v2024.03.10

The films of Richard Linklater (and perhaps any film, any artwork, any city) can be explored through a lens of change over time, whether the span is nine innings, a day, a romance, or twelve years. We invite you to join this Austin Film Society Delegation, to experience a springtime cinematic journey to Paris and to Austin’s Sister City, Angers. This tour will be a unique opportunity to join in celebration and support of the Austin Film Society, the Austin-Anger sister city relationship, and Richard Linklater on the world stage. The tour aligns with the Linklater retrospective organized by Angers’ 400 Blows Cinema (Cinémas Les 400 Coups), featuring a special appearance by Richard, who will also visit and dine with our group. Immerse yourself in the world of French New Wave cinema with a hoped-for visit to the Paris set of Richard’s latest film, a compelling dramatization of the Nouvelle Vague movement, focusing on the creation of Jean-Luc Godard’s iconic 1959 film “A Bout de Souffle” (“Breathless”). Beyond the cinematic experiences, the tour will also delve into Angers’ rich history, art, and culture, showcasing its majestic castles, illustrious tapestries, and a food and cultural scene that mirrors its deep past and vibrant present.

View the Variety article "Richard Linklater Hopes to Direct a French-Language New Wave Film Shot in Paris" published 10/10/23

Tour dates: APRIL 23-28, 2024 (Come Early/Stay Late Options Encouraged!)

Our journey begins in Paris, the heart of French cinema, with a planned visit to Richard’s film set, subject to production schedules.

DRAFT ITINERARY

(On this itinerary, B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, C=Cocktails, and D=Dinner includeD)

Monday, April 22- the day before…

We recommend you give yourself a little bit of time to adjust, settle in, explore a little by arriving the day before. We’re glad to arrange another night at the hotel! (additional costs apply)

TUESDAY, APRIL 23rd The First Day- MEALS: C, D

• Our activities start in Paris, Check in at Hotel Adèle & Jules. Time to explore the city…perhaps the spectacular “Sculpting the Senses” exhibition by Dutch fashion designer Iris van Herpen, or the newly-opened celebration of digital art pioneer Vera Molnar at the Centre Pompidou. Welcome cocktails and dinner near our hotel. (TBA)

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 24th - MEALS: L, D

• Free time to explore Paris, such as destination sites from the history of French cinema. Exclusive studio visit and interaction with film professionals involved with Richard Linklater’s newest project.

THURSDAY, APRIL 25th - Meals: C, D

• Train from Paris to Angers

• Angers Hotel Check-in at Hotel D'Anjou

• Explore the Chateau d'Angers, a symbol of the medieval era, famous for housing the magnificent Apocalypse Tapestry.

• Angers City Hall VIP Cocktails followed by Dinner at Restaurant Odorico celebrating local cuisine.

FRIDAY, APRIL 26th - Meals: B, L, C, D

• Morning: Hotel Breakfast

• Discover Fontevraud-l'Abbaye, the largest surviving monastic city from the Middle Ages, known for its historical richness and the resting place of Plantagenet monarchs.

• Visit a vineyard in Saumur (likely Maison Bouvet Ladubay) including a guided tour and wine tasting experience,

• Visit Hopital Saint-Jean, a remarkable example of medieval hospital architecture, now a center for contemporary tapestry and a testament to Angers' historical significance in this art form.

• Lunch and Cocktails and Dinner (TBA)

SATURDAY, APRIL 27th - Meals: B, C, D

• Morning: Hotel Breakfast

• Optional day activities in Angers include visiting the Chateau du Plessis Bourre, the Chateau du Brissac, Galerie David, the Musée des Beaux-Arts, Jardin des Plantes, Cathedral of Saint Maurice, and enjoying a promenade along the Maine River.

• Lunch: On your own

• We will join Rick as special guests for the evening at the 400 Blows Cinema (Cinémas Les 400 Coups in French) for the Richard Linklater Retrospective, and hear him speak about French cinema, its role in his career, and current project.

• Cocktails and Finale Dinner with Rick and leaders of the cinema community.

SUNDAY, APRIL 28th - Meals: B

• Morning: Hotel Breakfast

• End of Tour: Train to Paris and fly home (or extend your stay)

Tour Highlights & What’s Included

• Accommodations in Paris and Angers.

• Access to Linklater Paris film set (depending on the production schedule)

• Gastronomical meals and unique dining experiences.

• Engagements with local culture and history through guided tours

• Attendance with Richard at the Linklater Retrospective film screening event at the 400 Blows Cinema (Cinémas Les 400 Coups) in Angers

What's Included

• Five night accommodations (based on double occupancy; single rooms can be arranged with supplement)

• Paris - Anger Round Trip TGV Train Tickets, Premiere Classe

• Meals as indicated on itinerary

• Museum entrance fees

• Guided tours

• Linklater Retrospective film screening event and celebration dinner

What’s Not Included

• Flights to/from Paris

• Travel & Medical Insurance

• Personal Expenses

• Additional Hotel Nights

The total French portion cost of this experience ( lodging, transportation, meals, guides, entrance fees, film retrospective attendance, etc) is $5,000 per guest (double occupancy). A hotel allowance can be subtracted for those who wish to provide their own accommodations in Paris and/or Angers.

The maximum number of participants is ten.

Payment in full due date: 15 March 2024

A $750 single supplement charge will be added for those who require a private solo hotel room

* itinerary subject to change according to unforeseen circumstances / opportunities. On this itinerary, B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, C=Cocktails, and D=Dinner included. For cancellations after payment, partial refunds may be available depending on recoverable expenses at the time