When it comes to finding French films or TV shows for kids to watch, the number of programs available on streaming platforms in the US can be overwhelming. That's why, each month, Villa Albertine's CinéSchool program manager Nathalie Charles puts together a list of the top French content for kids and teens that is available online. While some films or series are pure entertainment, others are designed to share useful educational concepts, and more still are great for the whole family to enjoy! So, what's on this month?
MyFrenchFilmFestival (until February 15, 2022)
MyFrenchFilmFestival.com is a worldwide French film festival presented by Unifrance, and whose goal is to shine a spotlight on new generation French-language filmmakers.
Don't miss their Kids section featuring animated movie Calamity (1.99€) and shorts Treasure, Mido and the Instrumals, Eye for an Eye, and Astralium (all the shorts are available for free!)!
Available online here and also on several US platforms/channels.
Animation First Festival (Online & Nationwide: February 14-21, 2022)
Animation First Festival, presented by the French Institute Alliance Francaise (FIAF), celebrates the enduring legacy and trailblazing innovation of French animation. While presented in person in New York City, the Festival's fifth edition will be also available online for a nationwide audience.
Their young audience selection includes The Bears' Famous Invasion of Sicily, The Tower, Ex-Aequo!, Fresh Out of School - Andrée Chedid, The Mysteries of Paris, and Wonderful Wacky Wolves.
Available online here.
The Short Story of a Fox and a Mouse
Directed by Camille Chaix, Kevin Roger, Hugo Jean, Marie Pillier, Juliette Jourdan, 2015, 6 min. / Rated G
A lonesome fox hunts a mouse and their relationship will evolve as two owls interfere with the hunt.
Available here.
The 400 Blows (Les Quatre cent coups)
Directed by Francois Truffaut, 1959, 1h59, recommended for ages 12+
François Truffaut’s first feature is also his most personal. Told through the eyes of Truffaut’s cinematic counterpart, Antoine Doinel (Jean-Pierre Léaud), The 400 Blows sensitively re-creates the trials of Truffaut’s own childhood, unsentimentally portraying aloof parents, oppressive teachers, and petty crime.
Available on The Criterion Channel | Kanopy | HBOMax | Amazon Video | Vudu | YouTube | GooglePlay | iTunes
Sahara
Directed by Pierre Coré, 2017, 1h25, France-Canada, recommended for ages 7+
When his new love is captured by an evil snake charmer, a young cobra and his scorpion best friend set out across the desert on a wild rescue mission.
Available on Netflix (#tip: make sure to click on "Subtitles & Audio" and select audio in French!)
