The 18th France Cinema Festival in Florence was a resounding success this year, with films playing to full houses from November 4-9
thanks to a "particularly lively and eclectic selection" and a much-admired retrospective of French film noirs that will travel to five other Italian cities.
The Festival jury, presided by par Francesca Comencini, awarded its Grand Prix to Lucas Belvaux's trilogy "Un couple épatant," "Cavale" and "Après la vie." "This is the first time in my life that I've ever been awarded a prize" explained the clearly moved Franco-Belgian director.
The Special Jury Prize was awarded to "Quand tu descendras du ciel", debut feature by Eric Guirado, which also picked up the Student Jury Grand Prix.
Sylvie Testud, star of "Stupeur et tremblements" by Alain Corneau was voted Best Actress ("A mock-heroic character played with extraordinary proficiency").
Finally, Alain Corneau received the 2003 Sergio Leone Prize for his contribution to the movie industry.
In November 2004, the Festival will honor the work of François Truffaut.
