A panel discussion, in partnership with the CNC, to shed light on the factors that have contributed to the success of French animation.
The idea for this panel discussion came about following the publication of the book written by Dominique Puthod, Le Festival international du film d’animation : 50 ans d’une histoire animée, and this year’s tribute to French animation as seen by international personalities. The discussion brings together some of the major figures who witnessed the emergence of the French animation industry that really took off in the 1980s.
After an introduction by Frédérique Bredin (President of the CNC), this CNC-CITIA panel discussion will be moderated by Denis Walgenwitz (director, screenwriter, animator and President of the Association Française du cinema d’animation since 2005). Leading figures from French culture and cinema will deliberate during this five-part discussion:
Annecy: An event that changes with the times: CITIA Chairman, Dominique Puthod, will analyse the profound changes the Annecy Festival has undergone over the years, focusing in particular on the rupture of 1982 (change of organizing team, additional categories, the creation of Mifa).
The 1980s and the image plan: the former Minister for Culture and Communication, Jack Lang, will talk about the proactive government policy of the 80s that helped to develop the animation industry through support to studios and training institutes as well as major changes in France’s audiovisual scene.
Winning back the domestic audiovisual market: the President of Xilam Animation, Marc du Pontavice, will explain how French TV series have become very valuable and how French animation has quickly become the most exported audiovisual genre.
The resurgence of the French and European feature films: President of Illumination MacGuff, Jacques Bled, will focus on the success of Michel Ocelot’s box-office hit of 1999, Kirikou and the Sorceress, which paved the way for European features and helped other French productions to get funding.
Does the French touch exist?: Animation Director at DreamWorks Animation, Kristof Serrand, will wind up the discussion by identifying the strengths that have allowed French animation to compete in the same league as American family comedies.