In a world defined by the flow of people, goods and cultures, many contemporary French films explore the multicultural nature of today's France through language. From rival lingua francas such as English to socio-politically marginalised languages such as Arabic or Kurdish, multilingual characters in these films exploit their knowledge of multiple languages, and offer counter-perspectives to dominant ideologies of the role of linguistic diversity in society. Decentring France is the first substantial study of multilingual film in France. Unpacking the power dynamics at play in the dialogue of eight emblematic films, this book argues that many contemporary French films take a new approach to language and power, showing how even the most historically-maligned languages can empower their speakers. This book offers a unique insight to academics and students alike, into the place of language and power in French cinema today.

Gemma King is Lecturer in French Studies at the Australian National University. Her research explores language, culture, violence, and power in French and Francophone contexts. Specifically, she works on the representation of linguistic and cultural difference in French film, focusing on the relationship between multilingualism and social power. She ais particularly interested in films which portray marginalised cultures and the potential of languages other than French, even the historically disenfranchised, to empower their speakers. She also researches the interplay between power and violence in cinema more broadly, and the representation of multiculturalism in French museums.

Light refreshments provided. This launch is free and open to the public.