From December 4 to April 6, the Forum des images invites audiences to explore the theme “They Are Here to Stay,” focusing on ten influential French female directors. The program features public discussions, film courses analyzing specific themes, and special screenings of lesser-known films. Each director will showcase their inspirations and highlight emerging talents. This initiative celebrates the significant contributions of women in contemporary cinema, marking an important evolution in the French film landscape.
Exclusive Encounters and Deep Dives into Creative Processes
Shifting from its previous focus on romantic comedies, the Forum des images invites cinema enthusiasts to delve into the captivating theme They Are Here to Stay from December 4 to April 6. This initiative celebrates the vibrant landscape of contemporary filmmaking, spotlighting 10 prominent French female directors: Rébecca Zlotowski, Alice Diop, Mia Hansen-Løve, Jeanne Herry, Sophie Letourneur, Valérie Donzelli, Blandine Lenoir, Alice Winocour, Delphine Coulin, and Muriel Coulin.
They Are Here to Stay
Each featured director will engage in public discussions, often accompanied by key members of their teams, offering insights into their careers and creative processes. For instance, Rébecca Zlotowski will share her experiences filming her series Les Sauvages during a conversation on December 6, while Alice Diop will reflect on her artistic evolution from documentary filmmaking to narrative fiction on December 14.
The program will also include film courses that provide fresh analytical perspectives on their works. These educational sessions will explore various themes, such as desire in Rébecca Zlotowski’s narratives and the portrayal of intimacy in Mia Hansen-Løve’s films.
Additionally, special screenings will feature invited directors presenting lesser-known yet impactful films, including La Voix des autres by Fatima Kaci and Sambizanga by Sarah Maldoror, both selected by Alice Diop.
The series will launch on December 4 with the premiere of Playing with Fire, presented by Delphine and Muriel Coulin themselves.
An Engaging Program Reflecting Diverse Influences
Beyond their standout feature films, such as Saint Omer by Alice Diop and Une fille facile by Rébecca Zlotowski, each program will showcase films curated by these directors, shedding light on their artistic inspirations.
Alice Diop, inspired by the works of Chantal Akerman, has chosen Jeanne Dielman, 23 Quai du Commerce, 1080 Brussels, while Rébecca Zlotowski draws parallels with her film Belle Épine by selecting A Swedish Love Story by Roy Andersson. Alice Winocour connects her work to Todd Haynes’ Safe, and Mia Hansen-Løve pays homage to Poto and Cabengo by Jean-Pierre Gorin, a film that delves into familial relationships—an essential theme in her own filmography.
Each director also highlights the new wave of talent by showcasing emerging filmmakers. Notable names include Lola Quivoron, acclaimed for her debut feature Rodéo, and Justine Harbonnier, the visionary behind the poignant documentary Caiti Blues.
A Transformative Era for Cinema
The program They Are Here to Stay transcends a mere retrospective; it marks a significant moment in the evolution of French cinema. Fabien Gaffez, the artistic director of the Forum des images, underscores the importance of this movement: “These women are not a fleeting trend; they are making a lasting impact, and it is a privilege to honor them today.”
This initiative provides audiences with the chance to rediscover essential works, investigate their influences, and immerse themselves in the creative journeys of this remarkable generation of female directors. This program celebrates both an artistic milestone and a fresh, inclusive perspective on cinema.
For complete details and the full program schedule, visit the official website of the Forum des images.