The 31st edition of Rendez-Vous with French Cinema has crowned its standout films, spotlighting both rising talent and audience favorites at Film at Lincoln Center. Presented in partnership with Unifrance, the annual New York festival continues to serve as a key gateway for French films reaching North American audiences.
This year, filmmaker Leyla Bouzid took home the Best Emerging Filmmaker Award for In a Whisper, while acclaimed director Cédric Klapisch earned the Audience Award for Colors of Time. Both films reflect the evolving voice and global reach of contemporary French cinema.
In a Whisper centers on Lilia, played by Eya Bouteraa, a woman returning to Tunisia for a family funeral who uncovers unexpected truths about her uncle—and herself. The film, which premiered at the Berlin International Film Festival, was praised by the student jury for its striking cinematography and emotional depth, blending personal storytelling with visual elegance. The Best Emerging Filmmaker Award is designed to elevate new voices and highlight fresh perspectives shaping France’s cultural identity.
Meanwhile, Colors of Time captured the hearts of festivalgoers, securing the Audience Award after its earlier debut at the Cannes Film Festival. Set between Normandy and Paris, the film follows four distant cousins reconnecting through a shared family history, retracing the journey of a 19th-century ancestor. Klapisch, known for his ensemble-driven narratives, once again explores themes of legacy, identity, and generational ties.
Beyond the awards, this year’s festival underscored its growing impact. Ticket sales jumped 23 percent over 2025, with more than 10,500 tickets issued. Notably, the event emphasized accessibility and education, welcoming nearly 900 students to free screenings and hosting a series of public talks. Of the 22 feature films showcased, nearly half were directed by women, and several filmmakers made their festival debut—marking a continued commitment to diversity and discovery.
A six-member student jury, composed of New York City college filmmakers from institutions including New York University Tisch School of the Arts and Columbia University, played a central role in selecting the emerging filmmaker winner, reinforcing the festival’s mission to cultivate the next generation of industry voices.
As Rendez-Vous with French Cinema evolves, it remains a vital platform—connecting international filmmakers, young creatives, and passionate audiences through stories that resonate far beyond the screen.