The El Gouna Film Festival announces a tribute to the legendary actress and singer, Jane Birkin (December 1946-July 2023), during her next edition which will take place from October 13 to 20, 2023. The Festival’s decision to celebrate her illustrious career follows her recent death in France at the age of 76. This tribute is part of the festival’s philosophy to celebrate the emblematic talents of the past and the present.
By discussing the importance of paying tribute to the distinguished figures of cinema during a festival, Marianne Khoury, the artistic director of the festival, stressed: “ In the constantly evolving landscape of cinema, it is essential to pay tribute to the pioneers who have shaped the industry as it is today. Jane Birkin was not only an emblematic actress and singer, but also a symbol of freedom and artistic innovation. His work transcended borders and generations, making a timeless figure in the art world. It is a privilege for us to celebrate his inheritance and to share part of his remarkable journey with our audience at the El Gouna film festival.“”
Beyond his cinematographic achievements, Birkin’s contribution to music was also extraordinary. His collaboration with the legendary Serge Gainsbourg gave birth to timeless classics like ” I love you … me either“, A song that challenged social standards and has become a hymn to liberation. His distinctive voice and his poetic words inspired countless musicians and listeners, solidifying his place in the history of music.
The El Gouna’s Film Festival is honored to present a selection of films that highlight the life and career of Jane Birkin. Programming includes:
Boxes
Jane Birkin | France | 2007 | French, English | 95 min.
On the picturesque Breton coast, Anna, aged 45 to 50, unpacks her boxes in a large old house, apparently alone. However, as the boxes reveal their content, a whirlwind of ex-husbands, lovers, children, parents, and even ghosts emerges. Director Jane Birkin invites us on a captivating journey of memories and emotions.
Jane B. For Agnès V.
Agnès Varda | France | 1988 | French | 99 min.
The moving portrait of Agnès Varda by Jane Birkin takes spectators on a multiple faceted journey through various fictions and personas. Jane Birkin, known as Jane B., Endosses roles such as Jane… Arc, Calamity Jane, Jane de Tarzan and Jane de Gainsbourg. This captivating exploration of identity and creativity highlights Birkin’s art.
Kung-fu Master! (Little love)
Agnès Varda | France | 1988 | French, English | 80 min.
Shot simultaneously with “Jane B. for Agnès V” (1988), this daring film by Agnès Varda and Jane Birkin (who wrote the story behind the film) explores unconventional love between a woman of average age, interpreted by Birkin, and a 14 -year -old video game enthusiast, played by Varda’s son, Mathieu Demy.
Jane by Charlotte
Charlotte Gainsbourg | France | 2021 | French | 90 min.
Over time, Charlotte Gainsbourg examines her mother, Jane Birkin, in a way that she had never done before. Through the objective of a camera, they engage in each other, revealing their inner beings and nourishing a mother-daughter relationship that transcends years. This moving documentary is a testimony to the lasting link between two remarkable women.
While we remember Jane Birkin, we celebrate her heritage as a symbol of artistic freedom and innovation. We invite film enthusiasts and music lovers to join us to honor this emblematic figure during the 6th edition of the El Gouna film festival.
About the El Gouna Film Festival
One of the flagship festivals in the MENA region, the GFF aims to present a wide variety of films to a passionate and wise audience, while promoting better communication between cultures thanks to the art of cinema. Its objective is to connect the filmmakers of the region with their international counterparts in a spirit of cooperation and cultural exchange. The El Gouna Film Festival has forged a reputation by presenting a diverse programming of films from around the world, with a strong emphasis on Arab cinema. The festival aims to promote and support industry growth in the region and provide a platform to filmmakers to present their work. The Festival also undertakes to discover new voices and strives to be a catalyst for the development of cinema in the Arab world, in particular thanks to the Cinegouna platform, an event focused on the industry created to support Egyptian and Arab filmmakers by providing them with artistic and financial support. Cinegouna Platform presents the Cinegouna Springboard and Cinegouna Bridge programs, which offer opportunities for sharing and learning.
Press release.
