C&G’s Guide to the French Film Festival

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The Alliance Française French Film Festival has returned to Melbourne and will be staying until the 8th of April! This is the ultimate celebration of French contemporary cinema, showcasing the works of revered directors, writers, performers and artists. C&G's latest blog contains all the highlights, so grab some macarons and chamomile tea before sitting back and enjoying this cultural extravaganza!

Meet Director Zabou Breitman

17 March | Palace Cinema Como

This is a special screening of The Swallows of Kabul, a gorgeous animated film based on Algerian author Yasmina Khadra’s 2002 novel. The film has amazed audiences all around the globe, including the prestigious Annecy International Animated Film Festival and Cannes Film Festival. In this event you’ll be treated to a reception featuring champagne and canapes at 6:00pm, followed by an introduction and Q&A session with the director at 6:30pm. If you miss this screening, you can still check the full schedule for more showings here.

130th Anniversary Celebration

27 March | Palace Cinema Como

Can you believe we are celebrating 130 years of the Alliance Française de Melbourne? Enjoy a screening of Nicolas Bedos’ hilarious La Belle Époque at 6:45pm followed by a costume party featuring champagne, music, canapes and a macaron pyramid! All you need to do is purchase a ticket and come dressed in the style of your favourite decade.

Closing Night

8 April | Multiple locations

End the festival with Erwan Le Duc’s debut feature The Bare Necessity, which has been dazzling audiences since its premier at the 2019 Cannes Film Festival. The closing night reception will begin at 6:30pm, featuring wine and French cheese, canapes and live music. Your ticket will then allow you to enjoy the screening at 7:00pm. This special event is not to be missed, and will be happening at multiple venues in Melbourne including the Astor Theatre, Palace Cinemas Balwyn, Palace Cinemas Westgarth and the Kino!

These are only the main highlights of the festival, and there is so much more to see! Don’t forget to check out the full program for more screening times and activities.