French Films at the 2026 New York International Children’s Film Festival
Festival, Film
My Life in Versailles (© 2025 – Films Grand Huit, Mélusine Productions, Xilam, Miyu Productions )
From February 28 – March 15, explore world cinema without leaving New York City at the New York International Children’s Film Festival.
Showcasing the best new films for ages 3-18, the New York International Children’s Film Festival presents premieres, special events, Q&As with filmmakers, a lineup of short films spanning the globe, and a great selection of French films and shorts.
Use the code ALBERTINE2K26 to receive a $2 discount on tickets. Explore the full program here, and learn more about the French feature films participating in the festival below.
French Feature Films
My Life in Versailles (La vie de château, mon enfance à Versailles)
After her parents’ passing, eight-year-old Violet goes to live with her uncle, Regis, a gruff maintenance worker at the Palace of Versailles. Despite a rocky start, Violet and Regis learn to live and face life’s challenges together. Through complex friendships, first loves, and a Christmas trip to Violet’s grandparents, they slowly create a new life rich in discoveries and tender moments in the heart of Versailles.
Directors: Clémence Madeleine-Perdrillat and Nathaniel H’limi
Animation, 2025, 78 min., France-Luxembourg
Recommended ages: 7+
U.S. Premiere – Audience Spotlight.
Get Tickets Now !
March 8, 2:30pm | SVA Theatre (+ Q&A with filmmakers)
March 14, 1:00pm | SVA Theatre
(In French with English subtitles)
In 1811, Mary Anning, an inquisitive and tenacious twelve-year-old girl, spends her days searching for fossils. Her father passed on this passion to her, but her life suddenly changes when he disappears, leaving behind a mysterious drawing and a struggling family. Determined to help her mother and brother, Mary tries to uncover the secret of the drawing. She will discover so much more than just fossils: friendships, adventures, and the very start of paleontology.
Director: Marcel Barelli
Animation, 2025, 72 min., Belgium – Switzerland
Recommended ages: 8+
In French with English subtitles. U.S. Premiere – Featuring a Q&A with a paleontologist.
Get Tickets Now !
March 1, 1:00pm | SVA Theatre
March 7, 11:30am | Scandinavia House (+ Q&A with a paleontologist)
Sketches on Ice – © 2026 Les Films du Préau
Short Films
Sketches on Ice (Esquisses sur glace)
It snowed! Lou and Marius are building a snowman, but Mom calls them back home. Outside, the snowman has moved.
Director Marion Auvin 2025, 4 min
Animation, 2025, 4 min., Belgium-France
No Dialogue – New York Premiere
Screening in Short for Tots
Get tickets Now !
Feb 28, 11:00am | SVA Theatre
March 8, 10:45am | SVA Theatre (Sensory Friendly)
March 14, 11:30am | IFC Center
