French May Cinema 2025: Iconic Legends and Asian Connections

Description

From 20 May to 4 June, the French May Cinema Programme 2025 invites film lovers to explore two thematic cycles showcasing the richness of French cinema. The first, Biopic Cineart, honours legendary French cultural figures like singer-actor Charles Aznavour (Monsieur Aznavour), actress Sarah Bernhardt (The Divine Sarah Bernhardt) and artist Niki de Saint Phalle (Niki), through compelling films and remarkable performances by Tahar Rahim, Sandrine Kiberlain and Charlotte Le Bon.

Meanwhile, the second France-Asia Bridges cycle highlights cultural exchanges between l’Hexagone with Asian countries, featuring evocative stories set in countries like South Korea and Japan. Special events include a restored 4K screening of renowned soprano Maria Callas’ 1958 Paris Opera debut in Callas – Paris, 1958, preceded by a presentation by composer Michel Reis; and award-winning film Holy Cow pays tribute to rural life. Acclaimed artist and filmmaker Chantal Stoman presents two documentaries exploring Hollywood in L.A L.A End and the Japanese city of Ōme in Ōmecittà. From 21 May to 21 June, Stoman’s works are also highlighted in Nouvelle Vague, an exhibition of her evocative photography at La Galerie Paris 1839.