The French Embassy in the Philippines and Micronesia, in partnership with SM Supermalls and SM Cinema, is presenting the 28th edition of the French Film Festival, Manila's annual meeting spot for lovers of foreign cinema. Some of the most inventive and colorful French film lineups will be shown at SM Aura and SM City Manila Cinemas from November 24 to 30.
For almost thirty years, the French Film Festival has provided Filipino audiences with an opportunity to learn about French culture through a variety of bold, intimate, and thought-provoking films.
This year, the French Film Festival welcomes a new era of collaboration, cross-cultural exchange, and creative synergy by showcasing French-Filipino co-productions, feminist stories, and the broad area of animation.
Feminist Cinema and Strong Female Voices with Guest French Actress
In keeping with France's feminist diplomacy and the 2024 direction set by French Ambassador Marie Fontanel, the 28th French Film Festival places a high priority on women and women's tales. This year's programming features fascinating tales of femininity, visionary female filmmakers, and stories that spark conversation about equality, identity, and resiliency.
A rising French actress who is well-known worldwide for her strong, multi-layered performances and recent partnerships with well-known Hollywood talent will be a special guest at the Festival, adding to the excitement. She will lead talks after a few screenings of three films that highlight feminist issues, ranging from the fight for representation in sports, society, and culture to bravery and independence.
Animation Takes the Spotlight
Through animated storytelling, the French Film Festival continues to broaden its creative frontiers. Audiences may anticipate ANIMAHENASYON (November 25–26) at Samsung Hall, SM Aura, in collaboration with the Animation Council of the Philippines, which will feature screenings, discussions, and an awards ceremony honoring the vitality of animated cinema.
Amélie et la Métaphysique des Tubes, La Plus Prélieuse des Marchandises, and Maya Donne-moi un titre are a few examples of animated works that demonstrate the craftsmanship, wonder, and emotional depth of French animation.
A Rich and Diverse Lineup
This year’s curated selection spans newly released features, beloved classics, animated titles, and cross-cultural collaborations. Films include:
- 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) and Dix pour cent (Cédric Klapisch)
More French film titles will feature fresh talent, heritage stories, and global perspectives.
A Historic Milestone: France and the Philippines Sign Co-Production Agreement, Cooperation with the Film Development Council of the Philippines
The historic Co-Production Agreement, which was signed on May 14 during the Cannes Film Festival, is one of the main features of the French Film Festival. This much-awaited collaboration between France and the Philippines opens up new avenues for filmmakers to work together more intimately, increasing the likelihood of both local and international distribution and fortifying cultural relations between the two countries.
In collaboration with the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) and France's National Center for Cinema and Animation (CNC), the Festival is holding a two-day Co-Production Conference on November 27–28 at SM Samsung Hall, Meeting Room 1, SMX Aura, to commemorate this milestone. In order to promote new creative partnerships and potential film projects, the conference will bring together French and Filipino producers, directors, and business leaders.
As a nod to recent collaborative success, the French Film Festival will screen the Filipino adaptation Call My Agent, shown back-to-back with its beloved French original, Dix pour cent.
With Alliance Française de Manille and Universities
Screenings continue from December 1–6 at the Alliance Française de Manille, with special programs also held at UPFI (November 25–26) and Benilde School of Design and Arts (November 28).
A Festival That Continues to Inspire
Now in its 28th year, the French Film Festival remains a fixture in Manila’s cultural calendar, uniting cinema lovers, industry professionals, students, and storytellers alike. Beyond showcasing films, it serves as a vibrant platform for conversation, collaboration, and artistic discovery.
This year, it invites audiences to experience the richness of French cinema, the strength of women’s stories, the promise of French-Filipino co-creation, and the boundless possibilities of animation.
For the 28th French Film Festival screenings, at SM Aura and SM City Manila, admission is free. For schedules and information on the festival events, visit the French Embassy’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/FrenchEmbassyPH.
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