The Neuchâtel International Fantastic Film Festival (NIFFF) is thrilled to unveil FOREVER YOUNG, a special program of its 23rd edition (July 5-13). This program is organized in partnership with Pro Senectute Arc Jurassien. Festivalgoers are invited to explore themes of aging, personal mortality, and the societal and psychological impacts of our obsession with perpetual youth through the screening of three iconic films.
WHAT’S WRONG WITH GROWING OLD?
The FOREVER YOUNG program focuses on ageism – examining the depiction of old age and societal pressures against aging. The festival aims to spotlight two prevalent issues visible in both cinema and everyday life: the tendency to overlook seniors and the diminishing perceived relevance of individuals as they age. FOREVER YOUNG presents a chance to reaffirm the worth of all individuals, regardless of age, using a unique blend of humor and somberness that only fantastic films can deliver.
In his 1962 eerie, claustrophobic thriller, WHAT EVER HAPPENED TO BABY JANE?, Robert Aldrich delves into themes of exploitation and predation, along with pervasive sexist and misogynistic attitudes, through the sinister story of a feud between two once-celebrated sisters. The film presents aging as a harsh reality and is credited with unintentionally pioneering the hagsploitation genre. It showcases a riveting confrontation between Bette Davis and Joan Crawford, whose real-life rivalry mirrored their onscreen conflict. This film stands as a stark reminder of Hollywood’s harsh treatment of women, reflecting a misguided belief that their value diminishes with age.
Synopsis :Child star Baby Jane’s career takes a dramatic turn as her initial success diminishes, overshadowed by her sister Blanche’s rising popularity. An in-depth look at cruelty and sadism between two legendary actresses.
WHAT EVER HAPPENED TO BABY JANE?
Robert Aldrich, US, 1962
Trailer
© 1985 Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation. All rights reserved.
Infused with the characteristic optimism of the 1980s, Ron Howard’s COCOON (1985) depicts a group of retirees in Florida who undergo extraordinary rejuvenation. This sci-fi comedy challenges societal perceptions of youth and old age and reevaluates the boundaries of human lifespan and mortality.
Synopsis :A group of wealthy, puckish Floridian retirement home residents frequently trespass into the seemingly abandoned swimming pool next door. Unbeknownst to them, mysterious cocoons in the water make them feel younger with each and every swim…
In Fruit Chan‘s horror noir DUMPLINGS (2004), the obsession with eternal youth drives women to extreme measures to combat aging. The director skillfully uses his characters’ desperation to craft a dark and refined satire.
Synopsis :With the help of a friend, the youth-obsessed Madam Li discovers special dumplings that restore her youth with every bite. What is the true price of such a terrifying miracle?
SAVE THE DATE
Festival Pass – Early Bird offer: Tuesday, May 14
Full program & online ticketing: Thursday, June 20