Filmmaker Cedric Klapisch received this year’s French Cinema Award during a heartfelt ceremony at the Ministry of Culture in Paris on January 15. Surrounded by his long-time collaborators, including screenwriter Santiago Amigorena and actor Zinedine Soualem, Klapisch was recognized for his contributions to cinema that transcend national boundaries.
The French Cinema Award, established by Unifrance in 2016, honors individuals whose work has significantly promoted French cinema on the global stage. Notable past recipients include acclaimed actresses Isabelle Huppert, Juliette Binoche, and Virginie Efira, as well as renowned directors like Olivier Assayas and Rebecca Zlotowski. Klapisch’s films are characterized by their themes of movement and cultural exchange, exemplified by the beloved “Spanish Apartment” series, which spans three films and an Amazon series, chronicling an extended family across continents.
Upon accepting the award, Klapisch highlighted the role of travel in his creative process. He reflected on how a promotional tour for his 2002 film “Pot Luck” — the first in the series — inspired its sequel, “Russian Dolls.” He stated, “Some journeys give birth to new films. Travel is a fundamental part of my cinema. That’s the reason I made ‘Pot Luck’ — and why I’m standing here today.”
Klapisch, who grew up in Paris, credits his formative years at NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts as a significant influence on his career. He expressed concern over whether young French filmmakers still feel drawn to the United States, noting, “It’s less obvious now.” He also observed a shift in the industry, where major American talents are increasingly venturing to France, a trend he described as a reversal of the previous flow of movement.
During his speech, Klapisch addressed the ongoing discussions surrounding box office performance and international distribution, particularly in the context of French cinema. He emphasized the importance of the CNC (Centre National du Cinéma et de l’image animée) in supporting film creation in France. “I will always defend the CNC. It must continue to exist. It supports cinematic creation. I believe deeply in that model,” he stated.
The ceremony was attended by notable figures in the French film industry, including Gaëtan Bruel, president of the CNC, and Rachida Dati, the French Culture Minister. Both joined Gilles Pélisson, president of Unifrance, and executive director Daniela Elstner in celebrating Klapisch’s achievements during this year’s Unifrance Rendez-Vous in Paris.
Through his work, Cedric Klapisch continues to create films that resonate with audiences worldwide, reinforcing the significance of French cinema in the global landscape. His recognition with the French Cinema Award is a testament to his impact and ongoing dedication to storytelling that bridges cultures and experiences.
