Top 10 Classic Holiday Films to Watch in 2024 – Discover the Must-See Cinematic Gems!

Des classiques pour les fêtes

As the holiday season approaches, Cinematek is all set to keep the cinematic magic alive with a spectacular lineup of classic films to enjoy throughout the year-end festivities. From the legendary works of Alfred Hitchcock to the enchanting creations of Jacques Demy, Georges Mélies, Federico Fellini, and Stanley Donen, there’s something for every film enthusiast to indulge in.

Artist in focus: Johan van der Keuken
02.01 > 27.02.2025
In collaboration with Sabzian
With the financial support of the Brussels-Capital Region
Supported by Stichting ANV, KU Leuven, and Cinergie

Cinematek presents a captivating retrospective of the renowned Dutch documentarist Johan van der Keuken (1938-2001) in collaboration with the film critique platform Sabzian. Delve into the world of Van der Keuken’s profound documentaries, exploring his longer and more ambitious films chronologically. Alongside the film screenings, a special exhibition showcasing the bond between Van der Keuken and Brussels adds an extra layer of depth to the retrospective. Don’t miss the enlightening masterclass on Van der Keuken’s cinema by filmmaker and educator Thierry Odeyn on February 11.

Diary
02.01 – 19:00 /// 06.01 – 21:00
Towards the South
28.01 – 21:15 /// 07.02 – 19:00
Extended Holidays
26.02 – 19:00 /// 28.02 – 20:00

Le Dive Italiano
08.01 > 19.02.2025
In collaboration with RITCS and the Istituto italiano di cultura

For the third consecutive year, Cinematek embarks on a journey through Italian cinema history with a series of films and insightful discussions. Let Wouter Hessels (professor at RITCS and INSAS) and Claudio Serafini (philosopher and Italian professor at the Istituto Italiano di Cultura) guide you through the era of Italian cinema divas post-World War II. From Alida Valli to Claudia Cardinale, the iconic actresses and their impact on Italian cinema will be explored in depth through engaging conferences.

Senso
Introduction: 08.01 – 18:00
Film Screening: 08.01 – 19:00
The Gold of Naples
Introduction: 15.01 – 18:00
Film Screening: 15.01 – 19:00
The Drama of Jealousy
Introduction: 19.02 – 18:00
Film Screening: 19.02 – 19:00

Full Review

The Story So Far:
Immerse yourself in the mesmerizing world of classic cinema with Cinematek’s diverse lineup of iconic films and insightful exhibitions. From the gripping documentaries of Johan van der Keuken to the enchanting Italian cinema classics, every movie buff is in for a treat this holiday season.

Detailed Review:

• Johan van der Keuken Retrospective: Explore the captivating world of Dutch documentarist Johan van der Keuken through a comprehensive retrospective that delves into his most profound works. From his early documentaries to his ambitious projects, this showcase offers a unique insight into the filmmaker’s visionary storytelling.
• Le Dive Italiano: Step into the golden era of Italian cinema with Cinematek’s exploration of iconic films and the impact of legendary actresses on the industry. Discover the cinematic brilliance of stars like Sophia Loren, Monica Vitti, and more through engaging discussions and film screenings.

  Conclusion
  As the year draws to a close, Cinematek invites you to celebrate the magic of cinema with a lineup of timeless classics and insightful retrospectives. From the thought-provoking documentaries of Johan van der Keuken to the captivating allure of Italian cinema, there’s a cinematic experience waiting for every film lover at Cinematek.

  Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What can viewers expect from the Johan van der Keuken retrospective?
     • Dive into the world of Dutch documentarist Johan van der Keuken through a comprehensive showcase of his works, offering a unique insight into his cinematic brilliance.
  2. Who are the key figures leading the discussions on Italian cinema divas at Cinematek?
     • Wouter Hessels and Claudio Serafini, experts in the field, will guide viewers through the iconic actresses of Italian cinema post-World War II.
  3. When is the masterclass on Johan van der Keuken’s cinema taking place?
     • The masterclass, conducted by Thierry Odeyn, is scheduled for February 11, offering a deeper understanding of Van der Keuken’s cinematic vision.
  4. Which iconic Italian actresses will be discussed during the Le Dive Italiano series?
     • Actresses like Sophia Loren, Monica Vitti, and Claudia Cardinale will be among the divas of Italian cinema explored in-depth during the series.
  5. How can viewers participate in the film screenings and discussions at Cinematek?
     • Simply check the schedule and join the screenings and conferences to immerse yourself in the world of classic cinema.
  6. Are there any additional events or exhibitions accompanying the film screenings at Cinematek?
     • Yes, there will be a special exhibition on the bond between Johan van der Keuken and Brussels, adding a unique dimension to the retrospective experience.
  7. What makes the films of Alfred Hitchcock, Jacques Demy, and Federico Fellini stand out in the lineup?
     • Each filmmaker brings a distinct style and storytelling approach, offering viewers a diverse range of cinematic experiences to enjoy.
  8. How can viewers access more information about the Cinematek screenings and events?
     • Visit the official Cinematek website or platform for detailed schedules, ticket information, and updates on upcoming screenings and retrospectives.
  9. Are there any special screenings or events planned for the holiday season at Cinematek?
     • Yes, Cinematek keeps its doors open throughout the festive season, offering a rich lineup of classic films and engaging discussions to celebrate the magic of cinema.
  10. What are the key highlights viewers can look forward to in the upcoming Le Dive Italiano series?
      • The Le Dive Italiano series will explore the impact of iconic Italian actresses post-World War II, shedding light on their contributions to Italian cinema and cultural heritage.

        Tags: classic cinema, Johan van der Keuken, Italian cinema, cinematic divas, film retrospective, film screenings, film discussions, Cinematek.