The fifth season of the “Femmes de cinéma” podcast, a project spearheaded by the Lab Femmes de cinéma, has welcomed acclaimed French actress, screenwriter and director Valérie Donzelli. The latest episode, released today, February 16, 2026, offers a deep dive into Donzelli’s perspective on cinema as a space for freedom and creative expression.
“Femmes de cinéma” consistently provides a platform for prominent women in the French film industry, and Donzelli’s participation continues this tradition of highlighting influential voices. The podcast, a partnership with Le Film Français, is available on the publication’s website, offering listeners access to insightful conversations with leading figures in the world of French cinema. Donzelli’s work has consistently challenged conventions and explored complex themes, making her a compelling subject for the series.
Valérie Donzelli has established herself as a key figure in contemporary French cinema, known for her bold and innovative filmography. Her work often engages with feminist themes, most notably in her critically acclaimed film, “La Guerre est déclarée” (The War is Declared), which redefined the portrayal of women and relationships on screen. According to atlangue.com, Donzelli’s films continue to influence and support the evolution of French auteur cinema.
Donzelli’s journey in filmmaking began with a focus on originality and a desire to break from traditional storytelling. Her early short film, “Il fait beau dans la plus belle ville du monde” (It’s Beautiful in the Most Beautiful City in the World), garnered attention for its unique narrative approach, blending personal experiences with universal themes. She further solidified her position with “La Reine des pommes” (The Queen of Apples), exploring the complexities of love with a light touch and sincerity. As Vanity Fair reports, Donzelli’s approach to filmmaking is rooted in a sense of freedom, shaped by influences ranging from Agnès Varda to Jean-Luc Godard.
Her most recent work, “À pied d’œuvre,” adapted from Franck Courtès’s book, explores themes of artistic struggle and the changing nature of work. Donzelli drew inspiration from Sacha Guitry’s “Roman d’un tricheur” (Confession of a Cheat), aiming for a slow-paced narrative driven by voiceover. The film resonates with universal concerns about the gig economy and the prioritization of profit over human connection, as noted in the Vanity Fair interview. Donzelli’s ability to connect with audiences across borders was evident during a recent festival in Brazil, where the film received a similar reception to its premiere in France.
Donzelli’s filmography, as detailed on AlloCiné, showcases a diverse range of projects, demonstrating her versatility as a filmmaker. From “Main dans la main” to “Marguerite et Julien,” her films consistently explore themes of love, adversity, and the strength of human bonds, as highlighted by France TV.
The “Femmes de cinéma” podcast continues to be a vital resource for those interested in the perspectives of women shaping the French film landscape. With Valérie Donzelli’s contribution, the podcast further solidifies its role as a platform for insightful conversations and a celebration of female artistry in cinema.
As Donzelli continues to push boundaries and explore new creative avenues, her work promises to remain a significant force in contemporary French cinema. Listeners can find the latest episode featuring Valérie Donzelli on the Le Film Français website and anticipate further engaging discussions from the “Femmes de cinéma” podcast in the weeks to come.
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