Concordia teams up with the 43rd International Festival of Films on Art, MAR. 14–24

Concordia is once again collaborating with the International Festival of Films on Art (FIFA). Its 43rd edition, beginning March 14, brings an exciting lineup of films pushing the boundaries of cinematic expression.

This year, Concordia will partner with FIFA on multiple events, including a special “carte blanche” program. The program celebrates the university’s 50th anniversary and features a selection of films curated by Jean-Claude Bustros, associate professor of film production. Screenings will take place at the J.A. DeSève Cinema at 1400 De Maisonneuve Boulevard West.

Exploring the limits of perception

One of the standout collaborations this year is Carte Blanche à Paul Rothé — Rien à voir : Filmer le vide, l’absence, l’invisible. Curated by Paul Rothé, film critic and mk2 films programmer, this program examines the limits of perception and the unseen through films speaking of emptiness, absence and the imperceptible.

Opening with Marguerite Duras’s “Les mains négatives,” the program hopes to take viewers on a spectral journey through a museum-like Paris. The program will include five films, which will be presented on March 21 at 5:30 p.m.

Also on March 21, at 8 p.m., the festival will highlight Concordia's 50th anniversary with Parcours / Pathways, a special short film evening. Organized with the Mel Hoppenheim School of Cinema, in collaboration with professor Jean-Claude Bustros, this other carte blanche event will present a curated program of experimental and interactive cinema.

Bustros, a leading figure in Quebec’s experimental cinema, is guiding this retrospective event, reflecting the cinema school’s pivotal role in shaping the genre. The selection showcases the university's long-standing relationship with avant-garde filmmaking and features works from influential figures like Bruce Conner, recognized for his pioneering use of found footage in experimental cinema; Lysanne Thibodeau,  BFA 81, MFA 00, an underground filmmaker prominent in the 1980s; and Stan Brakhage, known for his hand-painted films and innovative approaches to visual storytelling.

The lineup also includes Concordia alumni Alexandre Larose, BFA 06, MFA 14, whose “Ville Marie” examines the relationship between Concordia, Montreal and experimental cinema; and Louise Bourque, BFA 90, whose films gained recognition in the early 1990s for their exploration of memory and the physical transformation of film itself.

Linking academia and the arts

Concordia’s collaboration with FIFA will culminate with La Nuit du court on March 22, a night dedicated to short films. With more than 20 titles, this evening promises to take audiences on a cinematic journey that spans genres, themes and styles — from Elvis Presley to nature and simulations.

“This longstanding partnership is a testament to Concordia’s commitment to fostering the next generation of filmmakers and artists,” says Annie Gérin, dean of Concordia’s Faculty of Fine Arts. “We are proud to continue our collaboration with FIFA, a festival that plays a key role in bridging academia and the arts community.”

FIFA screenings will take place from March 14 to 24 in Montreal and Quebec City, with online access from March 22 to April 2. Films can also be accessed year-round on the ARTS.FILM platform. FIFA is offering a special In Theatres Passport for $30 to those aged 30 and under, providing access to all in-theatre screenings.

Find out more about FIFA, including Concordia’s collaboration with the festival, and discover the full list of screenings and events by visiting the festival’s website.

Learn more about Concordia’s Faculty of Fine Arts.