The Embassy of France in the Philippines and Micronesia in partnership with SM Supermalls and SM Cinema present the 28th edition of the French Film Festival, Manila’s annual rendez-vous for lovers of global cinema. Some of the most dynamic and forward-looking line up of French films will be shown in SM Aura and SM City Manila Cinemas from November 24 to 30.
For almost three decades, the French Film Festival has been a gateway for Filipino audiences to experience French culture through a diverse slate of films: bold, intimate, and thought-provoking.
This year, the French Film Festival embraces a new era of collaboration, cultural exchange, and creative synergy as it shines a spotlight on French-Filipino co-productions, feminist storytelling, and the expansive world of animation.
Feminist Cinema and Strong Female Voices with Guest French Actress
In continuation of France’s Feminist diplomacy and the direction set in 2024 under French Ambassador Marie Fontanel, the 28th French Film Festival places women, and women’s narratives at the forefront. This year’s programming celebrates visionary female filmmakers, powerful stories of womanhood, and narratives that spark dialogue on equality, identity, and resilience.
A rising French actress globally recognized for her intense, layered performances and recent collaboration with major Hollywood talents is set to join the Festival as a special guest, adding to the excitement. She will lead conversations after select screenings of three films that highlight feminist themes, from courage and independence to the fight for representation in sports, society, and culture.
Animation Takes the Spotlight
The French Film Festival further expands its creative horizons through animated storytelling. In partnership with the Animation Council of the Philippines, audiences can look forward to ANIMAHENASYON (November 25–26) at Samsung Hall, SM Aura, featuring screenings, talks, and an awards night celebrating the vibrancy of animated filmmaking.
Animated works such as Amélie et la Métaphysique des Tubes, La Plus Précieuse des Marchandises, and Maya Donne-moi un titre showcase the artistry, 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
One of the French Film Festival’s defining highlights is the landmark Co-Production Agreement signed on May 14 at the Cannes Film Festival. This long-awaited partnership between France and the Philippines paves the way for deeper collaborations between filmmakers, expanding opportunities for local and international distribution and enriching cultural understanding between the two nations.
To bring this milestone to life, the Festival is hosting a two-day Co-Production Conference on November 27–28 at SM Samsung Hall, Meeting Room 1, SMX Aura, in partnership with the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) and France’s National Center for Cinema and Animation (CNC). The conference will gather French and Filipino producers, directors, and industry experts, fostering new creative relationships and future film projects.
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
