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San Diego French Film Festival 2025: A Celebration of Love, Diversity, and Cultural Connections The San Diego French Film Festival (SDFFF), presented by the Alliance Française San Diego, proudly returns for its fifth edition from May 4-7, 2025, at THE LOT La Jolla. This year’s theme, “Love in All Its Forms,” highlights the many facets of human connection—friendship, passion, solidarity, and resilience—through a compelling selection of French and francophone films. Festival Highlights Opening Night Gala – May 4 The festival launches with a glamorous red-carpet event and gala reception, featuring the screening of *En Fanfare* (*The Marching Band*, 2024). Directed by Emmanuel Courcol, this critically acclaimed drama tells the moving story of two estranged brothers brought together by music and an unexpected family discovery. The film, which received seven César Award nominations, stars Benjamin Lavernhe and Pierre Lottin. Following the screening, guests will enjoy gourmet hors d'oeuvres, champagne, live entertainment, and a dance party with DJ GreGTraXx. Gala attendees will also have the chance to win a luxury getaway at Club Med, courtesy of TravelBootik. Night with the Stars – May 5 A special highlight of this year’s festival is the screening of Neuilly-Poissy (2024, France), an engaging and humorous take on religious tolerance, social integration, and diversity. The film follows a wealthy businessman who is forced to rebuild his life in unexpected circumstances, using his wit to navigate a world far removed from his privileged past. Following the screening, attendees will have the unique opportunity to join a panel discussion with renowned French actor Max Boublil and director Gregory Boutboul, offering insights into the film’s themes and creative process. May 6 Screenings – Powerful Stories from Around the World Festivalgoers will have the choice between two compelling films: - Moto Taxi (*Bendskins*, 2021, Cameroon), directed by Narcisse Wandji, provides a raw and immersive look at urban life through the perspectives of three motorcycle taxi drivers in Cameroon. - Quelques Jours Pas Plus (*Just a Couple of Days*, 2024, France), directed by Julie Navarro, is a sharp and touching comedy-drama starring Camille Cottin and Benjamin Biolay. The film explores unexpected connections and personal transformation through the story of a journalist who reluctantly takes in a young Afghan refugee. Closing Night – May 7 The festival concludes with RU (2023, Canada), a poignant adaptation of Kim Thuy’s acclaimed novel. Directed by Charles-Olivier Michaud, the film follows a young Vietnamese girl and her family as they flee war-torn Vietnam and rebuild their lives in Quebec. With multiple award nominations, "RU" is a deeply moving story of exile, adaptation, and resilience. Beyond Film: Art, Community, and Education In addition to film screenings, SDFFF will feature two art exhibitions: - “Coeur D’Afghane, Amour À La Française” by Manaz Raiszadeh, a Franco-Afghan artist exploring themes of migration and love. - A showcase of student artworks from the Alliance Française of San Diego. The festival also includes a special educational screening on March 21, featuring *L’Océan Vu Du Coeur* (2023, Canada), a documentary about ocean conservation, presented to San Diego school students with a Q&A session. Visit: https://www.afsandiego.org/san-diego-french-film-festival-2025 Alliance Francais San Diego on Instagram and Facebook

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Batter up! The East Village Association is gearing up to celebrate the start of baseball season at the 13th Annual East Village Block Party on Opening Weekend on Saturday, March 29 from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Taking place on J Street from 6th to 10th Avenues in front of Petco Park, the entire community is invited to come together to celebrate the Padres and everything East Village has to offer. The free family-friendly event promises a day filled with local small businesses, live music and entertainment, a classic car show, tasty bites, local retail vendors, photo opportunities and a variety of other fun family-friendly activities. Immerse yourself in the Padres team spirit as the streets outside of Petco Park come to life. Attendees are encouraged to stroll through the streets and savor an exciting lineup of tasty bites and sips from local food and beverage vendors while soaking up the lively atmosphere. Mark your calendars for Saturday, March 29, and come celebrate the community and the return of baseball season!