Experience French Cinema Like Never Before: The French Spotlight at the 26th Annual Newport Beach Film Festival 2025
- Vincent Laroche
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
As the Pacific breeze flirts with the red carpet, the Newport Beach Film Festival (NBFF) is ready to roll out the glamour for its 26th year. From October 16–23, 2025, Southern California’s coastline transforms into a playground for film lovers, culture aficionados, and anyone who enjoys a splash of cinematic luxury. This year, the French Spotlight promises to charm with wit, soul, and a little je ne sais quoi, headlined by the highly anticipated The Man Who Saw the Bear (L’homme qui a vu l’ours qui a vu l’homme), directed by the legendary Pierre Richard and starring Timi-Joy Marbot and Gustave Kervern. The film brings together multiple generations of talent, blending timeless French cinematic charm with a fresh contemporary touch.
For cinephiles eager to toast French artistry, sip some wine, and savor conversation under the California stars, there’s a special treat: use the promo code French2025 at the French Spotlight website for $5 off tickets to the film and its chic after-party.
✦ French Spotlight: Humor, Heart, and a Touch of Magic
The French Spotlight is more than a screening—it’s a celebration. This year’s feature, The Man Who Saw the Bear, follows Grégoire and Michel, two unlikely friends united by their love of nature and a mischievous circus bear. Over 88 minutes, Pierre Richard’s signature blend of humor, vulnerability, and poetic absurdity shines, while co-stars Timi-Joy Marbot and Gustave Kervern add depth and modern charm.
Film Synopsis: Directed by and starring Pierre Richard, alongside Timi-Joy Marbot and Gustave Kervern, The Man Who Saw the Bearfollows Grégoire and Michel, who are from different generations but united by friendship, a love of nature, and a deep affection for a circus bear who has escaped. Their whimsical journey explores human connection, the beauty of the natural world, and the unexpected adventures that arise when worlds collide. The film will make its North American West Coast premiere at NBFF.
Fans of Richard’s classics, from Le Grand Blond avec une chaussure noire to La Chèvre, will recognize the nostalgia while appreciating the film’s fresh take on friendship, nature, and life’s delightful contradictions.
✦ Cinema Meets Coastal Glamour
NBFF is known not just for its stellar lineup, but for the full experience. From the historic Lido Theatre to modern art-house venues, the festival merges world-class cinema with wine receptions, fashion showcases, and afterparties that celebrate the intersection of film, food, and design.
The French Spotlight after-party (Tuesday, October 21, 2025) at Time Nightclub is a Riviera-inspired soirée, featuring French wines, artisanal cheeses, and curated music that captures the rhythm of Parisian nightlife. Attendees with a “film + party” ticket ($60) are in for a glamorous evening of European flair. Cocktail attire is strongly encouraged; the party is for guests 21+.
✦ Why You Can’t Miss It
Exclusive Premiere: Be among the first to watch The Man Who Saw the Bear on the U.S. West Coast.
Cultural Exchange: Meet French filmmakers, producers, and artists in an intimate yet sophisticated setting.
Culinary Delights: Enjoy hors d’oeuvres by award-winning Orange County chefs while mingling with fellow culture lovers.
Tribute to French Cinema: Celebrate the humor, depth, and enduring charm that define French storytelling.
✦ Showtimes & Location
📍 Starlight Triangle Square Cinemas, Theater #2, Costa Mesa, California
🎥 Tuesday, October 21, 2025, 7:45 p.m. (with after-party)
🎥 Wednesday, October 22, 2025, 5:00 p.m. (no after-party)
🎟 Tickets are on sale now at the French Spotlight website. Use code French2025 for $5 off.
✦ About the Newport Beach Film Festival
Since 1999, NBFF has grown into a prestigious cultural event, showcasing over 350 films from 50 countries and hosting more than 60,000 attendees annually. Its mission: to celebrate originality and innovation in storytelling while fostering cross-cultural dialogue between artists and audiences. Major sponsors include UCI Health, The Los Angeles Times’ The Envelope, KIA, Fashion Island, and the City of Newport Beach, supporting NBFF’s blend of cinematic artistry with lifestyle sophistication.
✦ A Final Note
From the Pacific coastline to the Riviera-inspired after-party, the French Spotlight at Newport Beach is a rare chance to experience French culture, cinema, and culinary delights without leaving California.
Whether you’re a longtime Francophile, a film student, or someone who simply loves a night of elegance and laughter, this event promises an unforgettable evening where cinema, culture, and coastal glamour collide.an experience.
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