World news and discussion on TalkFuse.
The American French Film Festival Screens the Best From Gaul for an Enthusiastic U.S. Crowd
The American French Film Festival is marking its 30th year by presenting 60 films, shorts and series to an enthusiastic US audience. Organisers say it has grown beyond a showcase into a bridge between the two countries’ film industries, helping audiences discover a wider range of French and international cinema.
The festival is produced by the Franco-American Cultural Fund, a partnership of US film guilds and associations and French organisations. Its opening film, *In Waves*, is an English-language animation based on a US graphic novel, developed by French producers and directed by French-Vietnamese animator Phuong Mai Nguyen; Netflix acquired it at Cannes. The programme, which runs until 8 November, includes films from several countries competing in the international Oscar race, alongside industry events and free screenings for local high-school students.
In short
- The festival celebrates its 30th year with 60 films, shorts and series.
- Its programme connects US and French film industries and audiences.
- Free screenings bring films and discussions to local high-school students.
Explained simply
French and American film industries have long worked across borders, through co-productions, distribution deals and film festivals. A festival can introduce audiences to films that may not otherwise reach cinemas in their country, and give filmmakers and industry professionals a place to meet.
The American French Film Festival is organised by the Franco-American Cultural Fund, a partnership between US film groups and French organisations. Its programme includes French films as well as work from other countries, so it offers a wider view of international cinema than its name alone might suggest.
The festival’s opening film, In Waves, illustrates how a project can cross national lines: it is an English-language animation based on a US graphic novel, made by French producers and directed by French-Vietnamese animator Phuong Mai Nguyen. Such collaborations matter to audiences because films can draw on different creative traditions and find viewers through international distributors.
Americas Entertainment Europe Film World