Mireille Duvernay

PostED ON 14.10.2024

QUICK BIO: Mireille Duvernay has been a volunteer since the very first edition of the festival, making her an ‘O.G."! This retired lady also likes to put her ‘adopted’ city of Lyon in the limelight. Involved with the MJC (House of Youth and Culture) of the ‘Lumière’ Monplaisir district for over 30 years, she shares her sense of commitment with one of her favourite actresses: Jane Fonda, the 2018 Lumière Award laureate. Mireille received some valuable advice, in French, from the American actress: “Vous êtes si enthousiaste, continuez comme vous êtes !” (“You’re so enthusiastic, keep being the way you are!”)

MY FAVOURITE DIRECTORS: Bertrand Tavernier and Claude Lelouch! I love their actors and the themes they address. I'm delighted that this year’s Lumière Award recipient is Isabelle Huppert: I've always admired her for her charisma and elegance!

THE MOVIE THEATRE WHERE I DISCOVERED THE CINEMA: The community centre of Frontenaud, I must have been 10 years old. The film being shown was White Mane by Albert Lamorisse.

MY FAVOURITE MOVIE: The Clockmaker by Bertrand Tavernier because it also puts Lyon in the spotlight!

WHY I VOLUNTEER: Since retiring, I decided to get more involved in volunteering. It's important for me to give of my time, to help others and to feel useful. I'm thrilled to be able to contribute to the festival - it's an event you can't afford to miss!

MY TASKS AT THE FESTIVAL: Preparing snacks for children during the family screening at the Halle Tony-Garnier, and welcoming visitors to the Hangar, the photo gallery and the Village. 

 Interviewed by Laura Lépine

© Laura Lépine