At the Red Sea Film Festival, Thierry Frémaux, the esteemed director of the Cannes Film Festival, offered a masterclass in cinematic philosophy, festival curation, and the evolving role of film in the global cultural landscape. Speaking with Kaleem Aftab, the International Programming Director of the Red Sea Film Festival, Frémaux delved into topics ranging from his journey into cinema to the responsibilities of a film festival in representing the art form’s diversity. This conversation revealed his deep respect for the medium and his commitment to preserving its theatrical roots while embracing its future.
What Makes a Good Film?
Frémaux began by addressing the perennial question: “What makes a good film?” For him, the answer lies not solely in personal taste but in a film’s capacity to reflect the spirit of cinema. A film selected for Cannes does not necessarily align with his preferences, but it must embody something essential about the state of cinema. “Cannes,” he explained, “must be a photograph of what cinema is today.” This philosophy ensures that the festival remains a platform for artistic diversity, showcasing films that provoke, challenge, and innovate, regardless of genre or commercial appeal.
A Lifelong Dedication to Cinema
Frémaux’s passion for cinema began in his childhood, nurtured by a father who was a cinephile and a member of a ciné-club. In France, cinema was deeply intertwined with culture and society, influencing political movements and intellectual life. His journey into the film world was unconventional; he volunteered for eight years before earning a paid position. Through this apprenticeship, he learned the intricacies of festival organization, from curation to audience engagement. Even as the director of Cannes, he remains grounded, describing his role as a continuation of his passion rather than a career.
The Role of Festivals: Representing Cinema’s Identity
Frémaux emphasized the unique role of Cannes as a global festival. While it takes place in France, Cannes is not a French film festival but a world cinema festival. Its identity is deeply rooted in its post-World War II origins as a bridge between Europe and Hollywood. Over time, it has expanded to embrace a more universal perspective, reflecting diverse cinematic voices from around the globe. Festivals, he argued, must create spaces where different cultural and artistic identities can intersect, fostering a global dialogue.
The Theater as Sacred Space
A recurring theme in Frémaux’s discussion was the irreplaceable value of the theatrical experience. He lamented the pandemic-induced closures of cinemas and the rise of streaming platforms, which, while convenient, cannot replicate the communal and transformative experience of watching a film in a theater. “Two hours before watching a film and two hours after, you are not the same person,” he remarked, illustrating the profound impact of cinema as an art form.
Is Cinema Dying?
Frémaux directly addressed the often-asked question about cinema’s supposed decline. He acknowledged the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and the rise of streaming platforms, which momentarily disrupted the industry. However, he expressed a belief in cinema’s resilience and its ability to reinvent itself. “Cinema is not dying,” he stated emphatically. Instead, he argued, the challenges faced by the industry—such as declining theatrical attendance in certain regions—are part of its evolution, not its demise. He highlighted the renewed interest in theaters post-pandemic and the continued global appetite for films as proof of cinema’s vitality.
While cinema may no longer dominate the cultural sphere as it did in the early 20th century, Frémaux insisted that its capacity to unite audiences and provoke profound emotional responses remains unmatched. He also pointed to cinema’s foundational influence on modern visual storytelling, including its impact on television and streaming series, as evidence of its enduring relevance.
Inclusion of Genre Films
Frémaux also addressed the perception of genre films as lesser art. Citing The Substance, a body-horror film included in Cannes’ competition, he argued that genre should never define a film’s value. What matters is the artistry and intention behind the work. Cannes, he said, aims to be an “open festival,” celebrating cinema in all its forms. This inclusivity extends to films that might traditionally be overlooked, highlighting their artistic merit and cultural relevance.
Advice for Emerging Festivals and Filmmakers
Acknowledging the burgeoning influence of the Red Sea Film Festival, Frémaux offered insights for its growth. He praised its role in championing Arab and African cinema, urging it to maintain high technical and artistic standards while fostering a unique identity. For young filmmakers, particularly those in underappreciated genres like horror, he encouraged perseverance and excellence, reminding them that the quality of their work is the ultimate determinant of success.
The Future of Cinema
Looking ahead, Frémaux reflected on the 130th anniversary of cinema, calling attention to the Lumière brothers not just as inventors but as pioneers of the collective cinematic experience. He expressed optimism about cinema’s future, noting its resilience in the face of challenges. For Frémaux, cinema’s ability to transform individuals and create shared experiences ensures its relevance for generations to come.
Cinema as a Global Dialogue
Frémaux’s vision for cinema extends beyond the walls of Cannes. He views festivals as platforms for global dialogue, each contributing a unique perspective. The Red Sea Film Festival, with its focus on Arab and African cinema, exemplifies this mission. Frémaux underscored the importance of such initiatives, which enrich the cinematic landscape and challenge Eurocentric narratives.
Conclusion: Preserving the Soul of Cinema
Thierry Frémaux’s insights illuminate the delicate balance required to navigate cinema’s evolving landscape. From honoring its theatrical traditions to embracing new voices and formats, he champions a vision of cinema as both an art and an industry, deeply rooted in history yet open to innovation. His reflections serve as a reminder that cinema, at its best, transcends boundaries, uniting people through shared stories and collective experiences. “If you love cinema, cinema will love you,” he concluded. This enduring relationship between the art form and its audience, he believes, is what will ensure cinema’s survival and continued relevance.
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