Annual French Film Festival returns with six thought-provoking films

salvetoday Posted On March 13, 2024
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With six films ranging from classic to contemporary, Salve Regina University announces its annual French Film Festival, which will run from Sunday, March 17, through Tuesday, April 2. Set against the backdrop of societal norms and the complexities of human nature, this cinematic journey aims to captivate audiences and ignite profound reflections on the intricacies of the human experience.

The festival’s films are listed below:

All six films will be screened on campus in the O’Hare Academic Building’s Bazarsky Lecture Hall. On opening night, a wine and cheese reception with live music by French singer, Mathilde Mauguière, will be held after the first film, “Portrait de la jeune fille en feu.” The Sunday matinee, “Queen Margo,” will be preceded by a reception with pastries and coffee from The French Confection.

For the general public, admission is $15 for Sunday films and receptions, $10 for weeknight films and $40 for a festival pass. Tickets for individual screenings will be available at the door for cash or check only. To avoid lines at the door, patrons are encouraged to buy a festival pass online. Salve Regina’s students, faculty and staff receive free admission with valid Salve Regina ID.

La Reine Margot/Queen Margot

Societal norms and the human experience

While often serving as a foundation for shared values and behaviors, societal norms can inadvertently perpetuate exclusivity by favoring certain demographics or lifestyles. The challenge lies in recognizing and challenging these norms to foster a more inclusive society that celebrates diversity and respects the varied expressions of identity.

This year’s film festival will highlight stories of individuals who go against the standards set by society.

“French filmmaking is notoriously ambivalent or ambiguous,” described Dr. Dean de la Motte, professor of modern languages and coordinator for the festival. “We want to expose students and the wider public to the French tradition of film that makes you want to have a cup of coffee or glass of wine afterwards to debate.”

Portrait de la jeune fille en feu/Portrait of a Lady on Fire

It is the intrinsic desire for connection, empathy and understanding that brings individuals together – forming the common ground upon which humanity thrives.

“I’m hoping that the audience will see connections between their own lives and resonate with themes that transcend French or West African or American context,” he emphasized.

The films explore themes of love, grief, autonomy, oppression, longing, societal expectations and sacrifice – providing a poignant narrative that captivates audiences with its emotional depth and rich storytelling, illustrating what it means to be human.

All six films touch on different aspects of the human experience and the societal boundaries of their time. To learn more about each film, go here.

Critical concerns that transcend borders

Salve is guided by the Critical Concerns of Mercy – emphasizing social justice, compassion and a commitment to addressing systemic issues. This festival aims to highlight the universal need for these concerns, as their value transcends the walls of the University.

“We want to bring forward concerns that we think our students should care about, and that are connected to our mission,” said de la Motte. “There’s a hope that art, at its best, helps us think about the things that matter in life.”

To buy tickets for any of the individual films in advance, visit the French Film Festival’s webpage, or they can buy a festival pass. Tickets for individual screenings will be available at the door for cash or check only. Festival passes are available online for advanced purchase.

For general festival information, email frenchfilmfestival@salve.edu.