Cinéma du Réel, the esteemed international documentary film festival held annually in Paris, France, has long been celebrated for its commitment to showcasing non-mainstream, intellectually, and artistically stimulating documentaries. The competition of the festival’s 2025 edition, running from March 21 to 30, continues this tradition by presenting a diverse program that blurs the lines between feature-length films and short shorts, treating each with equal reverence and attention. This egalitarian approach highlights the festival’s dedication to exploring the myriad forms and expressions within non-fiction cinema, providing a platform for both emerging and established filmmakers to present their unique visions.
Tag Archives: UK
Rotterdam 2024 Review: “How to Have Sex”
IFFR Throughout history, a great number of stories have been told through the male gaze. Even when female characters are centered, they’re often shaped by the desires of male artists. As a result, these works predominantly cater to male audiences. Yet, as the contemporary sociopolitical climate increasingly amplifies women’s voices, the cinematic landscape adjusts accordingly.Continue reading “Rotterdam 2024 Review: “How to Have Sex””
Leiden 2023 Review: “Femme”
Based on their 2021 Bafta-nominated short of the same name, Sam H. Freeman and Ng Choon Ping’s debut feature, “Femme”, is a thrilling and thought-provoking film that delves deep into the themes of trauma, identity, and retribution through the eyes of a queer character who refuses to be silenced or erased, even after having faced immense tragedy.
Locarno 2023 Review: “Essential Truths of the Lake”
Essential Truths of the Lake, the latest work from acclaimed Philippine director Lav Diaz, arrives at the Locarno Film Festival as a fascinating prequel to last year’s When the Waves Are Gone. It is a film of contradiction, complexity, and deep resonance, weaving political commentary, existential pondering, and a grounded police procedural into a textured and innovative work.
Rotterdam 2023 Review: ´Blue Jean´
With Blue Jean, director Georgia Oakley presents an authentic portrayal of a lesbian community in Thatcher´s Britain.
Rotterdam 2023 Review: ´A House in Jerusalem´
A House in Jerusalem sheds light on the experiences of thousands of people who have had to flee their homes during and after the invasion of Palestine.
Locarno 2021 ‘Zeros and Ones’ Review: Reflective Pandemic Thriller
Abel Ferrara delivers a relevant COVID-era thriller, with Ethan Hawke showing impressive versatility in a contrasting dual role.
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