taciturn command by Johnny Depp in his first French-language speaking role.
Shot on location at Versailles and featuring majestic costumes and production design, that earned the film two César nominations, Jeanne Du Barry is a visual feast for the senses.
The Taste of Things (La passion de Dodin Bouffant)
The year is 1885 and since premiering at the 2023 Cannes Film Festival, The Taste of Things has whetted appetites and tugged at heartstrings all over the world, including the César judges, receiving three nominations at this year’s awards. This deliciously sensual adaptation of Marcel Rouff’s classic 1924 novel The Life and Passion of Dodin-Bouffant, Gourmet, blends cooking with romantic love, and won director Tran Anh Hung the Best Director prize at Cannes 2023.
Juliette Binoche plays Eugénie, a renowned cook with no equal. Benoît Magimel is Dodin, a brilliant epicure whose ideas for recipes when combined with Eugénie’s talents, create culinary magic. The talented duo forms a partnership that extends beyond the kitchen.
Iris and the Men (Iris et les hommes) – Australian premiere
Caroline Vignal and the fabulous Laure Calamy reunite for an hilarious and provocative comedy about reignited desire in the modern age.
Destined to be one of the biggest hits of this year’s Festival, so be sure to grab tickets early.
A Difficult Year (Une année difficile) – Australian premiere
The wildly entertaining new comedy from irrepressible filmmaking duo Éric Toledano and Olivier Nakache, stars Pio Marmaï and Jonathan Cohen as two compulsive spenders who get much more than they bargained for when they scam their way out of trouble.
Bonnard, Pierre & Marthe – Australian premiere
Vincent Macaigne and a radiant Cécile de France enrapture the beautiful new historical drama from multi award-winning director Martin Provost about the turbulent love story between the famous post-Impressionist painter and his lesser-known – but highly influential – wife.
A Great Friend (Les Choses simples) – Australian premiere
Director Éric Besnard, the creative force behind Delicious, whips up another tantalising blend of culinary delights and human bonds in this unexpected bromance.
Grab a glass of French wine at the bar and prepare to lose yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the French Alps, where laughter, friendship, and unexpected connections come together and leave you yearning for more.
Alliance Française French Film Festival 2024
Brisbane 5 March – 2 April, Palace James Street and Palace Barracks
Byron Bay 7 – 27 March, Palace Byron Bay
Gold Coast 3 – 16 April, Dendy Cinemas Southport
www.affrenchfilmfestival.org
