Festivals - The 12th French Cinematheque Festival: A Grand Celebration of American Icons, Global Cinema, and Cinematic Heritage

By Mulder, 05 february 2025

From March 5 to 9, 2025, the French Cinematheque Festival will return for its twelfth edition, offering an extraordinary lineup of film screenings, discussions, retrospectives, and special events dedicated to the art of cinema. Held at the prestigious Cinémathèque Française in Paris, this annual event has gained a reputation as a haven for cinephiles, offering a deep dive into the works of celebrated filmmakers while also shining a spotlight on overlooked cinematic treasures. This year's festival will focus on two influential figures from American cinema, John McTiernan and Susan Seidelman, while also celebrating film restorations, global cinema, and the enduring power of the theatrical experience.

John McTiernan, the visionary behind some of the most defining action films of the 1980s and 1990s, will be a central guest at the festival. With classics like Predator, Die Hard, and The Hunt for Red October, McTiernan revolutionized the action genre by blending explosive spectacle with meticulous storytelling. His precise, elegant visual style has left an indelible mark on Hollywood, making his films both commercially successful and critically acclaimed. Festival attendees will have the unique opportunity to engage with McTiernan through a series of screenings and discussions. The retrospective will include Last Action Hero, The Hunt for Red October, The 13th Warrior, Die Hard, The Thomas Crown Affair, and Predator, with several of these films being introduced personally by the director. A highlight of the event will be a special discussion following the screening of The Hunt for Red October, offering insights into McTiernan's approach to tension and storytelling. In addition to these screenings, a panel discussion will delve into McTiernan's contributions to the evolution of the action genre, his approach to character-driven spectacle, and his influence on contemporary filmmakers. Attendees will also get a rare glimpse into his creative process, challenges he faced in Hollywood, and the legacy of his most famous works.

Susan Seidelman, known for her groundbreaking work in independent cinema and her unique portrayal of female protagonists, will also be celebrated at the festival. Her films often explore themes of identity, empowerment, and social change, blending comedy with drama in innovative ways. Desperately Seeking Susan, which helped launch Madonna's acting career, remains a quintessential film of 1980s New York, encapsulating the vibrant, artistic energy of the era. The festival will showcase a selection of Seidelman’s most influential films, including She-Devil, Making Mr. Right, Smithereens, and Desperately Seeking Susan. These screenings will be accompanied by in-depth discussions where Seidelman will share her experiences working in the industry, her inspirations, and her thoughts on the evolving landscape of independent filmmaking. As part of this tribute, a dedicated talk will explore Seidelman's career trajectory, the representation of women in her films, and how she helped redefine the romantic comedy and feminist film narratives. An additional masterclass will offer young filmmakers an opportunity to learn about independent filmmaking, artistic vision, and the importance of strong female-led stories in cinema.

Beyond its focus on American auteurs, the festival remains committed to its tradition of showcasing the latest film restorations and highlighting global cinema. This year, audiences will have the chance to rediscover the works of Pedro Costa, Marleen Gorris, Werner Schroeter, Jacques Bral, and Christian Lara. Special tributes will also be dedicated to the legendary Henry Fonda and various underappreciated film movements, including Flemish cinema, Korean film history, and the silent films of Georgia. These restorations serve as a testament to the enduring power of cinema, ensuring that classic films are preserved for future generations. This section of the festival will also include a behind-the-scenes look at the meticulous work involved in film restoration, featuring experts who will discuss the technical challenges and importance of preserving film history.

One of the festival’s most thought-provoking events will be a dedicated day exploring the history and future of movie theaters, co-organized with the CNC (Centre National du Cinéma et de l'Image Animée). This discussion will address the challenges and transformations facing the theatrical experience in an era dominated by streaming platforms. Industry experts, historians, and filmmakers will debate the importance of preserving the magic of the big screen and adapting to the changing landscape of film distribution. Key topics will include the rise of boutique cinemas, the impact of digital projection on film aesthetics, and innovative ways theaters can engage audiences in a streaming-dominated world. Attendees will also hear from directors and producers about their experiences navigating the balance between streaming releases and theatrical premieres.

Adding to the festival’s unique offerings, several film concerts will be held throughout the event. These live performances will combine classic silent films with live musical accompaniments, providing audiences with an immersive, multisensory experience that bridges the gap between past and present. These concerts will feature newly composed scores performed by live orchestras, adding a fresh dimension to early cinematic masterpieces. Highlights will include restored silent films accompanied by experimental music, showcasing how sound can reinvent a visual experience and create a new dialogue between different art forms.

For those looking to engage more deeply with the art of filmmaking, the festival will also include a variety of workshops, interactive exhibits, and behind-the-scenes presentations. From discussions on film criticism to practical sessions on cinematography techniques, attendees will have a chance to gain valuable insights from industry professionals. A special segment will be devoted to young and emerging filmmakers, with mentorship programs designed to support new voices in cinema. Screenwriting and directing workshops will provide hands-on experience, while networking events will allow participants to connect with fellow filmmakers and industry experts.

With its carefully curated program of screenings, discussions, and special events, the twelfth edition of the French Cinematheque Festival promises to be a must-attend event for cinephiles and industry professionals alike. Whether revisiting iconic action films, engaging in discussions with pioneering directors, or experiencing the beauty of restored classics, attendees will have the opportunity to celebrate the rich legacy and bright future of cinema. Mark your calendars for this exceptional cinematic gathering and immerse yourself in five days of film history, artistry, and innovation at the French Cinematheque Festival 2025.

John McTiernan events programmation :
05/03/2025 20h00 - Last Action Hero (1993) (movie presented by John McTiernam)
06/03/2024 17h45 - The Hunt for Red October (1990) (followed by a talk with John McTiernan)
07/03/2025 14h30 - The 13th Warrior (1999) (movie presented by John McTiernan)
07/03/2025 16h30 – Die hard 1988) (movie presented by John McTiernan)
08/03/2025 14h00 – Thomas Crown (1999) (followed by a discussion with John McTiernan)
08/03/2025 18h00 - Predator (1987) (movie presented by John McTiernan)

Susan Seidelman events programmation :
07/03/2025 18h00 - She-Devil (1989) (followed by a talk with Susan Seidelman)
07/03/2025 21h00 - Making Mr. Right (1987) (movie presented by Susan Seidelman)
08/03/2025 17h00 – Smithereens (1982) (movie presented by Susan Seidelman)
09/03/2025 15h30 - Desperately Seeking Susan (1985) (followed by a talk with Susan Seidelman)

(Source : press release)