Brisbane International Film Festival 2023 starts today, and this year, it’s showcasing a tantalizing array of French cinema that’s bound to captivate audiences. From heartwarming family dramas to thrilling crime mysteries and classic masterpieces, the French films at Brisbane International Film Festival 2023 promise a delightful cinematic experience. Here’s a sneak peek at some of the French gems gracing the festival’s screens.
*Queensland Premiere*
Ama Gloria is a heartfelt French film that explores the unique bond between a young French girl and her Cape Verdean nanny. Cléo, a vivacious young girl, resides in Paris with her father but is primarily nurtured by her beloved nanny, Gloria. When Gloria must return to Cape Verde following her mother’s passing, the prospect of a vacation eases the initial separation.
This moving family drama features captivating central performances from both actresses, making it a charming and emotionally resonant French drama.
*Queensland Premiere*
This is a film which has been incredibly popular on the festival circuit since its debut and winning the Palme d’Or at Cannes earlier in the year. It has screened at the Sydney Film Festival, Melbourne International Film Festival, Darwin International Film Festival and Adelaide Film Festivals.
Anatomy of a Fall tells the gripping story of a woman who discovers her husband’s lifeless body at the base of their mountain chalet. Sandra, a German writer, lives with her husband Samuel and their visually impaired son Daniel in a remote chalet in the French Alps. When Samuel’s death occurs under mysterious circumstances, an investigation ensues, and Sandra is accused of murder. This award-winning film combines elements of crime thriller and family drama, delivering exceptional central performances that delve into truth and ambition.
*Australian Premiere*
Described as the greatest post-war European work of art by Sight & Sound, Jean-Luc Godard’s Contempt is a classic of world cinema. Remastered and screened at the Cannes Film Festival 2023, this film features the iconic Brigitte Bardot. Set against the stunning backdrop of Villa Malaparte on Capri, Contempt portrays the tragic romance between Paul and his wife, Camille.
The film delves into themes of obsession and jealousy, with the legendary Fritz Lang making an appearance as himself. This glorious restoration also features the unforgettable soundtrack by multi-award winning composer, Georges Delerue.
*Queensland Premiere*
Mars Express is a stylish and futuristic film noir that combines 2D and 3D animation to create an adrenaline-fueled cinematic adventure. In 2022, private detective Aline Ruby and her android partner Carlos Rivera are hired to track down a notorious hacker on Mars. Their investigation takes them deep into the planet’s capital city, uncovering a dark story of brain farms, corruption, and a missing girl with a secret that could alter the universe’s fate.
This animation combines elements of sci-fi classics like Robocop and Alien, offering a thrilling glimpse into an imaginary futuristic world.
*Queensland Premiere*
Goodbye Julia is a Cannes Film Festival-winning Sudanese drama that explores the deep connection between two women from different backgrounds. Mona, a retired northern Sudanese singer, takes in Julia, a southern Sudanese widow, and her son, Daniel, after covering up a murder.
It was the first Sudanese feature to ever screen at Cannes. Goodbye Julia delves into themes of guilt, redemption, and the impact of Sudan’s turmoil on these women’s lives, offering an emotionally rewarding and engrossing narrative.
Tiger StripesMulti-country: France, Germany, Indonesia, Malaysia, Netherlands, Qatar, Singapore, Taiwan.
In this Cannes award-winning horror film, the tranquility of a serene Malaysian village is shattered when an carefree 11-year-old girl experiences unsettling physical transformations, turning her once-normal life upside down.
Filled with fear, she conceals these changes from everyone, unwittingly creating a rift between her and her dearest friends. Frustrated by her strained relationships and sudden mood swings, Zaffan embarks on a challenging journey to reintegrate herself into society, all the while grappling with the burden of concealing her ever-evolving body.
International Shorts From Afar: Whale’s Song
This is a short film directed by Neels Castillon, presents a moving story of a young mother who overcomes her fears to regain her freedom. The film explores the challenges faced by Rachel, who sleeps in her car with her daughter on a dike separating the sea from the industrial landscape of Dunkirk. When her husband, Paul, finds them, Rachel must confront him to secure her freedom and protect her daughter.
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The Brisbane International Film Festival 2023 is set to be a celebration of diverse cinematic voices, and the French films in the lineup are no exception. Whether you’re a fan of family dramas, crime mysteries, classic masterpieces, or international shorts, BIFF offers a rich tapestry of films that will engage and entertain. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the world through the lens of these talented filmmakers.
KEY INFO FOR BRISBANE INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL 2023
WHAT: Brisbane International Film Festival 2023
WHEN: October 26 – November 5, 2023
WHERE: Various cinemas in Brisbane
HOW: Purchase your tickets via the Brisbane International Film Festival website
HOW MUCH: Individual ticket prices are as follows:
- $18 Full-price.
- $15 Concession
BIFF TIX PACKS are also available for sharing with family and friends:
- 6 tickets for $96 ($78 for concession)
- 10 tickets for $150
- 20 tickets for $280
For more events with links to France and the Francophonie happening this month, check out our What’s on in October
