In this special episode of You are so French!, I sit down with Frédéric Alliod, the CEO of the Alliance Française French Film Festival, to explore the cultural impact of French cinema in Australia. Recorded just before the start of the 36th edition of the festival, Frédéric shares insights into how it has grown to become the largest French film event outside France. Get a behind-the-scenes look at the selection process and discover some exciting highlights from the upcoming 2025 edition. Frédéric explains why this annual event is so important for both the local French community and Australian Francophiles, showing how cinema creates connections and promotes cultural exchange. You’ll also hear about Frédéric’s personal journey, his passion for French cinema, and the unique challenges and joys of bringing it to an Australian audience. It’s a conversation about dreams, cultural synergy, and the vibrant life of the French in Australia. Bonne écoute! We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia. We pay our respects to Elders past and present. Frédéric’s recommendations for the 2025 edition: Before What Comes After The Story of Souleymane My Everything No Chains No Masters The Deluge Niki Episode Guide: 03:20 – Frédéric’s journey as an audiovisual expert with a global career08:50 – The biggest French film festival outside France12:42 – The unique Australian landscape that makes it a success18:12 – The film selection process23:42 – Films that spark conversation31:38 – The French, Francophile, and movie-loving audience – a festival that matters to people for different reasons34:05 – Cinema as a soft power, inspiring your love for France41:05 – Future plans for the festival