“Agnes Varda, Jean-Luc Godard, and Francois Truffaut, among many others, began their spectacular careers by making short films. It’s a tradition in France that continues and the Crandell is pleased to present a selection of seven new short films from a new generation of Gallic filmmakers that have been nominated for Oscars, won Cesars (the French equivalent of the Oscars), and have shown at major film festivals the world over. The 135 minute program celebrates life in all its comic and serious manifestations, and is best experienced with a glass of Burgundy, a slice of brie and a crusty baguette.” – Laurence Kardish, FilmColumbia co-artistic director and former senior film curator at MoMA
Genius Loci
dir. Adrien Mérigeau, 16m
This Oscar-nominated short centers on Reine, a young black woman and a loner. She sees within the urban chaos a mystical oneness that seems alive and guides her in her path to self-discovery and transformation.
By a Hair
dir. Lauriane Escaffre and Yvonnick Muller, 21m
In three days, Elodie must take the hair removal exam for her beautician diploma. Her father would prefer she work with him in his butcher’s shop, but loves her so much that when her friend doesn’t show up to be her model for the exam, he reluctantly takes her place… with hysterical results.
Haute Cuisine
dir. Merryl Roche, 24m
Since Marie has joined the team at multi-starred chef Bruno Mercier’s restaurant, all she thinks about is improving herself. But Thomas, the sous-chef who manages the kitchen on a day-to-day basis, is wary of this possible rival. During her shift, Marie cuts herself, letting a few drops of blood fall into and mix with her sauce, giving new meaning to the term “blood rivals”.
So What if the Goats Die?
dir. Sofia Alaoui, 23m
Abdellah, a young shepherd living in the Atlas Mountains, is forced to brave the snow in order to get food and save his goats. Once he arrives at the village, he faces a supernatural phenomenon.
And Then the Bear
dir. Agnès Patron, 14m
In this fanciful animation, houses will burn through the night. Men and women will tremble. Hordes of children will come together and howl as they dance alone on the ashes like wild bears. It only takes one shout to wake them all from their slumber!
Sukar
dir. Ilias El Faris, 10m
The beach in Casablanca is a playground for kids and the site of adolescent romantic encounters. But the police are always watching and no forbidden temptation is permitted. When a fight distracts their attention, two young lovers seize the opportunity to kiss…
Olla
dir. Ariane Labed, 27m
Olla replied to an advertisement on a dating website for women from Eastern Europe. She has just moved in with Pierre who lives with his elderly mother. But nothing goes as planned.
French (with English subtitles)
France