'There is something for everyone'

Cork has said bonjour to this year’s French Film Festival.

This year’s festival, now in its 34th year at The Gate Cinema features a strong programme packed with multi-award nominated films, Irish premieres and a special screening for schools. It runs until Sunday 12 March.

With the theme of travel, the lineup features the best of French and Francophone cinema with films from France, Belgium, Canada and Senegal being screened.

Speaking at the launch of the festival, Finance Minister Michael McGrath said: “The Cork French Film Festival is a firm favourite on the arts calendar in Cork and beyond.

“It’s another example of the strong ties between France and Ireland; historically, culturally and commercially. The programme is a testament to the dedication of the festival’s directors, its hardworking committee and the sponsors, all of whom have helped to curate an exceptional programme of world class cinema in Cork,” he said.

Deputy Lord Mayor of Cork Cllr Damian Boylan, also in attendance at the launch, said: “The organisers of the Cork French Film Festival, which has been running successfully for decades, have yet again outdone themselves with this programme. It’s especially heartwarming to see the inclusion of 'Rémi, Nobody’s Boy,' aimed specifically at school children. The festival attracts hundreds of students every year across Cork and Limerick and I’m sure 2023 will be no exception.”

Alliance Française de Cork President and Festival Co-Director Valérie David-McGonnell said: “In this year’s programme, we have endeavoured to reflect this diversity with French but also Belgian, Canadian and Senegalese films.

“However, the Cork French Film Festival is not only for people who can speak French, as all our movies have English subtitles. There is something for everyone: excellent comedies, dramas, family film, and school screenings.”

Cork French Film Festival Co-Director and French Honorary Consul in Cork Josselin Le Gall said: “The Cork French Film Festival is more than just a celebration of cinema. It is a celebration of the deep and strong ties between Ireland and France. For centuries, our two nations have shared a close bond, built on a shared history, culture, sport and values. The festival is a testament to the strength of that bond and the enduring friendship between our peoples.”

The launch of the festival took place in the Imperial Hotel, where the French Circle, which went on to become the Alliance Francaise de Cork, held its committee meetings in the 1950s.

See corkfrenchfilmfestival.com for more.