Media Manipulations:
Three Centuries of Sensationalism & Scandal in New French Film
This year's Williams College French Film Festival features recent films from France that focus on sensationalism and scandal in the media. From nineteenth-century Parisian journalists in Xavier Giannoli's Lost Illusions (2021), to twentieth-century criminality in François Ozon's The Crime is Mine (2023), to twentieth-first-century news media in Bruno Dumont's France (2021), these films examine the scandalous, criminal, and comical effects of charlatan reporters, tabloid sensationalism, social media, and so-called fake news.
This festival is made possible with the generous support of the Williams Class of 1960 Scholars Program, the Williams Department of Romance Languages, and the Center for Global Languages, Literatures, and Cultures. All films are in French with English subtitles, and are free and open to the public. Images Cinema is located at 50 Spring Street in Williamstown, MA. For more on these films and screenings, see: Images Cinema the French Department and Center for Global Languages, Literatures, and Cultures.
FILM PREVIEWS
Lost Illusions ~ February 13th
Explore 1820s France in "Lost Illusions," a captivating drama by director Xavier Giannoli. The film follows the charismatic and ambitious 20-year-old poet, Lucien de Rubempré, as he leaves his provincial home to conquer the literary world of Paris. However, his ideals clash with the harsh realities of the city and Lucien is tempted to sacrifice his artistic integrity.
The Crime Is Mine ~ February 20th
In François Ozon's "The Crime Is Mine," young actress Madeleine Verdier faces accusations of murdering a famous producer. Following her acquittal, she steps into a dazzling life of fame and success. Yet, as the truth slowly unravels, the very foundation of her glamorous existence is shaken, adding a riveting twist to this compelling tale.
France ~ February 27th
"France," Bruno Dumont's 2021 comedy-drama, skillfully depicts the downfall of a renowned TV journalist amid a mix of drama and comedy. Exploring the intersection of her private and public challenges, the film offers a snapshot of contemporary France, ignited by a chance collision with a deliveryman on a bustling Parisian street.