Filmfest DC Opening Night: Widow Clicquot

Synopsis: Set in France during the Napoleonic Wars, Thomas Napper’s film tells the true story of Barbe-Nicole Ponsardin, the “Grande Dame of Champagne,” otherwise known as Veuve Clicquot. At the age of 20, she became Madame Clicquot after marrying the son of a winemaking family. Though their marriage was arranged, a timeless love blossomed between Barbe-Nicole and her poetic, unconventional, and erratic husband, François.

In the weeds after her spouse’s untimely death, and a mother to Clémentine, Barbe-Nicole maintained her love and fascination with François’ avant-garde experiments. Named Veuve (the French word for widow), at age 27, she was determined to protect her family’s legacy and boldly challenged men — as well as the state — set on stripping her of her vineyards.

This event is made possible thanks to the support of TV5Monde and is organized in partnership with FilmFest.

About the Festival: Every year, the Washington, DC International Film Festival features many new and exciting films from across the globe, including from local filmmakers. This year, the festival returns with a fervor that reflects a collective love for films. The heart of the festival has always been driven by its attendees’ vibrant energy, each of whom has a unique perspective and a shared passion for films. The DC Filmfest celebrates the spirit of community and connection with this year’s edition. Each film has been selected for its artistic merit and its power to transport, enlighten, entertain, and remind the audience of the profound way artworks can impact our lives and the world.

Security Rules: Each person attending the event must have a ticket registered in their name and a government-issued ID matching the name on the reservation in order to enter the Embassy.  Print tickets are not required. Due to strict security measures, please arrive on time and allow for extra time for security screenings.  Tickets will be available for sale at the door.