ÉCU-The European Independent Film Festival

By Ed Millar

September – the month of the rentrée, the end of the congés annuelles and the end of sheer self indulgence, right? Not necessarily. If you have a little bit of free time to spare, why not prolong your summer by enjoying yourself with ÉCU’s recommendations for September?
Even if you haven’t read the quirky, best-selling book of the same name, you’re bound to love Freakonomics’, one of this month’s most remarkable documentaries. Released on September 14th, the film is made up of six mini-documentaries which explore different socio-economic phenomena, giving a fascinating and often humorous insight into the world around us. 

Costume enthusiasts, fashion-lovers or anyone looking for a truly innovative way of examining cinema should head over to the Forum Des Images this month for their cycle on ‘Des Habits et des Hommes’. The series examines the messages communicated by male costume and clothes in cinema, and includes a huge variety of more than 120 films, guaranteeing something for everyone. The cycle runs from 14th-30th September with something on nearly every night. For the full programme visit http://www.forumdesimages.fr/fdi/Cycles/Des-habits-et-des-hommes/(offset)/0
The middle of September marks one of the most exciting weekends in Paris for the whole year. For one weekend only, the ‘Journées du Patrimoine’ take place all over France, allowing the public free reign over areas of monuments and buildings of interest not usually accessible. If you've ever wanted to get behind the scenes at some of cinemas most prestigious places, now is your chance. Lines can be long and patience is a must, but as all events are free, this is a special weekend not to be missed. Full details announced at www.journeesdupatrimoine.culture.fr/
Lovers of the ‘Pink Panther’ and other classic Hollywood comedies should be first it line for the Blake Edwards season at the Cinémathèque. Edwards is one of the most prolific directors of his genre and the programme of films being shown illustrates why. Kicking off in late August with the iconic ‘Victor Victoria’, this season will have something for everyone, from Edwards’ super-fans to new-comers alike. Cinémathèque, 51 Rue de Bercy 75012 Paris
This September, yet another exciting cinematic event is coming to Paris. From 2nd-4th September at Cinéma La Clef, The ‘African Diaspora International Film Festival’ presents a diverse mix of films which explore the untold stories of people of African descent and Indigenous people all over the world. Highlights include the opening film ‘Besouro’ which tells the story of Besouro Mangangà, a rebel slave who fought for the rights of black people in Brazil in the 1920s. Cinéma La Clef , 34 rue Daubenton 75005 Paris