The 53rd Hong Kong French Film Festival, running from November 19 to December 10, 2024, showcases a diverse selection of 45 contemporary and classic French films across seven venues in Hong Kong, featuring a special retrospective on François Truffaut and Q&A sessions with prominent filmmakers and actors.
Celebrating its 53rd year, this cinematic event brings French flair to Hong Kong from November 19 to December 10, 2024. Organized by the Alliance Française de Hong Kong, the festival showcases 45 contemporary and classic French films across seven venues, including Broadway Cinematheque and Palace IFC. As Hong Kong's oldest film festival, it has screened over 1,600 films since its inception in 1953. The program features a mix of recent releases and timeless classics, with ticket prices ranging from HK$75 to HK$110. This year's lineup includes critically acclaimed works, comedies, and thought-provoking documentaries, offering a comprehensive view of French cinema's rich tapestry.
The festival's opening film, "L'Amour Ouf" (Beating Hearts), directed by Gilles Lellouche, is a must-see romantic crime drama that received acclaim at Cannes. Other standout features include Christine Angot's powerful 2024 autobiographical documentary "Une Famille" (A Family), and "Saint-Ex," which chronicles The Little Prince author Antoine de Saint-Exupéry's 1930 aerial rescue mission in the Andes. For classic cinema enthusiasts, the 1962 film "Jules et Jim" continues to captivate with its tale of love and friendship set against the backdrop of World War I. Lighter options include the comedies "Les Bronzés font du ski" (1979) and "Camping" (2006), exemplifying the French tradition of blending humor with social commentary.
The festival pays tribute to François Truffaut with a special retrospective featuring several of his iconic works. Highlights include the 1959 coming-of-age classic "Les Quatre Cents Coups" (The 400 Blows), the 1962 love triangle drama "Jules et Jim," and the World War II-set "Le Dernier Metro" (The Last Metro). Other notable Truffaut films in the lineup are "Bed and Board," "Shoot the Piano Player," "Stolen Kisses," and "Small Change". This retrospective not only celebrates Truffaut's contributions to the French New Wave but also provides a unique opportunity for audiences to experience his exploration of themes such as childhood, love, and the human condition on the big screen.
The festival offers a series of engaging Q&A sessions with prominent industry figures, providing unique insights into French cinema. Attendees can interact with comedian and director Franck Dubosc, animator and producer Claude Barras, and filmmaker Antoine Chevrollier. A special highlight is the Q&A with David Teboul following screenings of "François Truffaut, My Life, a Screenplay" and "Bed and Board," offering a deeper look into Truffaut's life and work. Additionally, Camille Razat and Mélanie Robert will discuss their film "Prodigieuses," adding to the diverse lineup of filmmaker interactions.
The 53rd Hong Kong French Film Festival promises to be a vibrant celebration of French cinema, blending contemporary brilliance with timeless classics. With its diverse lineup of 45 films, an inspiring retrospective on François Truffaut, and dynamic Q&A sessions with industry luminaries, the festival offers something for everyone—from cinephiles eager to explore cinematic masterpieces to casual viewers seeking heartfelt stories and thought-provoking narratives. More than just a film festival, this event serves as a bridge between cultures, inviting audiences to immerse themselves in the artistry and storytelling that define French cinema. As the curtain rises on this cinematic extravaganza, it leaves us with a reminder of the transformative power of film and the universal stories that connect us all. Don’t miss the chance to experience this unparalleled cultural journey.
