Festivals - PIFFF 2023: A Successful Opening Ceremony Sets the Stage for a lovely Cinematic Week

By Mulder, Paris, Max Linder Panorama, 06 december 2023

The Paris International Fantastic Film Festival (PIFFF) kicked off its 12th edition with a spellbinding opening ceremony tonight, promising an exceptional week celebrating the frontiers of fantastic cinema. The festival will run until December 12, 2023 at Paris' iconic Max Linder Panorama cinema.

The new short film, written and directed by Anaïs Vachez, was presented in her presence this evening and captured our attention. It plunges us into the world of Ada, an eight-year-old girl who witnesses the constant tensions between her parents. One evening, a particularly virulent argument breaks out, revealing the true nature of these tumultuous relationships. This short film offers a subtle and poignant exploration of family dynamics, highlighting Ada's torment in the face of the conflicts that shake her environment. Anaïs Vachez's sensitive direction, combined with photography by Anne-Charlotte Henry and Arthur Bourdaud, creates a captivating visual atmosphere.  The soundtrack, orchestrated by Jimmy Tillier, reinforces the emotion generated by this delicate story. The cast, comprising Alizée Caugnies, Vanessa Fonte, Pierre Rochefort and Gabrielle Atger, delivers outstanding performances, convincingly embodying the complex characters in this poignant tale. Anaïs Vachez's short film reveals a deep and troubling side to human relationships, inviting us to reflect on the nature of the family and the trials that shape it. A cinematographic work that will undoubtedly remain engraved in people's minds, leaving a lasting emotional imprint.

The opening evening was marked by the screening of the new film Dream scenario, starring Nicolas Cage, the undisputed icon of action cinema, in a role that goes against the grain, illustrating just how excellent an actor he is, capable of blending effortlessly into a highly original film. Directed by the renowned Kristoffer Borgli under the A24 banner, the opening film was widely applauded, and ushered in a successful cinema career and a likely Oscar nomination for Nicolas Cage.

Dream Scenario, the 2023 American dark-comedy fantasy, written and directed by Kristoffer Borgli, attracted attention with its star-studded cast and premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival on September 9, 2023. Produced by Ari Aster and Lars Knudsen under their Square Peg banner, in collaboration with Nicolas Cage, Jacob Jaffke, and Tyler Campellone, the film stars Cage, Julianne Nicholson, Michael Cera, Tim Meadows, Dylan Gelula and Dylan Baker. As the film explores the unexpected consequences of this dreamlike notoriety, outstanding performances from Nicolas Cage, Julianne Nicholson and the rest of the cast add fascinating depth to this dark comedy.

Dream Scenario offers a unique reflection on the vagaries of pop culture, with an intelligent and entertaining approach. The stellar cast, innovative direction and positive reception make this film a cinematic experience not to be missed.

The highlight of the week will be the closing ceremony on Tuesday, December 12, at 8 p.m., with Magnus Martens' There's Something in the Barn. Martens, whose exceptional career spans from Norway to the USA, promises an explosive conclusion to the festival with his unique blend of Christmas ploitation and festive horror.

The festival poster, proudly unveiled for the 12th edition, invites cinephiles to never trust appearances, symbolizing PIFFF's blend of past and present, familiar places and distant horizons. The Panorama Max Linder is transformed into a sparkling stage of imaginary chaos, where anything can happen, promising an unforgettable cinematic experience from December 6 to 12.

Since its creation in 2011, the PIFFF has become a must-see event for fans of fantasy, science fiction and horror films from all over the world. The eclectic program, which ranges from cult films to independent productions, provides an exceptional showcase for emerging and established filmmakers.

This year's edition, after overcoming organizational difficulties, presents a meticulous program of twenty-six features and sixteen shorts, including twenty-two French premieres. The festival's team of volunteers, driven by their passion for fantasy cinema, offers a varied program, from exceptional previews like Godzilla Minus On to Nicolas Cage's latest film.

Beyond screenings, PIFFF actively engages with the community through workshops, masterclasses and special events, encouraging the next generation of fantastic filmmakers. Awards for excellence in various categories underline the festival's commitment to promoting emerging talent.

As the PIFFF festival in Paris unfolds, it goes beyond being just a film event. It has become an annual celebration bringing together fans of fantastic films from all over the world, offering a stimulating platform for exploring new artistic and narrative frontiers. With each new edition, the PIFFF continues to flourish, consolidating its place as a must-attend event for those who love to plunge into the extraordinary through the seventh art.

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Information ;
Individual tickets for each screening on sale online on the Max Linder Panorama website
Also at the Max Linder Panorama box office, 24 boulevard Poissonnière 75009 Paris
- Full price: €11.5
- Reduced rate: €8.50 (under-26s / students / unemployed / over-60s / large families)
- Under-15s: €5
UGC Illimité and LePass cards are accepted for the festival (subject to availability), but can only be used from one hour before the screening. If the screening is at 8pm, you can use your card from 7pm! You can't book online with these cards. Please take precautions.
Official website: https://www.pifff.fr/2023/edito-en

Photos and video : Boris Colletier / Mulderville