Hong Kong's longest-running film festival returns for its 55th edition from 11 November to 9 December 2026. Presented by Alliance Française de Hong Kong, the Hong Kong French Film Festival (HKFFF) will screen more than 50 films across eight venues, celebrating the vitality, heritage and continuing evolution of French cinema.
The 55th Hong Kong French Film Festival
The festival opens at Hong Kong City Hall with Antonin Baudry's two-part epic “De Gaulle”, while this year also marks the Hong Kong debut of Directors’ Fortnight Extended, bringing a selection from Cannes' Directors’ Fortnight to local audiences for the first time, with Artistic Director Julien Rejl also travelling to Hong Kong for the occasion. Tickets go on sale on 20 October via URBTIX and Broadway Circuit.
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The 55th Hong Kong French Film Festival
Still from “De Gaulle: Résistance”
Still from “The Phantom of the Opera”
Still from “Les Misérables”
Poster of “Asterix–The Kingdom of Nubia”
Still from “The Guardian Angels”
Still from “Contempt”
Still of “The Informer"
Artistic Director Julien Rejl
Still from “Viva Carmen”
Still from “Shana”
Still from “Too Many Beasts”
Still from “The Competition”
Still from “God’s Offices”
Clarence Tsui, curator of “On va au ciné, Let’s Go to the Movies!”, an educational screening series introducing students to French cinema and culture
Jean-Pierre Jeunet, acclaimed director and screenwriter
Still from “Violette”
Other highlights include a visit from acclaimed “Amélie” director Jean-Pierre Jeunet and the launch of “Let’s Go to the Movies!”, a new educational programme introducing French cinema and culture to students across Hong Kong.
Opening Night: “De Gaulle”
Still from “De Gaulle: Résistance”
The 55th HKFFF will open on 11 November at Hong Kong City Hall with “De Gaulle” (La Bataille de Gaulle), an epic two-part biographical drama directed by Antonin Baudry and starring Simon Abkarian as Charles de Gaulle. Part Two will follow on 13 November, continuing the story at Hong Kong City Hall.
Set in June 1940, as France collapses and signs the armistice, the film follows de Gaulle as he refuses to accept defeat and flees to London, convinced that the battle for France is neither over nor lost. Without an army, political backing or any certainty of success, he sets out to keep the idea of a free France alive. Gradually, resistance fighters, rebellious students and determined soldiers across England, France and Africa begin to rally to the cause, defying what history appeared to have already decided.
A New Generation of French Cinema
Beyond the Opening Night, this year’s General Selection will present 30-35 films, offering Hong Kong audiences a window into the latest stories, talent and creative voices emerging from French cinema.
Still from “The Phantom of the Opera”
Among this year’s highlights is “The Phantom of the Opera” (Le Fantôme de L'Opéra), directed by Alexandre Castagnetti and starring Deva Cassel, daughter of Monica Bellucci, as Anastasia, Romain Duris as James Figueras and Julien De Saint Jean as Ernest Dupré. Set in Paris' iconic Opéra Garnier, the film follows aspiring ballet dancer Anastasia as she becomes drawn into the legend of the Phantom, an impossible romance and a series of sinister events surrounding the theatre.
Still from “Les Misérables”
Also joining the General Selection is a new big-screen adaptation of “Les Misérables”, Victor Hugo’s timeless story that has captivated generations through literature, film and the stage. Directed by Fred Cavayé and starring Vincent Lindon, Camille Cottin, Tahar Rahim and Benjamin Lavernhe, the 2026 adaptation brings Jean Valjean's familiar story back to the screen for a new generation.
For families and younger filmgoers, “Asterix – The Kingdom of Nubia” (Astérix et le Royaume de Nubie) brings the beloved French comic book heroes Asterix and Obelix back to the screen in a new animated adventure. After a youth elixir accidentally turns the Gauls into children, the pair embark on a journey to the Kingdom of Nubia in search of an antidote.
Poster of “Asterix–The Kingdom of Nubia”
Looking Back: Retrospective Selection
While the General Selection looks to the latest in French filmmaking, this year’s Retrospective Selection turns to the rich history of French cinema, with 12-15 films spanning a special focus on Hong Kong and tributes to celebrated figures of French cinema.
Still from “The Guardian Angels”
French Frames in Hong Kong will revisit French films that have captured the city on screen, including Jean-Marie Poiré's 1995 comedy “The Guardian Angels” (Les Anges gardiens), starring Gérard Depardieu and Christian Clavier in a madcap adventure that begins in Hong Kong.
Still from “Contempt”
The retrospective will also pay tribute to Brigitte Bardot, who passed away last year at the age of 91, celebrating the screen legacy of one of French cinema’s most recognisable figures. Among the featured films is Jean-Luc Godard’s 1963 drama “Contempt” (Le Mépris), featuring Brigitte Bardot, Michel Piccoli, Jack Palance and Fritz Lang.
Still of “The Informer"
As part of this year’s retrospective tribute to Nathalie Baye, the festival presents Bob Swaim’s seminal 1982 crime thriller “The Informer” (La Balance). Baye’s powerhouse performance as Nicole, a tough yet vulnerable Belleville prostitute navigating a high-stakes police crackdown, earned her the César Award for Best Actress and remains one of the defining roles of her celebrated career.
Directors’ Fortnight Extended Makes Its Hong Kong Debut
Directors' Fortnight Extended (Quinzaine des Cinéastes) will make its Hong Kong premiere this year, adding a new dimension to the Festival and allowing local audiences to experience a selection from one of the most prominent French film institutions.
Artistic Director Julien Rejl
Created in 1969 as an independent sidebar of the Cannes Film Festival, Directors’ Fortnight showcases singular and daring forms of contemporary cinema through a non-competitive selection. Under Artistic Director Julien Rejl, its reach has expanded internationally through Directors’ Fortnight Extended, bringing its Cannes selections to audiences in cities including Tokyo, Los Angeles and New York. This year, Hong Kong joins the programme for the first time. The Hong Kong edition will feature 12 screenings across the Broadway Cinema network, presenting four films from the 2026 selection and two classic films.
Still from “Viva Carmen”
Among the selection is Sébastien Laudenbach’s animated film “Viva Carmen” (Carmen, l’oiseau rebelle). Set in Seville in 1840, the film follows Salvador, a young assistant to gifted knife grinder Antonio, who meets the captivating and fiercely independent Carmen. When Antonio’s ability to glimpse the future foretells a tragic fate for her, Salvador gathers an eclectic band of misfit kids, led by the spirited Belén, in an attempt to protect Carmen from her destiny.
Still from “Shana”
Also featured is Lila Pinell’s “Shana”, following its energetic title character as she navigates the trials and tribulations of everyday life with the support of her friends. After her grandmother passes away, Shana inherits a ring believed to protect her from bad luck — something she particularly needs as her toxic partner is released from prison and misfortunes begin to pile up.
Still from “Too Many Beasts”
“Too Many Beasts” (L’espèce explosive), directed by Sarah Arnold, is set in the French countryside, where wild boars ravaging crops spark an open conflict between farmers and members of a hunting club. When bankrupt farmer Brun is pushed to his limits, he shoots the club’s president and disappears. A year later, volatile police officer Fulda takes on the investigation as wild boars continue to proliferate across the region.
Julien Rejl will be in Hong Kong from 27 November to 1 December for the occasion, introducing the films and taking part in a masterclass, as well as meeting with young filmmakers and film school students to share insights into the vision and work behind Directors’ Fortnight.
“This programme reflects what we look for at Directors’ Fortnight: cinema that moves freely between genres. Two radically different languages of animation, a documentary edited with the narrative precision of fiction, a rural crime comedy filled with echoes of great American cinema…” Rejl shares. “Together, these films speak to the energy of contemporary French cinema and its desire to challenge established forms, cross boundaries and invent new cinematic languages. Presented alongside ‘Jeanne Dielman’, they also remind us that the Fortnight has always been a place for discovery, risk and strong cinematic voices. I’m very happy to bring these films to Hong Kong and to meet the audience there.”
“Let’s Go to the Movies!” – Bringing French Cinema to the Next Generation
HKFFF’s commitment to sharing French cinema with new audiences takes another step forward this year with “On va au ciné, Let’s Go to the Movies!”, an educational screening series introducing students to French cinema and culture.
Curated by Hong Kong film critic, curator and programmer Clarence Tsui, the programme will feature four films selected for students across different stages of education, from primary and secondary school to university. Taking place from 11 to 14 November at Hong Kong City Hall Theatre and Alliance Française de Hong Kong (Jordan Centre), the free screenings encourage curiosity and discussion.
Drawing on his experience in film criticism, programming and education, Tsui has curated the selection with young audiences in mind, considering how each film can resonate with students at different ages and provide a starting point for conversations beyond the screen.
Still from “The Competition”
Highlights include Claire Simon's documentary “The Competition” (Le Concours), which follows aspiring filmmakers through the demanding admissions process at prestigious French film school La Fémis, exploring their ambitions, anxieties and encounters with the jury.
Still from “God’s Offices”
For university students, Simon's “God’s Offices” (Les bureaux de Dieu), starring Nathalie Baye, offers an intimate look inside a family planning centre, following women and counsellors as they navigate contraception, pregnancy and sexual freedom.
Clarence Tsui, curator of “On va au ciné, Let’s Go to the Movies!”, an educational screening series introducing students to French cinema and culture.
Clarence Tsui, curator of “On va au ciné, Let’s Go to the Movies!”, an educational screening series introducing students to French cinema and culture
“Having long admired the way films are used to introduce students in France to ideas about the use of language, the value of art, the diversity of cultures and the importance of historical remembrance, I am very honoured to have the opportunity to work with my friends at the Hong Kong French Film Festival for ‘On va au ciné – Let’s Go to the Movies.’ Through screenings, talks and activities designed for students of all ages and their teachers, we hope to help heighten the awareness among the younger population about the significance of cinema as food for thought and a catalyst for change – all through the power of amazing French films, of course!”, says Clarence Tsui.
“Amélie” Director Jean-Pierre Jeunet Comes to Hong Kong
Acclaimed director and screenwriter Jean-Pierre Jeunet, best known for directing the classic “Amélie”, will attend this year's Festival to present a preview of his upcoming film “Violette”, starring Leïla Bekhti, Matthias Schoenaerts and Sergio Castellitto, ahead of its December 2026 release in France. He will be in Hong Kong from 16 to 19 November to meet local cinephiles, lead masterclasses, and host post-screening Q&As.
Jean-Pierre Jeunet, acclaimed director and screenwriter
Set in a small Burgundy town, “Violette” (Violette) follows a cemetery caretaker who offers solace to grieving visitors. The arrival of a police officer bringing his mother's ashes unravels her past, bringing to light painful memories and healing truths.
Still from “Violette”
"After 54 editions, what moves us most is that Hong Kong audiences keep coming back, and that a new generation is now discovering French cinema with them. This year, with Directors' Fortnight coming to Hong Kong for the first time and inviting the youth into the cinema with 'Let's Go to the Movies!', we are opening new doors while honouring the festival's history. None of this would be possible without the long-standing support of the French Consulate, LCSD, Edko Circuit and our loyal partners," says Julia Liotard-Vogt, Executive Director of Alliance Française de Hong Kong.
Hong Kong French Film Festival Key Dates
All dates, times and programme details are correct at the time of distribution and may be subject to change.
Date(s) Key Event & Details
20 October (Tues) Tickets On Sale
HKFFF 2026 tickets go on sale via URBTIX and Broadway Circuit
11 November (Wed) Opening Night – “De Gaulle: Résistance”
7:45-11:00pm | Theatre, Hong Kong City Hall
13 November (Fri) “De Gaulle: Liberté”
Theatre, Hong Kong City Hall
18 November (Wed) Opening Film – “Violette”
PREMIERE ELEMENTS
16-19 November (Mon-Thurs) Jean-Pierre Jeunet in Hong Kong
The acclaimed director of “Amélie” will visit HKFFF to present his latest film, “Violette”, and take part in masterclasses and post-screening Q&As.
27 November - 1 December (Fri-Tues) Julien Rejl in Hong Kong
Directors’ Fortnight Artistic Director will introduce films and take part in a masterclass and student meetings.
Festival Details
Festival Period: 11 November to 9 December, 2026
HKFFF Website: www.hkfrenchfilmfestival.com
Ticketing:
• Broadway Circuit: https://www.cinema.com.hk/en/movie/special
• Hong Kong City Hall: https://www.urbtix.hk/
Venues: Hong Kong City Hall, Broadway Cinematheque, MOViE MOViE PACIFIC PLACE, PALACE ifc, PREMIERE Elements, Alliance Française Hong Kong Jordan Centre, Jockey Club Creative Arts Centre (JCCAC), Hong Kong Film Archive
Private Screenings: For companies, organisations and private groups looking for a more exclusive Festival experience, private screenings of selected films will also be available throughout HKFFF 2026.
