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Sophie Dupuis, Anaïs Barbeau-Lavalette, Philippe Falardeau, and Lennikim each illustrate, in their own way, the importance of film festivals like Cinemania for promoting the Francophonie. They highlight the role of these events as cultural showcases, meeting points between artists and audiences, and spaces for international discovery. All of them share a common passion for Francophone cinema, its reach, and its cultural influence. Discover their perspectives in these various videos:

Philippe Falardeau emphasizes the importance of discovering other people's films through a festival like Cinémania. For him, this event plays a central role by providing a platform that not only allows for the appreciation of the diversity of Francophone cinematic works but also encourages exchanges between festival-goers and film professionals. Falardeau had the honor of co-chairing the Cinémania jury alongside Emmanuelle Béart, an experience that deepened his connection to this festival.

Cinémania gives him the opportunity to revisit films, discuss them with colleagues, and offer constructive feedback and criticism, all while fostering an environment of sharing. He highlights how this festival serves as a unique meeting place between creators and audiences. Furthermore, Falardeau stresses the importance of the Francophonie in the world, highlighting how such events contribute to the recognition of diverse Francophone cultures on an international scale.

Anaïs Barbeau-Lavalette highlights the importance of celebrating the Francophonie through cinema. For her, the French language is not only a medium of artistic expression but also defines the cultural identity of those who share it. It is out of love for this language that she expresses her desire to work in French cinema, which she believes fully embodies the Francophonie.

She also points out the fragility of festivals, particularly in terms of financial challenges, and voices her concern about this situation. Despite these difficulties, Barbeau-Lavalette strongly advocates for the importance of continuing to watch films in theaters. For her, it is an act of support for cinematic creation and a way to preserve the vitality of Francophone cinema. These festivals, although endangered, remain essential pillars for promoting and sustaining this vibrant culture.

Sophie Dupuis emphasizes the crucial importance of film festivals in the global cinematic landscape. According to her, these events serve as essential showcases for highlighting the best in cinema, while also acting as reference points for the audience. Festivals offer an invitation to discover new works while fostering intercultural dialogue that enriches the perception of cinema beyond national borders.

At the last edition (the 29th) of the festival, Sophie Dupuis presented her film SOLO. For her, these festivals are an opportunity to reach a wider and more diverse audience, while cultivating an atmosphere of shared passion for Francophone cinema. Dupuis stresses the importance of welcoming this audience while highlighting the valuable contribution of festivals in promoting and celebrating cinema from different cultures. These events connect works to viewers who might otherwise never have discovered them.

Lennikim highlights the importance of discovering cinema from elsewhere and emphasizes that the experience of a festival like Cinémania is unique. He talks about how the actors present feel the pressure and significance of the audience's first reactions. For him, these direct interactions are crucial, as they allow filmmakers to gauge the emotional impact of their works.

He also stresses the importance of the Francophonie, explaining that from a young age, he grew up watching figures like Marc Labrèche and Anne Dorval on television, which shaped his relationship with the French language and Francophone culture. During the 29th edition of Cinémania, he found a deep personal resonance with the films presented, feeling particularly connected to them. This strong connection with the works and the festival underscores Cinémania's relevance as a cultural identification space for those who share a love for Francophone cinema.