French Students Visit the Directors Guild of America

In October, Upper School French students had the exciting opportunity to attend the annual American French Film Festival (TAFFF).

Hosted at the Directors Guild of America, the Festival featured a range of French films, many making their North American or U.S. debuts. One of the highlights was the High School Screenings Program, which included The Count of Monte Cristo, a film adaptation of Alexandre Dumas' classic novel. It tells the story of a man wrongfully incarcerated in the infamous island prison Château d'If who escapes and seeks revenge on those who betrayed him. "I was so entranced in the movie that I could not move from my seat," shared Logan W. '25. This screening allowed students to engage with French cinema and classic literature, offering a deeper understanding of storytelling and film artistry.

In addition to the screening, students were given an in-depth glimpse into the filmmaking process by participating in a Q&A session with the directors Matthieu Delaporte and Alexandre de La Patellière, as well as the film's score writer, Jérôme Rebotier. The conversation provided valuable insights into the creative processes behind both the film and its music.

This year, Sierra Canyon student Cy J. '26 was selected to participate in the American Student Award contest, which TAFFF organizes in partnership with the American Association of Teachers of French. As part of the contest, Cy joined other students in viewing and voting for films featured in the Festival, with The Count of Monte Cristo emerging as the winner. The film was honored with a prestigious addition to its theatrical poster. Cy's involvement also earned him an invitation to the Festival's inaugural and closing ceremonies, where he walked the red carpet, spoke with the press, and received a disc personally signed by the film's score directors.

TAFFF spreads knowledge of French culture through entertainment, attracting both established and aspiring filmmakers to this prestigious event. Sierra Canyon French students are proud to have participated in this celebration of cinema and culture.

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