French Film Festival

Gainsbourg: Je t'aime … moi non plus

Now in its 21st edition, the Alliance Française French Film Festival kicks off in Sydney in less than a week. This year there is a grand total of 43 films, including comedies, love stories, thrillers, films that reject the injustice of a system, a way of life, oppression, and films that support human rights, freedom of thought and dignity.

Directed by the very popular Amelie director Jean-Pierre Jeunet, and the opening night choice for this year, is the captivating must-see, thrilling comedy Micmacs. If you liked Amelie, chances are you’ll enjoy this too. My favourite of the festival is the closing night’s Gainsbourg: Je t’aime … moi non plus feature, a directorial debut of the graphic novelist Joann Sfar. Of course, the film is about the father of French pop, Serge Gainsbourg. It portrays the life of the infamous iconic singer, poet, writer, actor and general provocateur. I’m really looking forward to seeing the fashions and music scenes of the times on the big screen, as well as finding out more about Gainsbourg’s fabled life. French Film Festival is showing in Sydney from Tuesday 2 March until Sunday 21 March. For more info, check out the Alliance Française French Film Festival website.

One more 2010 diary date

Phoenix

Frenchies are coming back in the new year! Versailles-based indie pop-rockers Phoenix are coming to play a few live shows for us again in March 2010. I had so much fun seeing them earlier this year at the Enmore Theatre. I still get shivers just remembering the euphoria of the crowd. If you missed out on the ultimate dance party/gig Phoenix experience, be sure to get your hands on their Hordern Pavilion tickets which go on sale Thursday 10 December. No doubt their first Sydney show for Tuesday 2 March will be a sell-out, with more dates to follow.

Note: Phoenix just announced a second Sydney show. Pencil in Wednesday 3 March at Big Top Luna Park. Enjoy!