French Film Festival London 2026 Showcases Animation for Adults and families
Skwigly
Four animated features will screen at the French Film Festival London, which returns to Ciné Lumière from 18–29 November 2026. The selection includes Phuong Mai Nguyen’s In Waves, adult comedy Jim Queen and the Quest for Chloroqueer, and family titles Iron Boy and Viva Carmen!
In Waves
Directed by Phuong Mai Nguyen, In Waves combines 2D and 3D animation in an adaptation of the graphic memoir. Developed over five years, the feature forms part of the festival’s animation offering for adult audiences.
IN WAVES – Cr: Courtesy of Netflix © Silex Films – France 3 Cinéma – Gao Shan Pictures – Charades productions – Panique! – 2026
Jim Queen and the Quest for Chloroqueer
Nicolas Athané and Marco Nguyen direct this adult animated comedy set in Paris, where a mysterious virus turns gay men heterosexual. The quest to uncover its source raises the question of whether true love might provide a cure.
The festival’s press representative describes the film as very funny, drawing comparisons between its visual style and early Rick and Morty.
Iron Boy
Screening in the festival’s CineFamilies strand, Louis Clichy’s Iron Boy (Le Corset) is a hand-painted 2D coming-of-age story.
Following an accident on the family farm, ten-year-old Christophe must wear a medical corset. As he struggles with the change, music and his friendship with Clara help him find a way forward. According to the festival’s announcement, the film received the Un Certain Regard Jury Prize at Cannes this year.
Still from Viva Carmen!
Viva Carmen!
Sébastien Laudenbach’s Viva Carmen! (Carmen, l’oiseau rebelle) offers families a fresh interpretation of Georges Bizet’s opera.
Set in 1820s Seville, the film follows thirteen-year-old Salva, who becomes fascinated by Carmen. When an omen warns that her life is in danger, he gathers his street friends to try to save her.
The French Film Festival London takes place at Ciné Lumière, 17 Queensberry Place, South Kensington. Visit the festival programme for screening details and booking.