By Marinel E. Peroy
The 27th French Film Festival makes history by introducing its first-ever Feminist Cinema, showcasing cross-cultural narratives that bridge France and the Philippines.
As a staunch advocate for gender equality in both international forums and cultural initiatives, France now extends its feminist diplomacy (launched in 2018) to Filipino audiences through screenings across Metro Manila.
“Feminist diplomacy brings this commitment to the global stage addressing critical areas such as protecting women’s rights, reducing gender inequalities, equal participation in decision-making processes, peace and security, and cultural and economic development. This is an action at a multinational level,” said French ambassador Marie Fontanel.
At the festival’s premiere night, Ambassador Fontanel emphasized that this cultural event serves as a bridge between feminism and art. “These [film] works highlight powerful stories, insightful women and girls, furthering our commitment to gender equality,” she said.
The ambassador also called for continued efforts in the fight for equality, dignity, fair pay, opportunities, and exposure, as well as creating environments free of violence.
Vive le cinéma français féministe!
Experience this culturally immersive cinematic event by catching selected French films at SM Aura in BGC, SM North Edsa, Alliance Française de Manille, the University of the Philippines Film Institute, and De La Salle College of Saint Benilde.
Admission is FREE from November 22 to 29, 2024.
On November 25, coinciding with the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, the film “Annie Colère” (Angry Annie) will be screened at the UP Film Institute, followed by a debate with civil society organizations and feminist advocates.
Additionally, French director Noémie Lefort will join a roundtable discussion about her film “My Heroine” at SM North – The Block on November 26 and will conduct a masterclass on film directing for UP film students.
A Diverse Lineup of Films
The festival features 14 notable French films, including:
- Prodigies (Prodigieuses) by Frédéric & Valentin Potier (2024)
- A Tale of Love and Desire (Une Histoire d’Amour et de Désir) by Leyla Bouzid (2020)
- Spring Blossom (Seize Printemps) by Suzanne Lindon (2020)
- Skies of Lebanon (Sous le Ciel d’Alice) by Chloé Mazlo (2020)
- No Fucks Given (Rien à foutre) by Julie Lecoustre & Emmanuelle Marre (2022)
- Hard Shell, Soft Shell (Fragile) by Emma Benestan (2021)
- The Rapture (Le Ravissement) by Iris Kaltenbak (2023)
- Angry Annie (Annie Colère) by Blandine Lenoir (2021)
- Marinette by Virginie Verrier (2023)*
- Slalom by Charlène Favier (2020)
- My Heroine (Mon Héroïne) by Noémie Lefort (2022)
- The Count of Montecristo (Le Comte de Montecristo) by Matthieu Delaporte & Alexandre De La Patellière (2024)
- The Balconettes (Les Femmes au Balcon) by Noémie Merlant (2024)
- When Fall is Coming (Quand Vient l’Automne) by François Ozon (2024)
These films, crafted by a new wave of visionary female directors from France and the Philippines, celebrate women’s empowerment, unique storytelling, and artistic innovation.
For the screening schedule, visit: French Film Festival Schedule.
Filipino-French film collaborations
This year’s festival also features Filipino films, including May at Nila, Babae, Robot-to, and Walang Kaparis.
Director Sigrid Andrea Bernardo, known for her hit Kita Kita (2017), shared her insights on the significance of representation in cinema.
“I’ve learned that the stories we tell influence how we see the world. When women are portrayed authentically on screen, we reflect the experiences of half the world’s population and inspire future generations to understand our rich and complex stories. Women should take charge of the narratives that represent us,” she said.
Her short film Babae (2005) holds a special place in her heart as it inspired her to create films that champion women’s rights, regardless of genre.
“Feminist is not a negative label, it’s a call for equality and respect. Feminism is about raising our shared humanity and striving for everyone to flourish,” she added. She also encourages individuals from all walks of life to have a “dialogue, break down barriers and dismantle stigma.”
Her advice? “Never give up and work on your mental health as a woman filmmaker.”
Meanwhile, Walang Kaparis (2023) reunites Alessandra de Rossi and Empoy Marquez in a love story set in Paris. Director Bernardo expressed optimism about future Filipino-French film collaborations.
“I’m also hoping to shoot again in France. Why not? France is a very nice country, and I’m hoping to shoot more in the rural areas,” she said.
The 27th French Film Festival – Feminist! is organized by the Embassy of France, Alliance Française de Manille, Institut Français, Film Development Council of the Philippines, SM Supermalls, and SM Cinema.
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