Whether you’re a cinephile or just a fan of all things French, the vOilah! French Film Festival is back this year from November 14 to 30. Screened across Shaw Theatres, The Projector, and Alliance Francaise, this year’s festival is extra special—it’s the 40th anniversary! This is your chance to catch a total of 36 films, comprising those fresh from the box office and timeless classics that shaped the face of French cinema.
The films cover a wide range of genres, from chart-topping blockbusters and hilarious comedies to blood-pumping adventure tales and wholesome stories. Student discounts apply to screenings at Shaw Theatres and The Projector. Screenings at Alliance Francaise are priced at S$16 (non-member) and S$14.50 (member).
This year’s headline is “The Count of Monte Cristo”, billed as one of the most expensive French films ever made and boasts a 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. The film is an adaptation of Alex Dumas’ book of the same name, and follows the adventures of a wrongfully imprisoned Edmond Dantès who escapes, amasses a fortune, and returns as the enigmatic “Count of Monte Cristo” to exact his revenge.
Some notable films to catch
Here’s a short guide to some new films – screened at Shaw cinemas – you may find interesting:
Prodigies (2024): A charming exploration of sibling bond in their pursuit of their musical dreams, even in the face of serious illness which could destroy their dreams. It features Camille Razat, who played Camille in the Netflix series “Emily in Paris”.
Saint-Exupéry (2024): Follows the life and adventures of Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, the author “The Little Prince” as he goes in search of his pilot friend who’s lost in the Andes.
The line-up also includes shows that have yet to premiere in France, including:
How to Make a Killing: A dark comedy about an estranged married couple who chance upon ill-gotten money and their disastrous attempts to conceal it.
Robot T-0: A sci-fi film following a mother’s quest to get her child back with the help of a robot she stole.
The Projector will be showcasing some iconic films that’ve left an indelible mark in French cinema, including:
Purple Noon (1960): Charming Tom Ripley was sent to Italy to retrieve a wealthy heir but, tempted by wealth and a luxurious lifestyle, he spirals into deceit and murder to take over the man’s identity.
Amélie (2001): A crowd favourite, Amélie is a heartwarming tale of a quirky young woman in Paris who embarks on a whimsical mission to bring joy to those around her while discovering love and adventure along the way.
The 400 Blows (1959): A story of a misunderstood young boy in Paris who, struggling with neglect and societal expectations, turns to petty crime and rebellion in his search for freedom and belonging.
Free screenings!
There will also be two free screenings at The Projector, brought to you by The Embassy of France! Tickets must be reserved in advance at The Projector’s online platform. The films are:
Amelie: 24 November, 7:30pm
The 400 Blows: 26 November, 8:30pm
The festival will close with a special screening of “Spirit World” (November 30, 4pm at Shaw Lido) by Singaporean director Eric Khoo. The film follows a singer who dies suddenly while on tour in Japan, but her spirit lives on and she embarks on a journey to find humanity in the after-world. This French-Singapore co-production stars legendary French actress Catherine Deneuve, alongside Japanese actors Masaaki Sakai and Yutaka Takenouchi.
Collectively, these films offer a glimpse into the vibrant landscape of French cinema today, showcasing the talent and creativity of its filmmakers. For more info, check vOilah! French Film Festival‘s website or visit the respective cinemas’ websites to purchase tickets.
