Filmfest DC Opening Night: Screening of “Colours of Time”

Nearly 30 years after his "Chacun Cherche Son Chat" screened at the festival, Klapisch returns with this delightful time-tripping film that masterfully captures la Belle Époque and the energy of a society stepping into a new cultural era. The story follows Adèle, who leaves her Normandy farmhouse in 1895 to search for her long-lost mother in Paris—a city being transformed by artists like Victor Hugo, Sarah Bernhardt, and Impressionist painters Monet and Renoir.

In 2024, four of Adèle's previously unknown descendants—neurotic executive Céline, genial beekeeper Guy, content creator Seb, and French teacher Abdel—begin excavating their ancestor's life story through old letters, paintings, and photos as they assess the contents of that long-abandoned farmhouse. This gorgeously kaleidoscopic crowd-pleaser skillfully blends past and present in thoughtful, thought-provoking strokes.

Attendees need a valid photo ID and Eventbrite ticket (names must match), and should allow extra time for security check-in. Large bags, umbrellas, backpacks, and bike helmets are not permitted on embassy grounds, and there is no on-site parking available.