A Difficult Year

- OFFICIAL SELECTION: Toronto International Film Festival -

The wildly entertaining new comedy from irrepressible filmmaking duo Éric Toledano and Olivier Nakache (The Intouchables, C'est la vie), A Difficult Year stars Pio Marmaï and Jonathan Cohen as two compulsive spenders who get much more than they bargained for when they try and scam their way out of trouble. Both in debt up to their necks, Albert (Marmaï) and Bruno (Cohen) have turned to a community worker (Mathieu Amalric) to try and help get a grip on their lives. However, at one of their group sessions, they stumble into an adjoining meeting room hosting a gathering of young social activists, led by a vivacious organiser (the fabulous Noémie Merlant). Attracted more by the free beer and chips than the group's struggle against consumerism and protection of the environment (whilst acknowledging the hugs are quite nice), Albert and Bruno join the movement without any particular conviction, but soon sense an opportunity... if they don’t get arrested first. Expertly poking fun at their characters while simultaneously honouring them, A Difficult Year delivers both laughs and pathos in spades, thanks to the directors’ ongoing faith in humanity’s desire to change. A Difficult Year is a 2024 Festival must-see.

A Silence

The remarkable Emmanuelle Devos and Daniel Auteuil - two of France’s finest and most awarded actors – are at the very top of their game in the gripping and provocative new drama from acclaimed writer/director Joachim Lafosse, the story of a married couple and their adopted son who grapple with the fallout after a long-held family secret is exposed. Cocooned in a life of privilege, 50-something Astrid Schaar (Devos) is the wife of the suave François (Auteuil), a prominent and media-savvy lawyer approaching a crucial point in his years-long, high profile case, in which he represents the parents of several abducted children. Day and night, reporters wait outside their gated home, hoping to snap a photo and secure François’ latest remarks. But the uneasy equilibrium of the household erodes when a figure from the family’s past returns, initiating their own search for justice… Sharply scripted, expertly directed and dominated by performances of complexity and gravitas from Devos and Auteuil, A Silence - inspired by true events that shocked France and Belgium - is a disquieting exploration of family duty, complicity and coercive control; as the screws tighten and the characters steel themselves for the repercussions of their actions, it’s impossible to look away.

Abbé Pierre: A Century of Devotion

- OFFICIAL SELECTION: Festival de Cannes (Out of Competition) -

Featuring a revelatory lead performance from Benjamin Lavernhe (Delicious, C’est la vie!), writer/director Frédéric Tellier’s sweeping and deeply affecting historical drama charts the extraordinary life of the titular priest and humanist (1912-2007) who advocated for those most in need whilst frequently placing himself in peril and risk of ostracisation. The fifth of eight Catholic children, Henri Grouès (Lavernhe) plans to join the monastery, only for WWII to intervene. Learning of the persecution of Jews and patriots, he joins the Resistance to help those fleeing Gestapo oppression, himself forced to use several false identities to avoid capture. As “Abbé Pierre”, Henri is exposed to the devastation of war, but also bears witness to the compassion and strength of brotherhood and the liberation of Paris; he emerges from the maelstrom a changed man and becomes dedicated to the lives of others. A major word-of-mouth sensation and box office success in France in late 2023, Tellier’s grand, big-budget production features a stirring soundtrack by The National’s Bryce Dessner and is truly elevated by the remarkable Lavernhe. Abbé Pierre: A Century of Devotion is both an uplifting and memorable drama that – in capturing the feelings, doubts and contradictions of one inspirational man - speaks eloquently to the concerns of our current era.

Bonnard, Pierre & Marthe

- OFFICIAL SELECTION: Festival de Cannes (Cannes Premiere) -

Vincent Macaigne and a radiant Cécile de France enrapture in Bonnard, Pierre & Marthe, the beautiful and transporting new historical drama from multi award-winning director Martin Provost (Séraphine, The Midwife) about the turbulent love story between the famous post- Impressionist painter and his lesser-known – but highly influential – wife. 1893. When aspiring artist Pierre Bonnard (Macaigne) - a protégé of Claude Monet - meets Marthe de Méligny (de France), he has no idea that this self-proclaimed aristocrat will become the cornerstone of his life and work; from this moment, she becomes more than just a muse, appearing in over a third of his paintings. Together, over five decades, the couple will explore creative fulfillment, love and jealousies that challenge the standards of the time, as the film interrogates the great mystery around their relationship. Provost’s vision for this material is clear and concise; what may appear as a traditional account of its subjects soon moves beyond conventions and evolves into something much more resonant and profound. Thanks in no small part to its lead performances (de France especially has never been better), anyone interested in the creative arts should not miss this quite stunning film.

Divertimento

Classical symphonic music is everything for 17-year-old Zahia Ziouani and her twin sister, Fettouma. Nevertheless, living in underprivileged Parisian suburbs in 1995 with their Algerian background, they struggle arduously to approach their dreams – becoming an orchestra conductor and a cellist. Driven by determination, passion, and courage, they create their own orchestra, Divertimento. It will be a game-changer. Divertimento is inspired by the life of Zahia Ziouani, one of the few worldwide renown female conductors.

Iris and the Men

After the smash-hit international success of Antoinette in the Cévennes (the most popular film in the history of the French Film Festival), writer/director Caroline Vignal and the fabulous Laure Calamy reunite for an hilarious and provocative comedy about reignited desire in the modern age. “They’re not”. This is how Iris (Calamy) quietly answers her chiropractor when asked how things are going with her husband (Vincent Elbaz). The words slip from her mouth like an unformed realisation: how long has it been since they last made love? Yet everything else is great: the couple love each other, they have two happy daughters, she runs a successful medical practice and has the best friends one could hope for... But soon Iris will be turning 50. It is a stranger who whispers the seed of an idea: “Take a lover”. So, she dares open Pandora’s box, and hesitantly registers herself on a dating app. Immediately, men start to appear, as if it were raining… So begins this cheeky, joyous and conversation-starting delight, in which Calamy completes her transformation from quirky character actress into unadulterated comedic star. Bound to be one of the biggest hits of this year’s Festival, book early for Iris and the Men.

Jeanne du Barry

- OFFICIAL SELECTION: Festival de Cannes (Opening Film) -

The lavish new drama from writer/director Maïwenn, Jeanne du Barry is freely inspired by the life of the rags-to-riches social climber, a working-class woman who became the mistress of King Louis XV, played with taciturn command by Johnny Depp in his first French-language speaking role. Pre-Revolution France: Jeanne Bécu (Maïwenn), the illegitimate daughter of a monk, hungers for culture and pleasure and is determined to escape her upbringing. With charm and wit, she builds a reputation as a skilled courtesan and her benefactor, the Comte du Barry (Melvil Poupaud) grows rich through her amorous encounters. Wishing to present her to the widowed King (Depp), a renowned womaniser, the Comte orchestrates a meeting. For Jeanne and Louis, it’s intoxication at first sight; she is soon anointed his new favourite. Unapologetically ignoring propriety and etiquette, with the help of his valet La Borde (a scenestealing Benjamin Lavernhe), Louis moves her into his Versailles palace, sparking scandal and jeopardising relations with the newly arrived Marie Antoinette... Shot on location at Versailles and featuring majestic costumes and production design, Jeanne du Barry is a visual feast for the senses. Maïwenn delivers an exuberant and sensitive portrait of class, ambition and both the rewards and risks of living in the public eye.

Lucky Winners

The chance of winning the lottery is one in 19 million - less likely than being struck by lightning, they say. But for the characters of Lucky Winners, this dream quickly turns into an explosive and hilarious nightmare. This rollercoaster of a black comedy explores themes of sudden fortune and its unexpected consequences. An all-star ensemble cast brings this thrilling tale to life. Renowned for her comic talent and performances in fims such as The Kitchen Brigade, Audrey Lamy brings her charisma to the role of Louise. Fabrice Eboué, known in France for his varied career in stage comedy and film, enriches the film with his verve and wit as Paul. Also lending their comedic talents to the cast are Anouk Grinberg (The Innocent) and Sami Outalbali (Sex Education). Famous for his ability to blend humour and emotion, director Maxime Govare’s collaboration with Romain Choay delivers a skillful exploration of social dynamics and reversals of fortune. Don’t miss the darkly comic twists and turns of Lucky Winners!

Marguerite's Theorem

- OFFICIAL SELECTION: Festival de Cannes (Special Screenings) -

- CÉSAR WINNER: Best Female Revelation, Ella Rumpf -

Immerse yourself in a tale of obsession, genius, and self-discovery set within the world of elite academia in Marguerite’s Theorem. César-winner Ella Rumpf is Marguerite, a brilliant young mathematician who refuses to let her status as the lone woman in her class hinder her pursuit of excellence. However, her world crumbles when a new student discovers a flaw in her thesis, and her supervisor dismisses her for being too emotional. Marguerite must now navigate the real world, unearthing new insights, gaining a fresh lease on life, and even exploring the possibility of romance.

Mr. Blake at Your Service!

This highly anticipated romantic comedy stars the dynamic duo of John Malkovich and Fanny Ardant. Malkovich brilliantly takes on the role of the charming British Businessman, Andrew Blake. In a twist of fate, Blake becomes the butler of a once-distinguished manor house, owned by the elegant yet aloof Madame de Beauvilier (Ardant). The “Domaine de Beauvilier” has fallen on hard times, with both staff and residents longing for better days. Based on Gilles Legardinier’s international hit novel, Mr. Blake At Your Service! is a heartwarming cinematic experience that will leave you grinning.

Neneh Superstar

Set within the Paris Opera Ballet School, one of France’s most prestigious cultural institutions, this inspiring family-friendly film will resonate with anyone who has ever refused to compromise their dreams. 12-year-old ballet dancer Neneh discovers that her extraordinary natural talent may not be enough to win the approval of the school’s harsh and discriminatory headmistress. Not only is Neneh from a socially disadvantaged background, but she is also black, challenging the longstanding dominance of white dancers in classical ballet. This glorious celebration of talent is a charming must-see for families and ballet enthusiasts of all ages.

Rosalie

- OFFICIAL SELECTION: Festival de Cannes (Un Certain Regard) -

Set in 1870s France, Rosalie, portrayed by the radiant Nadia Tereszkiewicz, is an extraordinary young woman harboring a secret. Abel (Benoît Magimel), an indebted tavern owner unaware of her secret, marries Rosalie for her dowry. When Rosalie defiantly decides to embrace her unconventional appearance, the central question emerges: Can Abel truly love her and see beyond her physical differences, once he discovers the truth? Rosalie draws inspiration from the experiences of historical figures, weaving a passionate and empowering drama that serves as a beautifully crafted parable on intolerance and attitudes toward body diversity. Directed by Stéphanie Di Giusto, known for her acclaimed debut The Dancer, Rosalie tenderly explores the triumph of hope and love in a world marked by prejudice.

Sidonie in Japan

- OFFICIAL SELECTION: Venice International Film Festival -

Isabelle Huppert delivers a beautifully nuanced performance as Sidonie Perceval, a widowed author who after a long period of inactivity reluctantly travels to Japan to promote a new translation of her debut novel. The majority of her time in Japan is spent with her publisher, Kenzo Mizoguchi, to whom she finds herself increasingly drawn - despite still grieving for her husband. These feelings are further complicated when she is visited by her husband’s ghost. A mesmerising blend of melancholy, romance, self-discovery and humour, Sidonie in Japan will appeal to fans of such films as Lost in Translation and Truly Madly Deeply.

Suddenly

Suddenly is guaranteed to get your pulse racing! Ben (Gilles Lellouche) and Laura (Mélanie Thierry) have spent five years together. Their decision to embark on a global sailing adventure takes an unexpected turn when they detour to a remote island near the Antarctic coast. Caught in a storm, their boat disappears, leaving them isolated, alone, and in danger as winter approaches. Now, they must fight not only for survival but also to preserve their relationship. As Ben and Laura grapple with unimaginable challenges, they confront a haunting question: Is it better to survive alone or face death together? This gripping tale of romance and survival is the latest creation from writer/director Thomas Bidegain, renowned for his collaborations with director Jacques Audiard on films like A Prophet and Rust and Bone. Adapted from the novel Soudain, seuls by French author and sailor Isabelle Autissier, Suddenly navigates the extremes of life and love. Don’t miss it!

Take A Chance On Me

When down down on her luck Marie-Line appears before Judge Gilles d’Outremont, he sees something in her that nobody else does. He hires her to be his driver, and the result is a poignant, fun-filled and ultimately life-changing road trip. The sensational Louane Emera (The Bélier Family) plays the downtrodden yet high spirited Marie-Line, while legendary screen veteran Michel Blanc (A Good Doctor) shines as the loveably grumpy judge. This gloriously mismatched odd couple’s journey together makes for a delightful film about the most unlikely of friendships, and the unexpected joy of second chances.

The Animal Kingdom

- OFFICIAL SELECTION: Festival de Cannes (Un Certain Regard) -

- 5x CÉSAR WINNER -

The Animal Kingdom is an inventive genre mash-up that combines the warmth of a family drama with the unique visuals of a Cronenbergian thriller. Romain Duris (Eiffel) and Paul Kircher play François and Émile, a father and son living in a dystopian future where people are mutating into animals. One of the victims of this affliction is the pair’s wife/mother, Julia. François and Émile relocate to live near a new instiution designed to house these human/animal hybrids - including Julia. Amid the growing mystery and paranoia, this family will discover what it means to be human.

The Crime is Mine

In this showbiz screwball comedy, an aspiring actress and her lawyer best friend spin a murder accusation into a shot at fame. Madeleine (Nadia Tereszkiewicz) is a pretty, young, penniless and talentless actress in 1930s Paris. Accused of murdering a famous producer, she is helped by her best friend Pauline, a young unemployed lawyer. Acquitted on the grounds of self-defense, a new life of fame and success begins for Madeleine, until the truth comes out... Isabelle Huppert joins this sensational cast as Odette Chaumette, a once-famous silent film star, while Fabrice Luchini plays the lofty investigating magistrate. Don’t miss it!

The Edge of the Blade

- KARLOVY VARY INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL: Audience Award -

Roschdy Zem (The Innocent) stars as the legendary swordsman Clément Lacaze, caught up in an illegal fencing bout between his nephew and a more experienced army colonel. Doria Tiller (The Origin of Evil) plays women’s rights activist Marie-Rose Astié, who is attempting to manipulate the conventions of duelling to bring attention to her own cause. When Clément and Marie-Rose band together, they must defend so much more than outdated notions of honour. The Edge of the Blade compellingly weaves drama, romance and duels for an edge-of-your-seat experience where every sword clash heralds change.

The President's Wife

- OFFICIAL SELECTION: Toronto International Film Festival -

The legendary Catherine Deneuve plays the French icon Bernadette Chirac in this hilarious comedy based on actual events. It’s 1995, and Jacques Chirac has just been elected President of the French Republic. When Bernadette Chirac steps into the Elysée, she’s ready for the recognition she deserves, having tirelessly stood by her husband’s side on his journey to the presidency. Instead, she finds herself brushed off as old-fashioned, cold and sour-tempered. With the help of her chief of staff, Bernard Niquet, Bernadette begins a campaign to restore her reputation and assert her role as first lady. In her debut film, documentarian Léa Domenach skilfully blurs the lines between fact and fiction, presenting an engrossing portrait of an unexpected feminist icon. You will find yourself smiling, laughing, and empathising with this delightful character, flawlessly personified by the wonderful Deneuve. The President’s Wife is a must-see in this year’s lineup!

The Sitting Duck

- OFFICIAL SELECTION: Venice International Film Festival -

The Sitting Duck is the true story of Maureen Kearney (Isabelle Huppert), the head union representative of a French multinational nuclear powerhouse. She became a whistleblower, denouncing top-secret deals that shook the French nuclear sector. Alone against the world, she fought government ministers and industry leaders, tooth and nail to bring the scandal to light and to defend more than 50,000 jobs... Her life was turned upside down when she was violently assaulted in her own home... Suddenly, new elements created doubt in the minds of the investigators. At first a victim, Maureen became a suspect.

The Taste of Things

- FESTIVAL DE CANNES: Best Director, Tran Anh Hung -

After its premiere at the 2023 Cannes Film Festival, The Taste of Things has had mouths watering worldwide. This delicious adaptation of Marcel Rouff’s classic 1924 novel The Life and Passion of Dodin-Bouffant, Gourmet, is the perfect blend of cooking and romance. The film won director Tran Anh Hung the Best Director prize at Cannes. Set in 1885, Academy Award winner Juliette Binoche stars as Eugénie, a renowned cook whose talents are unmatched. Benoît Magimel plays Dodin, a brilliant epicure. With their talents combined, the pair prepare a meal for a visiting prince, revolving around a “pot-au-feu” (an iconic French dish of slow cooked beef stew). Eugénie and Dodin’s culinary collaboration transcends the kitchen, blossoming into a deep friendship that occasionally flirts with romance. Can Dodin’s exceptional culinary instincts and longing for a deeper connection persuade Eugénie to marry him? France’s submission to the 2024 Oscars, The Taste of Things not only celebrates French cuisine but also underscores the devotion, care, and time it demands.

The Three Musketeers: D'Artagnan

Alexandre Dumas’s thrilling and beloved classic novel The Three Musketeers has spawned multiple adaptations since its publication in 1844, but none have approached the scope and spectacle of this wildly entertaining, blockbuster two-film production from director Martin Bourboulon, who assembles an all-star cast for the first French cinematic treatment in over 30 years. Set in the early 17th century kingdom of France, the opening instalment D'Artagnan follows a spirited young swordsman, Charles D’Artagnan (François Civil), on his journey from Gascony to Paris to join the King’s elite Musketeers of the Guard. Along the way, he narrowly escapes death whilst heroically saving a woman from being kidnapped. In his efforts to enlist, D’Artagnan manages to offend the sensibilities of three of the most formidable Musketeers in the ranks, Athos (Vincent Cassel), Porthos (Pio Marmaï) and Aramis (Romain Duris) … But D'Artagnan soon wins them over, and his dedication to help his newfound friends and serve King Louis XIII (Louis Garrel) will lead him not only into the path of the mysterious Milady de Winter (Eva Green) and the Queen's consort Constance (Lyna Khoudri), but the heart of a conspiracy where the future of the nation itself is at stake… France’s highest grossing film of 2023, Bourboulon’s magnificent production - lavishly produced with a budget of over €70 million - is both respectful of its source but enriched with contemporary touches; the film is chock-full of humour, romance, palace intrigue and pulsepounding action. The Three Musketeers: D'Artagnan unquestionably delivers as a smart and hugely involving big-screen experience for all ages. Audiences are assured of lining up for the thrilling conclusion, Milady within moments of the end credits.

The Three Musketeers: Milady

Following the events of D'Artagnan, a secret from the past shatters old alliances in The Three Musketeers: Milady, the spectacular second chapter to Martin Bourboulon’s lavish, all-star adaptation of Alexandre Dumas’ classic adventure, the first French cinematic treatment in over 30 years. Strap in for the unforgettable conclusion.

Toni

Parenting a teenager is hard enough, but for Antonia ‘Toni’ Livesi, being the sole parent of five teenagers while earning a living as a bar singer is nearly impossible. Despite a brief taste of fame twenty years ago with a hit song, Toni’s life is very much an ordinary one, structured around kids and their squabbles, meals, laundry, housecleaning and work. As her two eldest children prepare to start university, she finds herself questioning her life and where she will go next. At 43, is there still time to try something new? Toni explores the dynamics of parenthood, family, and the delicate art of balancing work and life.