French Film Series - Spring 2020

 

7-10 p.m. in Mother Rosalie Hill Hall, Warren Auditorium (unless otherwise stated)

  • French with English subtitles
  • Free
  • Everyone is welcome
  • Click on the title to watch the trailer

February 17   L'Ascension (2017)

Presenter:  Prof. Eliza Jane Smith

Samy Dhiakate, a jobless young man living in the rundown La Courneuve commune of Paris, is in love with his childhood friend Nadia. She refuses to date him because she doesn't believe he will commit to more than a fling with her. When Samy asks what he can do to prove himself, Nadia sarcastically suggests he should try and climb Mt Everest to earn her love. So, he does.

March 10   Ma vie de courgette (2016)

Presenter:  Prof. Bénédicte López

"Courgette" (Zucchini) is an intriguing nickname for a 9-year-old boy. Although his unique story is surprisingly universal. After his mother's disappearance, Courgette is befriended by a police officer Raymond, who accompanies him to his new foster home filled with other orphans his age. At first he struggles to find his place in this strange, at times, hostile environment. Yet with Raymond's help and his new-found friends, Courgette eventually learns to trust and might find true love.

April 06   Mauvaises herbes (2018)

Presenter:  Prof. Eliza Jane Smith
 
Wael, a former street child, makes a living from small scams with his adoptive mother and partner-in-crime Monique. When this unconventional duo swindles the wrong guy, an old acquaintance of Monique's who is now in charge of a support organization for troubled teens, they have no choice but to become his interim secretary and educator in order to redeem themselves. Facing six willful kids determined to spoil all his efforts, Wael's own personal story and inventive tricks become the key to gaining their trust - and he soon realizes that he too is given a chance to heal his past and find his place in society.  Written by cineuropa.org
 
May 07   Intouchables (2011) in Salomon Lecture Hall (MH 140)
 
Presenter:  Prof. Bénédicte López
 
In Paris, the aristocratic and intellectual Philippe is a quadriplegic millionaire who is interviewing candidates for the position of his carer, with his red-haired secretary Magalie. Out of the blue, Driss cuts the line of candidates and brings a document from the Social Security and asks Phillipe to sign it to prove that he is seeking a job position so he can receive his unemployment benefit. Philippe challenges Driss, offering him a trial period of one month to gain experience helping him. Then Driss can decide whether he would like to stay with him or not. Driss accepts the challenge and moves to the mansion, changing the boring life of Phillipe and his employees. Written by Claudio Carvalho, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil