The Embassy of France in the Philippines and Micronesia, in partnership with SM Supermalls and SM Cinema, proudly present the 28th edition of the French Film Festival — Manila’s premier celebration of French and global cinema. From November 24 to 30, SM Aura and SM City Manila Cinemas will screen a vibrant lineup of innovative French films, promising fresh perspectives and cinematic artistry.
For nearly 30 years, the French Film Festival has been a beloved cultural bridge, inviting Filipino audiences to dive into the rich tapestry of French storytelling — bold, intimate, and thought-provoking. This year, the festival embraces new horizons by spotlighting French-Filipino co-productions, feminist cinema, and the dynamic realm of animation.
Celebrating Feminist Cinema and Female Storytellers
Aligned with France’s ongoing feminist diplomacy and initiatives championed by French Ambassador Marie Fontanel, this year’s festival puts women and their stories front and center. The program features groundbreaking female directors and films that explore themes of identity, resilience, and equality.
Adding star power, a rising French actress known worldwide for her compelling performances and recent work alongside major Hollywood figures will join the festival as a special guest. She will participate in post-screening discussions of three feminist-themed films, delving into narratives of courage, independence, and the fight for representation across sports, society, and culture.
Animation: A World of Wonder
Expanding its creative scope, the festival highlights the art of animation in collaboration with the Animation Council of the Philippines. ANIMAHENASYON (November 25–26) at Samsung Hall, SM Aura, will feature film screenings, industry talks, and an awards night celebrating animated storytelling’s vibrancy and emotional depth.
Audience favorites include Amélie et la Métaphysique des Tubes, La Plus Précieuse des Marchandises, and Maya Donne-moi un titre — each showcasing the exquisite craftsmanship and imaginative power of French animation.
A Diverse and Exciting Film Lineup
This year’s selection offers a mix of new releases, timeless classics, animated gems, and cross-cultural collaborations, including:
- Partir un jour by Amélie Bonnin (2025)
- 13 jours 13 nuits by Martin Bourboulon (2025)
- La Petite Dernière by Hafsia Herzi (2025)
- Coutures by Alice Winocour (2026)
- Elsewhere at Night by Marianne Métivier (2025)
- Dracula by Luc Besson (2025)
- La Plus Précieuse des Marchandises by Michel Hazanavicius (2024)
- Le Roi et l’Oiseau by Paul Grimault (1980)
- Le Pharaon by Michel Ocelot (2022)
- Call My Agent (Erik Matti) alongside its French original Dix pour cent (Cédric Klapisch)
More titles will feature emerging talents, heritage stories, and diverse global viewpoints.
Milestone in French-Filipino Film Collaboration
A standout moment this year is the historic Co-Production Agreement between France and the Philippines, signed on May 14 at the Cannes Film Festival. This groundbreaking partnership opens new doors for filmmakers on both sides, fostering collaboration, expanding distribution, and deepening cultural ties.
To celebrate, a two-day Co-Production Conference will be held on November 27–28 at SM Samsung Hall, SMX Aura, in partnership with the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) and France’s National Center for Cinema and Animation (CNC). French and Filipino film professionals will gather to forge new creative ventures and share insights.
As part of this collaboration, the festival will screen the Filipino adaptation Call My Agent back-to-back with the beloved French original Dix pour cent.
Extending the Festival Experience
Screenings will continue at the Alliance Française de Manille from December 1 to 6, with additional programs hosted at UPFI (November 25–26) and Benilde School of Design and Arts (November 28).
A Festival That Inspires
Now in its 28th year, the French Film Festival remains a highlight of Manila’s cultural scene, connecting filmmakers, cinephiles, students, and storytellers. More than just screenings, it is a vibrant forum for exchange, creativity, and artistic discovery.
This November, audiences are invited to explore the richness of French cinema, the power of women’s narratives, the promise of French-Filipino partnerships, and the magic of animation.
Admission to all screenings at SM Aura and SM City Manila is free. For schedules and updates, visit the French Embassy’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/FrenchEmbassyPH.
