FrancoFilm Festival 2025 Opens With A Dazzling Celebration
The red carpet rolled out, the spotlights beamed, and the spirit of cinema lit up Dana Mall as the FrancoFilm Festival – Bahrain 2025 made its grand entrance on Sunday night at EPIX Cinemas. Now in its third edition, this cultural celebration brought together filmmakers, diplomats, cinema lovers, and storytellers from across continents – all united by a common language: cinema en français.
Under the patronage of H.E. Éric Giraud-Telme, the French Ambassador to Bahrain, the event wasn't just a film festival – it was a symphony of cultures, hosted in collaboration with 12 Francophone embassies including Armenia, Belgium, Cameroon, Canada, Côte d'Ivoire, Cyprus, Egypt, Lebanon, Morocco, Switzerland, Tunisia, and Vietnam.
'This is more than just a showcase of films – it's a celebration of the creative soul of Francophone nations,' said Ambassador Giraud-Telme, speaking to the Daily Tribune. 'It's about invention, diversity, and shared stories that connect us all.'
A special premiere screening of the epic 'Le Comte de Monte-Cristo', a 2024 adaptation by Alexandre de La Patellière and Matthieu Delaporte, based on Alexandre Dumas' legendary tale of revenge and redemption. For the first time ever, Bahraini audiences were treated to this cinematic gem on the big screen.
But the night wasn't only about the movies – it was also about building bridges through film. Ambassador Giraud-Telme noted, 'France and Bahrain are working hand-in-hand in the cinema industry. Just a few months ago, we co-launched the 48-Hour Film Challenge during the Bahrain Film Festival – a symbol of our strong and growing partnership.'
Adding her voice to the evening, Martine S. Kindt, Consul of Belgium in Manama, reflected on the vibrant interest in Francophone storytelling: 'We have so many types of filmmakers across our countries, but what stands out here is the genuine curiosity and appreciation the Bahraini people have for French culture and cinematic diversity.'
With its blend of classic storytelling and fresh global perspectives, the FrancoFilm Festival is more than just a film screening – it's a cultural rendezvous, an invitation to see the world through different lenses, and a celebration of connection through the art of film.The festival will continue until 22-May with more screenings and events open to the public.
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