Interview with Maxime Lachaud, Festival Director.

In this episode, we talk with Maxime Lechaud, director of the Festival International du Film Grolandais de Toulouse, known as FIFIGROT, which recently celebrated its 14th edition as a vibrant hub for provocative and socially conscious cinema. Originating in northern France, the festival relocated to Toulouse, emphasizing its commitment to showcasing both contemporary and overlooked older films.

Diverse Film Selection and Themes

The Fifigrot programme follows a dual approach, premiering recent works that often encounter distribution hurdles in France while also revisiting historical and controversial films from past decades. This blend highlights the festival’s dedication to fostering dialogue through cinema, with a particular focus on artists and themes that challenge societal norms. A notable highlight was the screening of films by legendary directors such as Peter Watkins, Julio Questi, and Bigas Luna, many of which are rare or rarely available in standard cinema settings.

Engaging Cinema Beyond the Screen

Beyond film screenings, Fifigrot is renowned for its dynamic festival village, creating an immersive cultural experience that combines literature, graphic arts, and live performances. This central hub fosters community engagement, allowing attendees to connect through conversations, exhibitions, and music, embodying the festival’s spirit of creative exchange.

Reflecting on this year’s programme, Lachaud notes an undercurrent of melancholy, shaped by global events. Films like Nadav Lapid’s “Yes” uniquely intertwine humor and tragedy, offering audiences profound reflections on current realities.

The festival’s impact extends beyond Toulouse, reintroducing forgotten films to the wider French market, supporting new filmmakers, and cultivating a passionate cinephile community. As it continues to evolve, the festival remains a vital platform for innovative, socially aware cinema celebrated by both veterans and newcomers alike.