Director Ladj Ly participated in ‘Rendez-vous with French Cinema’ festival in New York to present his latest film ‘Les Indesirables‘. Watch his interview at this major event !
The 2024 edition of Rendez-Vous with French Cinema, a crucial event for promoting French cinema beyond the Atlantic, dazzled audiences from February 29th to March 10th at New York’s iconic Lincoln Center. Showcasing over 40 films and hosting esteemed personalities like director Ladj Ly presenting his latest work, ‘Les Indésirables‘, the festival was a testament to the cultural exchange between France and the United States. Let’s take a closer look at some key highlights as illuminated by RFI and Awards Radar.
‘Les Indésirables‘, also known as ‘Batiment 5’, the sequel to ‘Les Misérables’, delves into the housing crisis in a Parisian suburb, highlighting tensions between an activist and an ambitious mayor. This narrative resonated deeply with audiences, sparking conversations on societal issues mirrored on both sides of the Atlantic.
With discussions, workshops, and vibrant exchanges with filmmakers, Rendez-Vous with French Cinema fostered a deeper understanding of French and Francophone cinema. Ladj Ly’s engagement with the audience underscored the importance of cinema as a platform for social dialogue and change.
For the first time, it allows the American audience to see productions from directors representing diversity.These films resonate with people here because the problems discussed are also present in the United States.
For Ladj Ly, whose work earned him an Oscar nomination in 2020, the festival was more than a showcase—it was an opportunity to engage in substantive discussions on pressing societal matters. Audience members, whether seasoned cinephiles or newcomers, appreciated the raw and authentic perspectives presented by the director. Watch his Q&A session below, in which he also shares some of the VFX work done on the film:
At The Yard, we are honored to have contributed visual effects to ‘Les Indésirables‘, a film that captures the essence of contemporary societal challenges. Join us as we continue to support impactful storytelling in the world of cinema.