ÉCU-The European Independent Film Festival

As the month of October starts in Paris and the hot heat of our long Indian summer continues, it’s strange to think that winter must be on its way. To make the most of this last flash of hot weather, ÉCU has found some of the best things to do in Paris this month, including some things based outdoors for the sunny days, but also some things indoors for the cold front which will probably hit us by the end of the month…

“Le festival Pariscience” is taking place from 7th – 12th October, in Jardin des Plantes. This year is the 6th edition of the festival, which shows films and holds talks to examine the theme of biodiversity from different angles. The location in the Muséum national d’Histoire naturelle, which provides the perfect chance to have a look round this world-famous museum, take in a film afterwards, and lounge in the park in the glorious sunshine we’re enjoying at the moment! http://www.pariscience.fr/fr/festival/

You may have spotted on our website that our partners G-Technology have announced the winners of their “Driven Creativity Competition”, and they will be showcased here in Paris; as well as in Berlin and London. The competition was hard-fought, and the winners are truly outstanding. Don’t miss this great multimedia exhibition, which includes film, photography and music at 0fr gallery from 12th – 16th October. http://www.g-technology.eu/competition/

If you’re looking for some mindless entertainment though, this month is perfect for you too. The French icon Tintin is finally making his big screen Blockbuster debut. Le Grand Rex’s calendar reveals that “Aventures de Tintin : le secret de la licorne 3D” will have its world premiere on 22nd October at 8.30pm, and that Steven Spielberg will be here to present the film. Even if your invitation to the premiere got lost in the post, you can still catch it at most cinemas by the end of the month. http://www.us.movie.tintin.com/

At the other end of the spectrum, but equally unmissable, is the screening of “Das Kind” at “Mémorial de la Shoah”. On 23rd October , Yonathan Levy, an ÉCU alumni will be screening his documentary and discussing it afterwards with Irma Mico, the star of the film and an eye-witness of the war. With a great venue, a riveting film and an eye-witness account, this promises to be a moving and exceptional afternoon. www.memorialdelashoah.fr

The end of the month is marker by the Toussaint school holiday here, and for parents looking for something to amuse their children and introduce them to cinema, we have found the perfect opportunity. “Mon 1er Festival » takes place from 26th October – 1st November and is dedicated to children over the age of 2, aiming to inspire and teach the next generation of cinema-lovers in an interesting and fun way. Viewings are only €4 each, and the programme is varied and suitable for a wide range of ages, so why not give it a go? http://www.monpremierfestival.org/
Until next month!