16

The French Film Festival is back this May-June 2025, thanks to the quartet of the Embassy of France, Alliance Française, Institut Français and the international brand of a popular cinema chain. What began as a modest celebration in 2001 became a much-loved annual event that is symbolic, ensuring the continued fostering and appreciation of cross-cultural connections. The world of French cinema is not one without its own style, beauty, and charm.

In 2025, the lineup of films features a variety –  family-friendly animations, popular amongst the audience, as well as award-winning motion pictures.

Other than the remake of the historical The Count of Monte Cristo, Flow, the 2025 award-winning animated film will be screened. A Little Something Extra, France’s highest grossing film in 2024, would be your pick if you enjoy intelligent comedy movies.

So, if you’re new to French cinema or love the French culture, you’re invited to participate in this cinematic voyage (without having to fly all the way to France). Hopefully, you’ll have a deeper appreciation of French culture and a better idea of who’s who onscreen.

Films will be screened, in accordance with the guidelines set by Malaysia’s Film Censorship Board. Selected cinema outlets have been granted the opportunity to screen these movies within a stipulated timeframe. So, do remember to get your tickets now and don’t forget to triple-check the locations where the films will be screening, to avoid disappointment.

For those looking to watch within the Klang Valley, there’s

• GSC The Starling Mall, Petaling Jaya
• GSC The Mid Valley Megamall, Kuala Lumpur

You can do so from the 15th to the 25th of May 2025.

If Johor Bahru is more convenient and accessible to you, you may watch at

• GSC Paradigm Mall

You can do so from the 29th of May to the 1st of June 2025.

Otherwise, the two other cinema outlets are:

• GSC Gurney Plaza, Penang where you can catch certain films from the 22nd May 2025 – the 1st of June 2025;
• GSC CityOne Megamall, Kuching where they will be screening films from the 15th of May – the 18th of May 2025.

The 13 films to be shown will be in the original language, that is French. English subtitles will be provided.

This year marks the 23rd Le Film Festival.

Further information on this happening can be gathered from websites including GSC and the respective Alliance Francaise branches of the non-profit organisation, which has been bridging the gap between Malaysia and France since 1961.