VOINews, Jakarta: The 26th edition of the French Cinema Festival officially commenced on Friday (November 22, 2024) in Jakarta. Established in 1996, this long-standing tradition continues to celebrate the rich tapestry of French cinema, offering free screenings across Indonesia both in theaters and through online platforms.
French Ambassador to Indonesia, Fabien Penone, expressed his admiration for Indonesian audiences’ enthusiasm for French films during his opening remarks. “This festival is a significant moment to celebrate cultural diversity through the big screen, while also strengthening collaboration between the French and Indonesian film industries,” he stated. This year’s theme, Regarde de Femme (Female Gazes), highlights the works of nine French female directors, offering unique perspectives on women’s struggles and journeys in the modern era.
A total of 32 films will be screened at 31 venues in 30 cities, including Medan, Ambon, and Makassar. Additionally, ten films will be available online for free on the KlikFilm platform from November 30 to December 6. All screenings will include Indonesian and English subtitles, complemented by interactive discussions with filmmakers, producers, and renowned Indonesian talents such as Mira Lesmana, Marissa Anita, and Asmara Abigail.
In a bid to foster international collaboration, the 2024 French Cinema Festival will also host the Indonesia-France Film Lab, a creative laboratory running from December 1 to February 4, 2024. The program aims to support young Indonesian filmmakers in developing high-quality feature films, with a focus on international co-productions. Esteemed French talents such as Louise Bellico and Rashid Ami will share their expertise during the program.
The opening night concluded with the Indonesian premiere of Le Comte de Monte Cristo, a captivating adaptation of Alexandre Dumas’ classic novel. The film dazzled the audience with its epic visuals and poignant storytelling, setting the tone for a festival rich in cinematic artistry.
Organized by the Institut Français d'Indonésie in collaboration with the French Embassy and partners such as Cinema XXI and KlikFilm, the festival exemplifies the enduring cultural ties between France and Indonesia.
Beyond the cinematic experience, the festival also serves as a platform to inspire and elevate Indonesian filmmakers on the global stage, reinforcing the power of storytelling in bridging cultures.
As the French Cinema Festival 2024 unfolds, audiences across Indonesia are invited to celebrate the art of film, experience diverse narratives, and immerse themselves in the shared values of creativity and connection./VOI/Ofra
