Unifrance’s 31st edition of Rendez-Vous With French Cinema kicked off in New York amid geopolitical tensions and challenges facing the indie film industry. The festival, which aims to promote French cinema in the U.S., launched on March 5 with a packed screening at the Walter Reade Theater for the New York premiere of François Ozon’s adaptation of Albert Camus’ novel, “The Stranger.” Unfortunately, Ozon was unable to attend, having recorded a video message explaining his absence due to safety concerns stemming from the ongoing U.S.-Israeli war on Iran.
Daniela Elstner, managing director of Unifrance, noted in an interview that the organization had anticipated potential cancellations due to the current political climate but felt it was important to proceed with the event. “We knew it was going to be a particular year due to what’s happening in Iran, and we were prepared for some last-minute cancellations, but we didn’t consider axing this edition like we had done in 2020 when the pandemic broke out,” she stated. A few guests, including Ozon and Pauline Loquès, whose film “Nino” recently won the best first film award at the César Awards, opted out of attending, but the overall turnout remained strong.
Elstner expressed gratitude for the support shown by the French delegation at the opening night. “Everyone showed up for the red carpet and opening, it was heartwarming,” she said. Following the screening, a cocktail gathering included filmmakers such as Arnaud Desplechin and Stéphane Demoustier, as well as producers and international film executives, showcasing the vibrant network surrounding the festival.
The Significance of the Rendez-Vous Showcase
The weeklong showcase is critical for increasing the visibility of French cinema in North America, a market that, while culturally significant, presents challenges for foreign-language films. In 2025, French films saw approximately 42 million theatrical admissions globally, but only 2.2 million tickets were sold in North America. Despite these figures, Elstner highlighted the enthusiastic turnout at Rendez-Vous screenings and masterclasses, as well as the participation of prominent U.S. Distributors, as evidence of an enduring appreciation for French films among American audiences.
“It’s very invigorating to see that Film at Lincoln Center, our partner at the Rendez-Vous, is able to attract crowds of young cinephiles and fans of French movies every year,” Elstner noted. “Most of our screenings are sold out, even jam-packed.” This year’s lineup features 22 films, showcasing both emerging directors and established filmmakers, many of which have debuted at prestigious festivals such as Cannes, Venice, and Locarno.
Notable Films and Highlights
In addition to “The Stranger” and “Nino,” the festival features several anticipated films, including:
- Olivier Assayas’s political drama “The Wizard of the Kremlin,” starring Jude Law and Paul Dano.
- Dominik Moll’s César-nominated procedural “Case 137,” which is set during the Yellow Vests protests.
- Valérie Donzelli’s Venice prize-winning film “At Work.”
- Arnaud Desplechin’s melodrama “Two Pianos.”
- Stéphane Demoustier’s historical epic “The Great Arch.”
- New York premieres including Hafsia Herzi’s coming-of-age drama “The Little Sister,” and Cédric Klapisch’s “Colors of Time.”
Challenges and Opportunities
Elstner discussed how the current geopolitical situation has impacted the organization of the festival. “We actually emailed everyone in our delegation to ask whether they still wanted to make the trip to the U.S.,” she explained. “it’s a personal decision which they had to make.” While a few opted out, the festival retained a robust roster of attendees eager to engage with audiences.
Despite ongoing challenges in the U.S. Market, such as a decline in box office revenue for foreign films, Elstner remains optimistic. “Most screenings are sold out, sometimes jam-packed,” she noted, highlighting the passion of attendees who engage deeply with the films. “There’s a vibrant subculture around French cinema.” The festival has also fostered connections with universities and cultural institutions, contributing to the growth of future audiences for French film.
Looking Ahead
As the festival progresses, it will continue to serve as a vital platform for showcasing the richness of contemporary French filmmaking. Unifrance has also relaunched the Young French Cinema festival, aiming to introduce new French filmmakers to audiences across the U.S. And Canada.
With this year’s festivities wrapping up with Julia Ducournau’s “Alpha,” the Rendez-Vous With French Cinema remains an essential event for both filmmakers and fans alike. The ongoing dedication to promoting French cinema in the U.S. Signals a commitment to cultural exchange, even amidst challenging times. Comments and shares on experiences from the festival are encouraged as audiences reflect on the diverse narratives presented during this pivotal showcase.
