French May Cinema Programme

A selection of 21 films will be screened in this edition of French May Cinema Programme, including the four films from the Virtually Versailles Screening Series, nine films dedicated to the topics of women empowerment and eight feature films co-presented with Hong Kong International Film Festival as part of the Cine Fan FOR EVER GODARD programme.

The Virtually Versailles screening series is part of an interactive exhibition that invites audience to embark on an interactive journey to relive the magic of the Versailles. Le Château de Versailles, or the Palace of Versailles, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979 and one of the most visited monuments in the world with approximately 8 million tourists every year.  It is also one of the most emblematic sites representing France as a Kingdom in the 17^th and 18th-century, a witness of the history from Louis XIV, to Louis XV and Louis XVI.

Many films were shot at the Palace of Versailles, especially drama films inspired by historical events, by the greatest directors

This year the French May Cinema Programme also celebrates Women with several feature films highlighting their empowerment through centuries. Embark on a journey starting with the late Delphine Seyrig (Jeanne Dielman) – the Greatest film of all time (British Film Institute) – sail through 1990s Kabul under Taliban rule with The Swallows of Kabul, and reach the Greek shores with Laure Calamy and Olivia Côte (Two Tickets to Greece) in a refreshing tale of female camaraderie filled with laughter and tears. Savour our two enchanting new releases and seven mesmerising classics of French cinema.

Last but not least, Alliance Française de Hong Kong is thrilled to co-present selected films from Cine Fan FOR EVER GODARD with Hong Kong International Film Festival Society. A selection of 8 feature films directed by the late legendary Jean-Luc Godard will be screened as part of the French May Cinema Programme from May to June 2023. It focuses on “Women in Godard”, celebrating female stars such as Jean Seberg, Geneviève Galéa, Macha Méril, Brigitte Bardot, and many other muses who shaped Godard’s genius cinematography.