French May Arts Festival provides Hong Kong audiences with the opportunity to appreciate the finest French art. In addition to various art exhibitions, the highly anticipated film showcase is not to be missed! From May 25 to June 7, 2022, the Hong Kong French Cultural Association and the French Consulate General in Hong Kong and Macau will take everyone on an extraordinary musical journey through a series of outstanding French films. Here are 3 must-see films recommended for you:
“Life of the French Music Father” (Gainsbourg (Vie Héroïque)) 2010
The story traces back to Serge Gainsbourg, the Jewish young man originally named Lucien Ginsburg: how he survived in occupied Paris in the 1940s, and later transformed into an internationally renowned poet, composer, and singer. The film explores how this young man, who loved painting, grew up to become famous worldwide for his avant-garde musical style, and then embarked on his entire artistic career to the throne of French cultural idol. This is a legend, a poetic story. The accuracy of the account is no longer the focus, the key is Gainsbourg’s own dreams, inner nightmares, and all his anecdotes.
Screening Schedule
Date: May 31, 2022
Time: 7:30 PM
Location: Jordan Center Library, French Cultural Association
Get Tickets Here
“The Umbrellas of Cherbourg” (Les Parapluies de Cherbourg) 1964
Returning to 1957: Geneviève is the daughter of Mrs. Emery, the owner of an umbrella shop in Cherbourg, France; she falls in love with Guy, an employee at a car repair shop, but their relationship is constantly thwarted by Geneviève’s mother. Despite having to take care of her seriously ill family members, Guy is called up to serve two years in the front lines during the Algerian War. On the night before their separation, they consummate their relationship. During their time apart, Geneviève receives very few letters from Guy, causing her to doubt his sincerity. Under pressure from her mother, she marries Roland Cassard, a jeweler from Paris, while pregnant. Two years later, after completing his military service, Guy returns to Cherbourg, hoping to reclaim his love with Geneviève, only to find that everything has changed…
Screening Schedule (1)
Date: May 28, 2022
Time: 2:00 PM
Location: Broadway Cinema Center
Screening Schedule (2)
Date: June 5, 2022
Time: 1:00 PM
Location: MOViE MOViE PACIFIC PLACE
Purchase Tickets here
“Barbara” 2017
The film is about to start shooting, with the actress tasked with portraying the famous French chanteuse Barbara. She devotes all her energy to studying the script and lyrics, delving into the nuances of singing, posture, life mindset, and even the smallest quirks, as if embodying the real person. At the same time, the director tirelessly visits Barbara’s old acquaintances and former residence, immersing himself in the images and music she left behind, experiencing both sorrow and joy, tracing every clue. As time goes by, will they finally uncover the secret veil of the songstress’s allure?
Screening Schedule (1)
Date: May 26, 2022
Time: 8:00 PM
Location: Broadway Cinema Center
Screening Schedule (2)
Date: June 4, 2022
Time: 8:05 PM
Location: PALACE ifc
Purchase Tickets here
Image source and learn more: Hong Kong French Cultural Association
