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Best Upcoming Releases Of 2017

2017-12-31 No Comments

A lot is happening in the film industry here in France and the world over as 2017 rolls on. If you are one of the many movie enthusiasts in Paris, here are the some of the best flicks coming to big screens this year.

American Made

Available From: September 13, 2017

Tom Cruise is back in American Made, saving the world once again – let’s wait and see whether his signature runs will come in handy here! See how it all unfolds in this action-packed movie based on a true story of pilot Barry Seal, who was recruited by CIA and ended up becoming a smuggler for the Medellin drug cartel.

Blade Runner 2049

Available From: October 4, 2017

Blade Runner 2049 is probably the most anticipated film of this year. The project was dead in the water until Harrison Ford signed up followed by director Denis Villeneuve casting Ryan Gosling. Get to a cinema near you to see what happens when Officer K, a new blade runner, discovers a long-buried secret that could bring chaos to society. He also finds a clue on where former blade runner Rick, who went missing more than 30 years ago, could be.

Thor: Ragnarok

Available From: October 25, 2017

Taika Waititi is directing here, where Thor is racing against time to prevent his home world from being destroyed by the powerful Hela. His Asgardian civilization is under threat too. Thor: Ragnarok screams fun. The director has promised to bring back the true 80s vibe of Thor.

Red Sparrow

Available From: November 8, 2017

Will Jennifer Lawrence manage to pull off the accent this time round? We’ll just have to wait and see as she plays a Russian agent who, in order to achieve her goals, must consider betraying her country. Make sure you watch this captivating film where J-Law once again reunites with Francis Lawrence.

Murder On The Orient Express

Available From: November 29, 2017

This is one of Agatha Christie’s greatest detective stories and the ending is truly one-of-a-kind. This marvelous act features Kenneth Branagh as mustache-twiddling Poirot with Johnny Depp, Daisy Ridley and Judi Dench as his fellow guests on the beautiful Orient Express. You can’t afford to Miss Murder on the Orient Express in late November.

Paddington 2

Available From: December 6, 2017

Paddington can’t afford to buy a unique pop-up book for his Aunt Lucy for her 100th birthday, so he takes on an array of odd jobs. When the book gets stolen, the gang take on the even bigger task of catching the thief. Will it all end happily ever after?

Make sure to catch all the action as it unfolds and before we bid 2017 adieu, you can also see another list of best upcoming releases for 2017 as compiled by our friends at Thrillist.

Fashion

French Women Under A Lot Of Pressure To Look Beautiful

2017-12-13 No Comments

When you land in the City of Lights you will be awestruck to gaze upon a place where almost everything seems to have fallen in place. You’ll find structures depicting unparalleled architectural ingenuity, mouth-watering food, and fashion at its best the overall charming culture and above all, the beautiful women. What you may not know is what the beholders of such beauty have endured.

Paris, and by extension France, has been known as the fashion capital of the world, the City of Lights and a plethora of other pseudonyms, due to the creativity of its people and their love of opulence. It then goes without saying that, in a country that is famed for fashion and designs, an immense amount of pressure is put on its female population to “look the part”, as it were.

French beauty routine — A French woman doing her daily beauty routine.

The quintessential vision of French beauty has been referred by some writers as effortless. They are expected to look stunning and put a lot of effort on it, while still maintaining an easy, natural and understated style. Furthermore, it’s not negotiable; the standards have already been set. On the other hand, you may indeed look at it as effortless, since French women themselves have become accustomed to looking this way and it’s now embedded in their blood – a French woman simply has a natural flair for beauty.

French women will be the first to admit that the routine and constant practice to perfect the art of maintaining personal beauty is tough going. They equate beauty to sports where you become a pro after constant practice and hard work.

French makeup artist — A french girl looking great with her huge makeup collection.

French women will tell you their routine starts early; they are taught art and art history early in school. They start being exposed to paintings, architecture, sculptures, beauty, etc. early in life. In fact, parents pass it down to their kids. Even when going out to play with peers, young girls have to go through a detailed beautification process. Young girls’ attire is prepared well in advance to fit the following day’s event and it’s the mother’s duty to make sure their daughters look the part. Once honed, beauty never departs the French woman, even in her later life; you’ll commonly see ladies of 80+ years taking great care of their skin and posture.

Women from this part of the world are also taught not to broadcast what they do to look good to the world. On the other side, the fact that they are taught to take care of themselves for themselves from a tender age, they grow up knowing what’s best for their skin, hair and body, together with the latest fashion trends, which makes it easy for them to handle their own personal beauty, thereby lowering the cost.

But it is not all as glamorous as it looks. Some have come to admit the pressure to look ideal – an ideal most women have not defined for themselves – is sometimes unbearable. One woman admitted to having suffered greatly for beauty; the pressure starts from home and extends out into wider society. She narrates how she had to endure criticism from her mother any time she wanted to be herself and had to revert to the long, arduous process of complying with beauty standards in order to fit in with general society.

So, you may be idolizing a French woman across the street, but you never know what goes behind the scene, or the tears that have been shed for them to look so glamorous.

Golfing

The Evian Championship – Bringing Together The World’s Best Female Golfers

2017-11-27 No Comments

Every year, the world’s finest female golfers get the chance to put their skills to good use in the LPGA tournaments happening in various corners of the world. To be precise, there are five major LPGA championships today. The tours were founded in the fifties and have evolved several times since then, with the number of tours averaging two to three per year. That time is behind us now; currently there are five annual LPGA championship tours after the Evian Championship joined the league of the most coveted tournaments in women golf in 2013.The other four are the ANA Inspiration, U.S. Women’s Open, Women’s PGA Championship and Women’s British Open.

Prior to becoming the Evian Championship in 2013, the tournament used to be known as the Evian Masters and it was just a regular LPGA stop. By becoming the fifth LPGA tour championship, it has once again elevated France on the global map, being the only women’s major in continental Europe. It all started in 1994, when Antoine Ribond the founder and former president of Danone, together with his son, thought of creating a platform to showcase golf competitions on the Ladies European Tour (LET). It continued to feature as a major LET destination until 2000 when it became an official LPGA Tour event. The event continued on a growth trajectory with its prize money increasing accordingly. Currently, its purse holds $3.65 million, making it the second-richest in women’s golf after the US Women’s Open, which has prize money of $5 million.

The Evian Championship is held at the Evian Resort Golf Club in Evian-Les-Bains which is one of the most picturesque sceneries at the foot of the Evian Mountain. It has become commonplace for players to gush about the scenery as they stroll the course amid majestic views overlooking Lake Geneva. Suzann Petterson, who was the first major winner immediately after the contest was elevated to the Evian Championship in 2013, could not hold her jubilation at becoming the first winner in an event which she claimed was on the top of her bucket list. She gave her take on the scenery which she referred to as breathtaking, romantic and unique. She noted how it made her feel rejuvenated every time she awoke in the morning, to spend another day in a place surrounded by such stunningly beautiful topography.

The event used to take place from June to July but it was pushed back to September upon acquiring its new title, making it the last competition of its kind in the calendar year. This year, women champions are expected to battle it out between September 14th and 17th in the event that is expected to see more than 120 of the best women golfers participate. Last year it saw 120 players start it off, with only 72 surviving to the end. Normally the cut is set at 70 scores, and after the second round, those scoring 70 and below continue to participate in the remaining rounds, with the winner determined at the end of the tournament based on overall performance.

Those scoring above 70 are eliminated after the second round. Last year the competition took place between September 15th and 18th, where South Korean In Gee Chun won with 21 under par and took home more than $520,000 in prize money. She also set a new world record for the lowest score in a major tournament for both genders.

The Evian Championship continues to offer a one-of-a-kind platform for women golfers to showcase their skills on the world stage. Yet again, France features highly as a country of diverse possibilities and a top destination to shop, sport and be entertained.

Brands

Old French Brands Seeking New French Hands

2017-11-08 No Comments

There are many brands that continue to enter the market since the last century; France, with its deep-rooted culture and creativity is the place to find most of them. Some never managed to stand the test of time while others continue to make headlines as time goes on. Read on to see some of the old brands that have made it over the years and how they are evolving.

Hermès Since 1837

Thierry Hermes started this fashion house in the year 1837, originally making saddles and other equestrian products. History has it that his son Charles made the first Hermes bag which he intended to be used for carrying the main products, saddles. The official handbag as we know it today was first designed in 1922.

Since then, as fresh hands came into the business, so did new innovations; the Birkin bag and Kelly bags followed later which became some of the most successful and famous products made by Hermes. Hermes handbags are still sought after today due to their elegance.

Louis Vuitton Since 1854

Another brand where we can see new innovations as a result of fresh hands and eyes is Loius Vuitton. Started by Louis Vuitton in 1854 in a workshop where he made trunk and packaging materials, he progressed to making revolutionary trunks using canvas. Later his son George was to join where he made keep all, the first of their line of bags. What followed was Speedy, then Noe, Alma and the rest. Today Louis Vuitton is in 50 countries with over 460 stores.

Lanvin Since 1889

Jeanne Lavin started her career as a hat maker where she had her own atelier in Paris. Being a talented seamstress, she made very beautiful clothes for her daughter which caught the attention of the neighborhood elite. She could not disappoint this small group of fans after receiving requests to dress them and their children, and she started making copies. Eventually, her brand Lanvin started diversifying to mothers’ dresses as well and later to menswear, fur, and lingerie. The brand still maintains a high position in the fashion world and has transferred to various owners of late. For instance, Orcofi Group managed it until 1996 when it was sold to L’Oréal and later transferred to Shaw-Lan Wang in 2001.

Chanel Since 1909

Another old brand which has stood the test of time is Chanel. After the death of her mother, Gabrielle Chanel was taken to an orphanage where she was taught how to sew by the nuns. She would later use the skills she had learned to open her first store in 1910 where she started by making hats, before venturing into women’s clothing later on. Her revolutionary and timeless designs are still sought out today, even after the business fell into new French hands. Currently, Chanel is run by the grandsons of her partner Pierre Wertheimer, Alain and Gerard.

Yves Saint Laurent Since 1961

Another classic French brand is Yves Saint Laurent which was invented in 1961 and has seen various transformations through the ages. The brand is named after the founding artist Yves Saint Laurent who started his career in drawings at the early age of 17. When at fashion school he met Christian Dior, and was recruited to Dior’s fashion house where he worked for many years. He would later start his own fashion house in 1961 where he came up with the iconic brand ‘Le Smoking’. The famous jump suit and sheer blouse were to follow later.

The brand has come to take the name Saint Laurent as part of the changes that came into effect as management changed hands. The latest news is that in 2016, Anthony Vaccarello took over as creative director, succeeding Hedi Slimane.

Much is happening to old brands in France, but even though there could be a change of guard, the brands continue to trend high in the industry, defying the odds and keeping true to their French culture. You can also read further on the country’s best vintage clothing stores as defined by The Culture Trip.

Festivals

Unmissable Music Festivals In France This Summer

2017-10-21 No Comments

France is home to extravagant talent spread across fashion, art, music and countless other disciplines. When summer arrives, festival lovers descend on France to attend the many eclectic music festivals. Here is the list of must-attend summer music festivals.

Sakifo At Saint Piere

2^nd -4^th June 2017

From its inception in 2004, this three-day event is held across six different stages, celebrating all the different genres of music. This usually provides the perfect opportunity for artists and consumers of art to mingle. It’s the perfect time to celebrate both music and culture.

Hellfest At Clisson, Loire Atlantique

16^th -18th June 2017

If hard rock is your thing, you should definitely head to Clisson for three days where you will be treated to a variety of heavy metal music like you’ve never heard before. And if you are a beginner, you will be in the best place to learn what it means to love metal, as you come face-to-face with artists who have perfected their skills in the field.

Up to seven stages are live at any given moment and you can choose either to remain in one particular location, or to sample what’s happening from all the stages.

The dress code is usually wild and out of this world – prepare to be creative.

Nimes Festival At The Arena Of Nimes

20^th June -21^st July 2017

This is another festival that brings together rock and contemporary music lovers for one month. Held at the historic city of Nimes, close to 20 artists converge here to entertain and celebrate their art. This event has been held courtesy of the city of Nimes, in collaboration with FM Productions, since its inception in 1997.

Solidays At Paris

23^rd -25^th July 2017

The Solidays festival is one of a kind, from the huge crowd gathered to the cause being championed. I mean just that, because every year people have found it necessary to gather for entertainment, while still making it a cause to stand in solidarity in the fight against AIDS.

Close to 3,000 volunteers and 160 artists come to Paris every year to make this event happen, and it never disappoints, attracting over 150,000 revelers joining hands to make the event a success.

Garorock Festival At Marmande

30^th June -2^nd July 2017

Since 1997, lovers of rock and electronic music gather here for three days of performances, which start every day from noon and go on until the small hours of the following morning. Experienced artists and emerging talent come to this festival to showcase their creativity.

Main Square Festival In Arras, Vauban Citadel

30^th June -2^nd July 2017

This is another important three-day event which has been running since 2004. People converge at Vauban to celebrate rock, pop, hip-hop and electro, and with more than 40 concerts running over the course of the event, international and local artists come here to leave a mark.

Calvi On The Rocks In Calvi

30^th June -5^th July 2017

In Calvi, people gather for six days every year, to celebrate and appreciate culture – this year it won’t be different. Various activities including electronic music, artistic performances and Corsican traditions that are held in various places within the city, its beaches and citadel.

In the afternoons, you can experience blistering sets from the world’s top DJ’s on Calvi’s beaches, while in the evenings you could attend performances at the outdoor Theatre de Verdure or relax at the harbor.

Carcassonne Festival In Carcassonne

1^st -30^th July 2017

Big names in music like Elton John, Deep Purple and Indochine are known to entertain an eager crowd of close to 260,000 here at Carcassonne City. A perfect blend of local and international artists is made up of over 100 performers, who keep the electrified crowd on their toes, chanting their hearts out, while putting their best foot forward.

Performances are held at the famous La Fajeolle Main Stage, the Jean-Deschamps Theatre or at the Count’s Castle in the city.

Les Eurockéennes Festival In Sermamagny

6^th -9^th July 2017

I don’t think there is any outdoor event that can measure up to this one. Since 1989, this festival has never disappointed. It seems like everything has fallen into place to provide the 100,000+ party animals who attend this event an experience like no other. The beautiful location, which is only a short distance from Belfort and surrounded by hills and lakes, makes it the perfect place for those who treasure good times. Usually, there are four stages with live bands performing their hits, with all different genres of music well represented.

Terres Du Son In Monts

7^th -9^th July 2017

This out-of-town event is packaged to entertain and champion the protection of the environment and sustainable development. This does not mean that it’s short of great entertainment, because lovers of pop, reggae, rock and a mix of other types of music are left begging for more after enjoying over 72 hours of nothing but the best of modern music.

Francofolies In La Rochelle

12^th -16^th July 2017

This is a perfect opportunity for young talent to learn from experienced artists. The event, which is known to offer contemporary French songs and music, gives emerging artists a platform to showcase their talent and get advice and guidance from their peers. You mustn’t miss the opportunity to listen to what these new artists have to offer.

Beauregard Festival In Normandy

7^th -9^th July

Since 2009, Chateau de Beauregard comes alive with people flocking from all over Europe. Rock lovers cannot afford to miss the electrifying moments at this alternative festival, which brings together rock ‘n’ roll die-hards for an amazing three-day leg-shaking experience. This year I am told it will be a blast.

La Route Du Rock In Saint-Malo

17^th -20^th August 2017

Two places in Saint-Malo are a hive of activity every year when the world descends on them for a special demonstration of what independent music thinkers have to offer. In summer and winter each year, Fort Saint-Pere and Bon Secours Beach are the places to be. The special thing about this event is its unique theme of holding an open-minded musical festival, driven by creativity. Always full to capacity, people arrive here in droves to enjoy a one-of-a-kind festival like nothing they’ve ever experienced.

Rock En Seine In Saint Cloud

25^th -27^th August 2017

There has never been a better way to close the summer season than to see it out at Saint Cloud. Every year at the end of August, over 100,000 people gather in Paris with vigor, as if to thank the gods of summer. The energy experienced in this four-day event is out of this world. Popular French music comprising of pop, rock and electro is played in the historic gardens, as revellers from local and international communities gather to dance and enjoy nature.

Les Nuits De Nacre In Tulle

14^th -16^th August 2017

One of the instruments that has helped to shape the world of music is the accordion. France ensure this iconic instrument’s contribution won’t die out, by putting it on every corner of every street for four days, during which different genres of music fill the air. This is a crucial cultural event dedicated to the accordion, holding more than 90 concerts free of charge.

As you can see, its talent galore in France, and there are countless festivals where you can have a blast during summertime. These festivals happen every year, so if you missed out this year, don’t sweat it – next year is waiting for you!