The French Film Festival is back in Manila with its most dynamic lineup yet — running from 24 to 30 November at SM Aura and SM City Manila cinemas. This is the last foreign film festival in the Philippines for 2025, so if you’re craving some international flair on the big screen, this is your chance. The festival offers an exciting mix of bold new releases, beloved classics, eye-catching animations, and some cool French-Filipino collaborations — all free to watch.

A lineup packed with must-see films

Don’t miss Partir un jour (Leave One Day), 13 jours 13 nuits (13 Days, 13 Nights), La Petite Dernière (The Little Sister), Coutures, Elsewhere at Night, and Dracula by Luc Besson. Classics like Le Roi et l’Oiseau and Le Pharaon also make an appearance. Plus, catch the premiere of The Shrinking Man with Jean Dujardin, coming to cinemas this December.

Women’s stories take center stage

This year’s festival puts the spotlight on female filmmakers and their powerful tales of courage, independence, and equality. Adding to the buzz, a rising French actress with an impressive Hollywood track record will be on hand to join conversations after select screenings that highlight feminist themes. Keep an eye out for her — you might just spot the next big star.

Animation shines bright

Animation lovers are in for a treat thanks to a partnership with the Animation Council of the Philippines. From 25 to 26 November at Samsung Hall, SM Aura, the festival will host animated screenings, talks and an awards night celebrating the art of animation. Highlights include Amélie et la Métaphysique des Tubes, La Plus Précieuse des Marchandises, and Maya Donne-moi un titre — films that promise both charm and emotional depth.

Special screening event

On 28 November, catch a back-to-back screening of the original French series Dix pour cent (Call My Agent) and its Filipino adaptation, Call My Agent. It’s a rare chance to compare how the story unfolds in two cultures.

Historic French-Filipino collaboration

A landmark co-production agreement signed in Cannes earlier this year opens new doors for filmmakers from both countries. To mark this, the festival hosts a two-day co-production conference on 27 and 28 November at the SMX Convention Center, SM Aura. French and Filipino industry pros will discuss new projects and partnerships.

Extending the festival reach

If you miss the mall screenings, don’t worry. The festival continues at the Alliance Française de Manille from 1 to 6 December, with special events at the University of the Philippines Film Institute and De La Salle–College of Saint Benilde.