Young girl reading by Jean-Honoré Fragonard
Literature

Boring French Classics...Think again

It is not always easy to get into French literary classics. Especially if you were traumatized by your French lessons at school by some sadistic teacher who made each class a misery by making you study horrifically boring books... But it is now time to reconcile you with French literature!

Boring French Classics...Think again

It is not always easy to get into French literary classics. Especially if you were traumatized by your French lessons at school by some sadistic teacher who made each class a misery by making you...

2010 Oscars - The Winners

The 82nd Academy Awards better known as the Oscars took place last night at the Kodak Theatre in LA. Gorgeous actresses and handsome actors, film directors and producers, designers and music...

Books for Valentine's Day

Six wonderful books to offer on Valentin's Day.

The Pros and Cons of Proposing on Valentine’s Day: To ask or not to ask, that is the question…

Ah… Valentine’s Day – it’s enough to stike terror into even the most romantic and amorous of boyfriends. Shall I propose on the 14th? What if she says «Yes»? What if she says «No»? What if some...

Valentine Forever...

Only a few days to go before Valentine’s day is upon us. Some will already be dreading the day, others will be looking forward to it with mounting anticipation. For many, it will be a day when...

The origins of Valentine's Day

On 14th February, we will be - if we are one of the lucky ones - celebrating Valentine's Day. But do you know its origins?

French Music ends on a high in 2009

French music finished on a high in 2009 with news that live French concerts in the UK had gone up 18% on 2008...

This Month's Selection by the French Bookshop

Novels, essays and recipes are all part of this list of books that the French Bookshop recommends this month.

“Français of the Year” 2009 - The Winners

The winners of the third edition of the “Français of the Year” awards were uncovered on 17th December at an exclusive awards ceremony held at the the Maison du Languedoc Roussillon in Cavendish...

Beautiful French Books to Offer for Christmas

A fine collection of books to offer for Christmas.

French and British etiquette: How to avoid the faux pas?

French and British social codes are not always the same. Who on earth would want to behave inappropriately when crossing the Channel, do you? When it comes to French or British etiquette it is...

November Books and Christmas Present Ideas

Once more, the French Bookshop makes us discover a selection of books for us to enjoy.

The London Film Festival - A Prophet Wins Best Film Award

Jacques Audiard's A Prophet wins the Best Film Award at the London Film Festival. Find out more.

October Book Selection

A wide selection of books for you to read as a personal treat or as a gift for others.

Books to read in September

A selection of books to make you forget that the summer is nearly over.

July 2009 Book selection by the French Bookshop

Discover a new selection of French books which have recently arrived at the French Bookshop.

14th July Celebrations

Bastille Day is approaching: the only day when we French not only have an excuse, but a duty to party is, once again, upon us!

14th July in London

For those of you who feel that a 14th July is not a 14th July if you are not amongst other French people dancing along to the old favourite tunes, here is a list of events taking place in London...

London's Favourite French Film 2009 - The Results

After weeks of suspence, we can let you discover the results for London's Favourite French Film 2009. A big thank you to all the people who have taken part and without whom this yearly event would...

A french girl's diary during the london tube strike.

In French Only: During the last 48-hour London tube strike, a young French girl well accustomed to French strikes noted her thoughts on her experience here in London.

June 2009 Book selection by the French Bookshop

You might already be thinking about books to take with you this summer on holiday. Something that you can really get into or something a little light that will not require too much brain exertion....

Interview with Diane Kruger on "Anything for her"

She's still only 32 and Diane Kruger has achieved more in her career than most manage to achieve in a lifetime...

Monarchy vs Republic - the dilemma

In 2008, an official report from the UN encouraged Great Britain to carry out a referendum to find out if the British wanted to abolish their Monarchy to be replaced by a republic similar to the...

Cannes 2009: The Results – Not quite what was anticipated

Award list and comments: the Cannes Film Festival 2009 is not quite what was anticipated. Good surprise or disappointment?

Box Office 2009 : a national movie in favour.

France and Great Britain pay tribute to their cinema industry by putting "Slumdog Millionnaire" and "LOL" at the top of their respective box office.

Premiere of "The first day of the rest of your life"

The Premiere of Rémy Bezançon's new film "The first day of the rest of your life" will be taking place on 25th June during London's Favourite French Film 2009 award night, a major event organised...

Interview with Paul Morrison and Matthew McNulty

Touching, sincere and well-acted, Little Ashes, the new film about Dali, Lorca and Bunuel's tempestuous youth, friendship and love was both deeply moving and convincing. Therefore, I was extremely...

Vinyan

Devastated by the loss of their son, Joshua, in the tsunami of 2004, Paul (Rufus Sewell –The Illusionist) and Jeanne Belhmer (Emmanuelle Béart - 8 Femmes) have remained in Thailand. Since his body...

London Season VS French Circuit

The English Season is just about to begin. It is true that it is not what it used to be at the time of the 'Bal des Débutantes' but still, there are still a number of major events which have to be...

0SS 117, rebels against the politically correct.

After the international succes of Quantum of Solace, it is the turn of the French secret agent, OSS 117, to explode the number of cinema entries in France with the latest 'Rio ne répond plus'. The...

May 2009 Book selection by the French Bookshop

What about lying on the grass and reading one of the books the French Bookshop has selected for you? May day, May day, you might actually enjoy it!

Little Ashes

Much ink is about to be spilled over this controversial film about Dali, Lorca and Bunuel's tempestuous youth, friendship and love... UK release is planned for 8th May.

Do you need a bluffer’s guide to the Nouvelle Vague?

The French New Wave or Nouvelle Vague is going to be a hot topic in the coming months. Indeed, we are currently celebrating its 50th birthday and films of that period are simply everywhere. It is...

April 2009 Book selection by the French Bookshop

Discover a selection of newly released French books available at the French Bookshop.

Accentuate your life : our way of speaking.

Sometimes, it can be difficult to understand each other in the same country. Accents can represent a linguistic mosaic which enhances our language or divide citizens. So, what does your accent hide...

Interview with Nicolas Cazalé - A Shooting Star

Charismatic, intelligent and down to earth, are words that come to mind to describe Nicolas Cazalé. Nothing could have predicted that this young man from Pau who left his family thirteen years ago...

Success without a degree, is it possible?

Both France and Great Britain are to a certain extent, elitist nations. Faced with this reality and this growing gap between classes the French government becomes more populist and makes a lot of...

Was 1958 the year of the last Débutantes?

Are you proficient in the art of the perfect curtsey? Kensington Palace is currently celebrating the 50th anniversary of the last Court presentation (1958): This journey into the annual agenda of...

Easter: Origins and Traditions

Easter is approaching! I know for most of you, it will just be the perfect opportunity to eat loads of chocolate without feeling guilty for once but before stuffing yourself, do you know its...

Maurice Jarre has died at the age of 84

Three times Oscar winner, Maurice Jarre dies in his sleep. He is one of the greatest film score writers of all time.

Alain Bashung dies of lung cancer

France mourns one of its best music artists: French crooner Alain Bashung, 61, died of lung cancer on Saturday 14th March. Alain Bashung had been ruling the French rock scene since the 1980s with...

CinéMoi: the first and only TV channel dedicated to French film is here and now on air! Sky Channel 839

French movies are magical; they never lose their ability to enchant. No other national cinema has had such an influence on the art form of film. Here at CinéMoi we have forged relationships with...

Experience the gravity with Ayo

Ayo is a woman just like me. At least that is what she told me… Well, I have my doubts on the subject which might not be the same as hers. With half a million of her first opus "Joyful" sold in...

Can culture be the solution to the financial crisis?

Sold out exhibitions, concerts and theatre plays, full cinemas… the less we can say is that not all have been affected by the Credit Crunch in the same way! Cultural sectors get remarkably high...

March 2009 Book selection by the French Bookshop

Discover a selection of newly released books at the French Bookshop.

Césars 2009 - Séraphine wipes the board clean with 7 Césars

Mesrine with 10 nominations only received three Césars in the end: for best film, best actor and best sound. Séraphine, however, wiped the board clean with 7 Césars against 8 nominations. The other...

Victoires de la Musique 2009: When one generation meets another...

Last year, the great winners were Vanessa Paradis and Renan Luce, obviously, this time, they are Alain Bashung, Camille and Julien Doré. Let's sum up the prize list!

Meeting with an icon: Jane Birkin

Last week I met Jane Birkin to speak to her about her new album “Enfants d’Hiver” and her recent show in London (which took place on 21st February at the Barbican). Her new album is made-up of...

Don't take yourselves too seriously Frenchies!

Forget the cliché about uptight British people… The truth is they are much funnier than the French! Do you want to know why?

February 2009 Book Selection by the French Bookshop

February is the perfect time for reading whilst watching snow falling and get cosy by the fire! Discover this month selection by the French Bookshop.

Ici Londres turned 10!

Ici-Londres, one of the French community magazines, specialised in classified advertising turned 10 this month! Its team celebrated its 10th birthday with a bang on 29th February at the French...

Alcohol and teens: a bad mixture

As a French girl living in London, I was quite surprised to see so many teens hanging around the streets of London on Friday and Saturday nights, completely drunk. It made me wonder- do British...

Lol

Discover our review of Lisa Azuelos's (Comme t'y es Belle) new film starring Sophie Marceau, "Lol".

Play with France in London!

DVDs, cinema, theatre and concert tickets... Discover all the competitions of France in London! Time has come to play and win!

Victoires de la Musique 2009: The Best of the French Musical Scene?

February is definitely a time for music. In fact, major musical awards are about to take place on both sides of the Channel: the perfect opportunity to weigh up the situation and to be perfectly up...

Césars 2009: And the nominees are...

After the announcement of the nominees for the Oscars 2009, it is the turn of French cinema. The official selection for the Césars 2009 was revealed on 23rd January. Three films clearly lead the...

Jean-Paul Belmondo is back!

Surprisingly, after 8 years of absence because of a stroke, Jean-Paul Belmondo is back on French screens. In “Un homme et son chien”, by Francis Huster, he is Charles, an old man, rejected by...

Paris 36

A ‘feel good’ film for those who think that French cinema is only good at making you miserable.

Why the France Show (what used to be called the Vive La France Show) should be scrapped.

Over the years, this show has become more and more out dated and a clear example of poor taste. Yes, people were flocking there thanks to the free ticket offer. But what a disappointment! If you...

The “Godfather” of French cinema, Claude Berri, dies

The French cinema has just lost one of its pillars. The successful director and producer Claude Berri passed away in a Paris hospital on Monday 12th January, aged 74.

Catherine Deneuve reopens a revamped Ciné Lumière

On Friday 9th January, Catherine Deneuve was at the Ciné Lumière for its re-opening after 6 months of building work.

A Christmas Tale

A superb family portrait, both dark and acidly funny, an outstanding cast and an extraordinary staging: The last masterpiece of Arnaud Despleschin and official selection of Cannes Festival 2008 "A...

Burns night in London: Let’s party the Scottish way!

Prepare yourselves: On 25th January, London will turn Scottish for the night. Ideas to go out, traditional recipes... France in London helps you to spend the perfect Burns Night. And for the French...

To detox or not to detox, that is the question.

Hurrah! 2009 is finally here! Unfortunately, ushering in the New Year doesn't end with Champagne and kisses. Oh no, inevitably the next bit is not quite so joyful. With a New Year come new...

January 2009 book selection by the French Bookshop

Read more in French is one of your New Year's resolutions. Indeed this could be an excellent one. The French Bookshop helps you to choose in the middle of this labyrinth. Let's discover the new...

France or UK: On which side of the Channel would you rather grow up?

A Few weeks ago Unicef reported that British children were the unhappiest in the Western World whereas France faces issues to guarantee the same chances in life to all children and speaks about...

Favourite French actor and actress: The verdict

Do you remember? A few weeks ago we decided to compile a list of some of the most promising and internationally popular French actors and actresses, and asked you to name your favourite ones......

Infidelity: British gentlemen vs horny French?

According to the latest Durex survey 39% of French men confess they have already had an affair. A much higher number than the English results. However, does this actually mean that the French are...

Nouvelle Vague

Once again Nouvelle Vague has set London on fire. Last week, this outstanding musical group, which gives an illuminating insight into the weird and wonderful world of New Wave in Bossa Nova style,...

Moriarty crosses the Channel: How about a little tour of Moriartyland?

Bohemian, artists, story-tellers, Moriarty is one of those great bands you interview with pleasure… and always with surprise. When I was lucky enough to reach Arthur Moriarty on the phone, he was...

Transporter 3

Written and produced by Luc Besson, "Transporter 3", has all the ingredients of a classic action film: a handsome hero, villains, fast cars, violent fights… All to be taken lightly.

A French Christmas or an English Christmas?

When I first came to celebrate Christmas in England in the late '70s, I was shocked to discover how different things were in our rituals and traditions. It simply did not feel like the Christmas I...

Rivals

Discover our review on Jacques Maillot's latest movie "Rivals" starring Guillaume Canet and François Cluzet: a subtle, intelligent, deeply-moving and surprising film.

Beauty and talent: the new generation of French actresses

They are young, beautiful, and above all extremely talented. Discover the five leading actresses of the new French generation and vote for your favourite!

Mathieu Amalric, Vincent Cassel, Guillaume Canet, Mathieu Kassovitz: Who do you prefer?

French male actors and directors are becoming increasingly popular away from France.It was high time we examined why. We have compiled a list of some of the most promising, and ask you which you...

Interview with Constance Amiot on Acoustic France

Interview with French artist Constance Amiot on the release of "Acoustic France", an enchanting musical voyage to France with contemporary songs by leading singer-songwriters.

The Rocking New French Musical Scene

French music is crossing borders. Until recenly, few people knew anything about French Rock. John Lennon once famously said "French Rock is like English wine". One should assume this was not meant...

Let's Talk About the Rain - Our review

The Bacri-Jaoui duo has once again succeeded in giving us something to talk about.Their new film glimpses at the lives of the Villanova family members. Their struggle and their 'everyday...

Led Zeppelin's Robert Plant and Beyonce less cool than Carla Bruni?

Brits have voted Carla Bruni the coolest personality of the year according to a survey carried out by Virgin Media. Surprising in a way because she's not so cool in France.

France-United Kingdom: best of friends or best enemies?

France and Britain have what it takes to be the best friends in the world. However, there are still people who seem to have difficulties forgetting some old rivalries...

British Wedding vs Mariage français

If you’re French and invited to an English wedding, you may have some surprises, and vice and versa. Different dress code, food, length of the reception… France in London gives you an overview of...

November Book Selection by the French Bookshop

A warm drink by the fire and a good book is all one needs to relax when the weather is bitterly cold. The French Bookshop has put together a selection of books to pick from.

Jacques Mesrine: the French Robin Hood or just a shameless gangster?

France's former public enemy number one is back! "Death Instinct", the movie devoted to Jacques Mesrine, starring Vincent Cassel and Gérard Depardieu was released on 22nd October in France....

The new French musical scene : Electro

French music crosses borders now, let France in London guide you! First, electro: Everybody knows the French Touch, this new electro wave lead by French DJs and especially Ed Banger's records....

La Vie d'Artiste

The first feature film directed by Marc Fitoussi is a pleasant comedy which unfortunately never really manages to take off. A great pity, because there are some fantastic elements to it.

Parc, by Arnaud des Pallières

Inspired by the 1969 novel "Bullet Park" written by John Cheever, Parc, by Arnaud des Pallières is a strange and singular film. The kind you'll love or hate, but nothing in between is possible.

A Simple Heart

For her first movie, Marion Lainé chooses to adapt the famous Flaubert novel, "A simple heart". This masterpiece of French literature follows the experiences of a maid in a Normandy household. For...

Sister Emmanuelle dies aged 99: Tribute

Sister Emmanuelle was a nun who spent most of her life helping people in Cairo's shantytowns, who was also known for her unorthodox religious views, her strong personality and her deep commitment....

La Belle Personne

Discover France In London's review on Christophe Honoré latest movie " La Belle Personne": A must-see which cannot leave you indifferent.

Shhhht, that's taboo!

What is Taboo in France might not be in England and vice and versa. So, here are a few little differences which could perhaps be useful to know in order to avoid putting your big foot in it.

Actor Guillaume Depardieu dies aged 37

The son of French movie-star Gérard Depardieu has died on 13th October from complication linked to a sudden case of pneumonia. A tragic end to a very turbulent life.

Interview with Arnaud Desplechin on "A Christmas Tale"

Interview with Arnaud Desplechin on his latest masterpiece, "A Christmas Tale".

Is the French obsession with "cultural exception" declining?

It seems that the French obsession with "cultural exception" is getting softer as French people are relaxing their hostility toward the English language. And yet this was not a safe bet!

Interview with Kristin Scott Thomas on "I've loved you so long"

Interview with the almost French actress Kristin Scott Thomas on her wonderful performance in "I've loved you so long".

I've loved you so long

France In London's review on Philippe Claudel's forthcoming film: "I've loved you so long". On General release from 26th September.

September Book Selection by the French Bookshop

Why not read some of the books selected by the French Bookshop to ease your way back into real life after a well deserved holiday?

Interview with Cédric Klapisch on his new movie "Paris"

Cédric Klapisch gives us an insight into the production of his beautiful new movie:“An Ephemeral Portrait of an Eternal City”.

July Book Selection by the French Bookshop

From novel to essais, from recipe books to children's book, this month's selection is wide and varied with something for everyone.

London's Favourite French Film 2008 - The Results

Discover the elected films, the free prize draw winners and hear about Lorraine Levy's New Film, Mes Amis Mes Amours based on Marc Levy's best-seller.

May Book Selection

Discover the selection of books made by the French Bookshop in South Kensington. Robert Zaigue, has created a very comprehensive list with something for everyone.

Sporting Events

Only another few weeks till the Olympic Games are upon us. Find out more about the French teams and athletes.

Persepolis

Discover France In London's review on the must-see film this spring, 'Persepolis', by Marjane Satrapi and Vincent Paronnaud.

April Book Selection

Discover the selection of books made by the French Bookshop in South Kensington. Robert Zaigue, has created a very comprehensive list with something for everyone.

Mister Lonely: Interview with actor Denis Lavant

Mister Lonely, the latest film by director Harmony Korine is now shown throughout the UK. Read our review and interview with French actor Denis Lavant.

Great performance from Gad at the Hammersmith Apollo

After months of waiting, Gad finally showed up at the Hammersmith Apollo to give us one of his best performances ever. Read more about his new show.

Bienvenue Chez les Ch'tis

After only two weeks of screening in France, ‘Bienvenue chez les ch’tis’ has already seduced over 9 million cinemagoers. to have an idea before the official UK release on 1st April, discover the...

Marion Cotillard wins the Oscar for Best Actress

French actress Marion Cotillard was named, this Sunday 24th February at the Academy Award ceremony, best actress for her portrayal of Edith Piaf in La Vie en Rose.

Book Selection March 2008

Discover a selection of newly released books at the French Bookshop.

Asterix at the Olympic Games

Discover our review of newly released 'Asterix at the Olympic Games'

The Diving Bell and the Butterfly: Interview with director Julian Schnabel

Interview with film director Julian Schnabel following the release of his movie 'The diving Bell and the Butterfly', the adaptation of the incredible book by 'Elle' editor in chief Jean-Dominique...

Eastern Promises - Interview with Vincent Cassel

Patricia Connell interviews Vincent Cassel at the Soho Hotel in London about his latest film: Eastern Promises. Organised crime has been covered on many occasions but this is not just any...

London's Favourite French Film 2007 - The Results

All you need to know about the Award Ceremony of London's Favourite French Film 2007 held on 13th September at the French Institute: the gala evening and of course the results. 1. The Chorus...

The Tour de France: Ready, steady…partez!

Last weekend was by far London’s busiest weekend of the year with the “Grand depart” of the Tour de France which for the first the time ever started from the British capital. On this occasion,...

Molière

Laurent Tirard’s sumptuous and seductive comedy, MOLIERE, starring Romain Duris (The Beat That My Heart Skipped) in the title role, will open across the UK on July 13

Le tour de France 2007

The Tour de France will start from London in 2007. The Capital will welcome around 200 of the world’s best cyclists to battle on the streets of London for the legendary yellow jersey. Events will...

London's Favourite French Film 2007

Until 31st July, you can vote online for the films that have captivated you in the last 5 years. In order to help you, we have listed the films that have come out in London during this...

Music Day 2007

This is the third edition of Exhibition Road Music Day, London's home of international Fête de la Musique, a one day of free music taking place on Thursday 21st June in and around the Cultural and...

Tell No one

French thriller re-invented. One of the best thriller seen in a long time. We saw it and we loved it. Must be seen.

The 23rd French President...

Will Sarkozy be able to change the future of France? Will the French give him the majority in the Assembly that he needs to be able to implement the changes he has promised his followers?

The Cannes Films Festival 2007

For its 60th Anniversary, the Cannes Festival was sure to be better than ever before. Glamour and beauty were of course essential ingredients for its success.

Interview with Dany Boon

Dany Boon is receiving in his suite and that’s where I meet him. He is promoting his latest film: ‘My Best Friend’. In it he has the part of a taxi driver who is a really nice guy and who lives...

And the winner is...

Nicolas Sarkozy has won the French presidential elections with 53.06% against 46.94% for Segolene Royal. His job as 6th President of the 5th republique will start on 16th May when he appoints his...

Books Selection May 2007

Le narrateur de Pierre Charras trace le portrait de son père, né en 1911. Avec des mots justes et simples, il ressuscite les cartes postales nostalgiques d'un bonheur familial fragile. Il se lance...

French election : first round results

Nicolas Sarkozy and Segolene Royal will face each other in a run-off vote in two weeks time on Sunday 6th May.

Cultural Identity

It has been said that London was selected for the Olympic Games 2012 because, as ‘the most international city in the world, it offered a world games fit for an age of globalisation.’ According to...

Vote par procuration pour les Français de Londres

You want to vote for the next French presidential elections but you know that you might be away at that time. What are your options and how can you do it? Want to watch the results live on a big...

April 2007 Book selection

2 femmes, 1 homme… 3 personnages confient leur vison de la vie, du mariage ; Inonka, l’épouse amoureuse trahie, Peter, le mari lucide et fuyant, digne représentant de la bourgeoisie hongroise et...

French Film Festival in Great Britain 2007

From 20th April to 4th May 2007 enjoy more than 20 French films in London during the French Film Festival UK 2007

Renoir Landscapes

Pierre-Auguste Renoir (1841-1919) painted landscapes throughout his life. However, during the first two decades of his long career they constituted an especially important area of experimentation...

Sidcup and Arleux-en-Gohelle Twinning

First World War memory lives on and initiates twinning between Sidcup and Arleux-en-Gohelle

Chirac’s Au revoir

President Jacques Chirac has finally announced Sunday that he will not be seeking re-election on 22nd April.

March 2007 book selection

1963 : la famille de Leïla vient de rejoindre le père, ouvrier des usines Renault à Billancourt. Dans ses montagnes de Kabylie, Leïla attendait cet instant depuis toujours. La France, vue de...

Nicolas Sarkozy in London

Nicolas Sarkozy was in London on 30th January both to meet Tony Blair and in the hope of securing the expats’ votes. Indeed, there was no shortage of interest on their part. Thousands of London’s...

Public meeting with Nicolas Sarkozy

Public meeting in London with Nicolas Sarkozy on Tuesday 30th January at the Old Billingsgate Market. Unique opportunity to see one of the canditates for the next French presidential elections....

Dany Boon in London

After Gad Elmaleh, Dany Boon was in London for one night only on 27th January 2007. One cannot help compare the two. What is the verdict? Should Dany Boon stick to acting? Does he have Gad's...

February 2007 book selection

De l'autre côté de la Manche, le temps s'arrête à 17 heures pour le thé. Pas seulement une tasse de Earl Grey et un nuage de lait, mais aussi des cakes et des biscuits, des sandwichs et des petits...

Crazy Horse, Le show

For more than 50 years, the Crazy Horse in Paris has been one of the world’s most glamorous and exciting nightspots, the centre of cabaret and burlesque performances in the most sensual city in the...

Paris at the Movies

Ciné lumière's three-week programme of Paris-set film comprises films from different eras and genres, and includes several screenings of silent films with live accompaniment, and special evenings...

Ridicule

Second Sight is delighted to announce the release of multi-award-winning film Ridicule from one of France’s most acclaimed directors Patrice Leconte. It will be released on DVD courtesy of Second...

Zidane, a 21st century portrait

Acclaimed as one of the greatest football films ever made, “ZIDANE: A 21ST CENTURY PORTRAIT” is a unique real-time study of one of the beautiful game’s greatest icons: ZINEDINE ZIDANE. It will be...

Vive La France 2007

We were there. Where were you? When we invited our 11,000 members to meet us at our stand for a drink, we thought we would be inondated but not at all. Was it the high winds that put you off...

Halloween

Obviously in London, Halloween has been going strong over the last 15 years. I still remember the days when kids used to ring at the door asking for a penny for the guy. This has now been replaced...

October 2006 book selection

The French Bookshop has selected for you: Marc Levy - Mes amis mes amours Tash AW - Le tristement celebre johnny Lim Laurent Mauvignier - Dans la foule Jonathan Littell - Les...

September 2006 book selection

3 books recommended by "Au fil des mots" bookshop - Les autres from Alice Ferney - Eldorado from Alain Gaudé - Lignes de faille from Nancy Huston - Les bienveillantes from Jonathan Littell...

Review of Angel-A

One of France in London's team gives her views of the film.

The Arundel Festival

The picturesque town of Arundel is located in coastal West Sussex 1 hour 17 minutes from London Victoria by train, and a half-hour’s drive along the coast from Brighton: the perfect day out or...

14th July in London

In the 25 years that I have lived in London, this was the first time ever that I decided to join in in a proper French celebration. Where else but the Bal at the French Lycée in South Kensington?!

How to recover from the World Cup blues?

Since the 9th June we have been surrounded by World Cup fever. But what are we to do now that television sets and stereos are no longer blaring out their nationalistic din?

French World Cup heroes return home

France greeted its beaten World Cup team with tears and cheers on Monday as the nation struggled to understand what prompted their midfield maestro Zinedine Zidane to head butt a player in the...

July 2006 book selection

4 books recommended by "Librairie La Page" Dimanche by Irène Némirovsky> Modern solitude by Hélène Millerand L’Amante by Yann Queffelec Eloge des femmes mûres by Stephen Vizinczey

Eleven essential phrases

Chez le boulanger. At the baker’s I am bored of baguettes. Do you have any real bread? "J’en ai marre de la baguette. Auriez vous du vrai pain?"

June 2006 book selection

4 books recommended by the "French Bookshop" - Les nouveaux anglais par Agnès C. Poirier - Le cercle fermé par Jonathan Coe - Au secours les anglais nous envahissent par J.A. Fralon - Le...

May 2006 book selection

3 books recommended by "Au fil des mots" bookshop - Villa Amalia from Pascal Quignard - Un Coeur de trop from Brita Svit - Dans l’or du temps from Claudie Gallay More information

French in Britain

Did you know that ballet is taught in French, even in England? From the age of three onwards, little girls and boys carefully learn their pliés, their soubresauts and their pas de basquee glissées

Lemming

Surreal, darkly comic and disturbing psychological thriller. Alain Getty (Laurent Lucas), a brilliant young home automation engineer, and his wife Benedicte (Charlotte Gainsbourg) having recently...

Time To Leave

Jerome (Melvil Poupaud), a gay fashion photographer, is dying and there is no cure. Yet Ozon manages to have Jerome make peace with himself in an unexpected way. He could have fallen in all the...

Interview with the director of ''Les Bonnes''

The FranceInLondon.com team interviewed the director of the coming play ''Les Bonnes'' from Jean Genet. See our review

Easter Break

Easter is approaching! Here are some great present ideas, interactive chocolate book for children, French Easter Chocolates and for adults, short breaks ideas.

Reviews on Members Only and La Belle Hélène

The FranceInLondon team went to see both productions: Members Only and La Belle Hélène. View our feedbacks.

April 2006 book selection

Au fil des mots offers you a great selection of the currently best French books.

Gad Elmaleh in London

Who would have thought that 3,000 French speaking people would have gone to see this one-man-show with such enthusiasm and that two weeks before the big day, the show was totally sold out?

The Results for Favourite French Shops voted by Londoners

You've been numerous to vote online and we thank you so much for that! Here are both results: Shops and Members!

French Cars

Franceinlondon.com has fallen for the following cars

Oscars 2006

Congratulations to Luc Jacquet and Yves Darondeau for The March of the Penguins: Best documentary feature!

March 2006 book selection

Née à Kiev en 1903, Irène Némirowski devient une romancière renommée en France dans les années 30. En 1941,elle commence à écrire un livre qui décrit l’ampleur des difficultés de tout ordre que...

Les Césars 2006

Palmars 2006: Best actor: Michel Bouquet Best actress: Nathalie Baye Best film: ''De Battre mon coeur s'est arrêté'' and many more...

The Beat That My Heart Skipped wins 2006 BAFTA

On Sunday 19th February 2006 at the BAFTA awards, the French film ''DE BATTRE MON COEUR S'EST ARRÊTÉ'' (The Beat That My Heart Skipped) won the best film in the category 'FILM NOT IN THE ENGLISH...

What so special about French men?

Why do women find French men so attractive? Why are so many of our stars (think Jane Birkin with Serge Gainsbourg, Kylie Minogue with Olivier Martinez but also Kristin ScottThomas and Eval...

February 2006 book selection

Blacksad, Ame rouge Tome III de Guarnideo. Canales Editions Dargaud. Prix de la meilleure série au festival de la bd internationale, Angoulème 2006.

January 2006 book selection

This amazing diary of Gould's life deals with his everyday life: piano, concerts and adventures of a passionate pianist...

Exhibitions not to be missed in Paris!

Our selection of exhibitions not to be missed in Paris.

Thierry Henry

All the things you expect from your team, are now captured in an exclusive new Cologne. Arsenal 1886 Cologne is a vibrant, modern scent created by a top international perfumer.

December Book selection 2005

Christmas will come soon. So, if you do not have any gift idea, just follow the lead of the French Bookshop. They prepared you a selection of wonderful books, perfect to put under the Christmas tree.

French should learn from British pragmatism!

"French should learn from British pragmatism" by Trevor Phillips. Article from the French Newspaper LE MONDE - 11th November 2005

November Book selection

In this chronicle of a middle-class province upset by the war, the author's favourite romantic themes are revealed, such as the ambiguity of feelings, the difficulty in living and the belief that...

Feedbacks on the Rugby Game Day

Dimanche 30 Octobre, 12h30, grâce à France In London, mon amie et moi allons assister à un match de rugby de première importance comptant pour la Coupe d'Europe: les London Wasps recoivent Le Stade...

French Christmas Markets

French Christmas Markets have already started in and around London! You will find there a very frenchy atmosphere: crèpes, foie gras, champagne...like if you were in France!

October Book selection

After having been accused of killing his son and going to prison , a man returns to his village where he is confronted with a hostile reception.

Onysos the Wild

Deep within a New York subway station, a dirty & wrinkled tramp reveals himself as Onysos, the god of ecxtasy & desire....

September Book selection

Cruauté, voyeurisme, rapport humain impossible, dans le cadre d’une émission télévisée dernier cri ; voici l’atmosphère du dernier roman d’Amélie Nothomb…

Why learn a Foreign Language?

English is celebrated as the language of global corporate management, the Internet, youth culture and science. At the same time, there appears to be a crisis in foreign language learning amongst...

August Book selection

Un merveilleux recueil de récits de voyages et d'expériences de vie à glisser d'urgence dans ses bagages...

Feedback on First ever ''Fête de la Musique'' in London

FranceInLondon has asked its members to give their feedback about the first ever Fête de la musique in London. The 2 best reviews were selected ...One in English and one in French. Just to be fair!

The last Mitterrand (Le promeneur du Champs de Mars)

In 1995, during his second 7-year term in office, Mitterrand (Michel Bouquet) is dying of prostate cancer. He has asked, Antoine Moreau (Jalil Lespert), a young journalist to write his memoirs.

July Books

Four people about to commit suicide end up unexpectedly, at the same time, on the roof of a building on New Year's Eve! (...)

June books selection

June books selection

May 2005 book selection

May 2005 book selection

April books selection

A selection of Books to read in April put together by the La Page bookshop in South Kensington.

The Chorus - A film rating not really justified

More than 8.5 million people have seen the Chorus and it has received many Bafta and Academy award nominations. Everyone from 4 to 97 has loved it and yet the British and the Americans have...

What to read this winter?

Winter: The time when the bookshelves creak under the weight of literary gifts which cover such fascinatingly depressing topics as 101 things to do before I die? or Trinny and Susannah's What not...

A selection of books for buying in France

As more British people are looking for a house in France, a myriad of books have appeared on the market to guide people in making choices

'Vive la France' or is it 'Vive l'Angleterre'?

Over the last few months, the media have suddenly realised that the Brits were not the only ones leaving their country to live abroad. No, the French were doing it to...

Look At Me by Agnes Jaoui

Lolita (Marilou Berry) is 20 years old, over-weight and under-confident. Like all 'children', she is desperate for attention and approval from her father Étienne (Jean-Pierre Bacri) who is divorced...

Selection of books by La Page Librairy

Suite française by Irène Nèmirovsky is this fall's litterary event

Results for Favourite French Film voted by Londoners

Discover the results of the online vote and more...

All on your bike on 22nd September

This is the day where you can really contribute to make your city a better place.

Books recommended by La Page librairy

Three books from Japanese authors, a fantastic thriller, two books for the young ones, and a must-have ccooking book. Come and discover them!

One of a kind

Meet the founder of the most unusual music school in London

Four-star performance at the Everyman Cinema

The Hampstead picture house where the clientele feel so at home that they forget what they came for...

A Tati's retrospective at the NFT in August

The NFT will screen a retrospective of Jacques Tati films, including shorts and TV appearances, from 1st August 2003. Monsieur Hulot's Holiday, a hit in France, ....

Where to celebrate the 14th of July (Bastille Day)

If you feel like celebrating Bastille Day the French way, there are few choices available, but great food, music and disco dancing ...(in French)

Enough is enough : fed up with parking fines abuse!

Do Councils really have the interest of the public in mind?

Confidences Trop Intimes by Patrice Leconte

a write-up about the film Confidences Trop Intimes by Patrice Leconte

The 2004 Cannes Film Festival

The Italian actress, Laura Morante, presented the opening ceremony. The first film shown was `La Mauvaise Education' of the Espagnol director, Pedro Almodovar.

Not on the Lips by Alain Resnais

Gilberte Valandray (Sabine Azéma) married her first husband (Lambert Wilson), an American called Eric Thomson, during a stay in the US.

The books of the month by La Page librairy

A selection of 5 must-read books by La Page librairy

Spring Ball in Paris

"Paris is crazy with joy/when Spring arrives /It's the illegitimate child/The favourite/and Paris writes his name on the walls/ Spring Bal like a heart on a tree/ engraved on a stone " Jacques...

The Rise of French Club Football?

Arsene Wenger, Gerard Houillier, Thierry Henry and Patrick Vieira might have wallowed in most of the headlines, but there is another far less celebrated Frenchman who has exerted significant...

An interview of the directors of Dead End

Dead End by Jean-Baptiste Andréa & Fabrice Canépa. It is not everyday that a truly funny and nerve-shredding film comes about. Dead end is a must if you want to see something that will keep you...

Les liaisons dangereuses

A brand new production of Christopher Hampton's award-winning play "LES LIAISONS DANGEREUSES" has opened in London at the Playhouse Theatre.

A selection of French books by the Librairy La Page

A challenging selection of books in French...

A selection of nice books in English

Still remember your wonderful supper in a typical bistro in south of France. Can't find the recipe of the famous TarteTatin.

A view on the French Rugby team

In the 1999 World Cup, the French team played the most beautiful and the most memorable rugby, but came second. Four years on, in Australia...

A selection of books for the Youth Festival

A selection of books from the librairy La Page. You could meet the authors and illustrators during the Youth Festival from Thursday 19th till Saturday 22nd November 2003...

The Biography of Françoise Giroud by C.Ockrent

Following Francoise Giroud's death this year, Christine Ockrent published this biography on which they had worked together. Mme Giroud's life story is a page-turner and shows us the true...

Etre et Avoir : An exceptional film-documentary

Nicolas Philibert was able over the weeks he was there to capture some fascinating and also critical moments in the lives of these people and present them to us with simplicity...

Patrice Leconte - L'Homme du Train

The film was obviously created to fit in both Johnny Hallyday (a pop star in his own right) and Jean Rochefort (a fantastic actor). However, the combination turns out to be more successful than one...

French football players and two 12-year-old boys

A short story about two boys, one English, the other one French, both Arsenal footballers fans

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