La minute francaise

Experience French Cinema at the Melbourne French Film Festival!

The 36th Alliance Française French Film Festival is coming to Melbourne from March 5 – April 9, 2025. A must-watch this year is All Stirred Up! (Tous toqués!), a heartwarming comedy about a customs officer, a French chef, and a young girl determined to win a cooking competition. Packed with humour, food, and charm, this film is perfect for all ages!

Catch it at Palace Cinemas across Melbourne. Don’t miss this chance to experience French culture on the big screen! Visit the festival’s website for session times.

French Word/Expression of the Week: À la bourre

Meaning: À la bourre is an informal French expression that means "running late" or "in a rush." It’s commonly used in everyday conversation when someone is behind schedule.

Examples:

Désolé, je suis à la bourre ! → “Sorry, I’m running late!”
Il est toujours à la bourre le matin. → “He’s always in a rush in the morning.”

Origin: The phrase comes from old French slang, where bourre referred to padding or stuffing (like in upholstery). Over time, être à la bourre evolved to mean being "stuffed" with too many things to do, leading to the modern sense of being behind schedule.

Cultural Note: French people often say à la bourre in casual situations, like arriving late to a meeting with friends. However, in formal settings (like a job interview), you’d be better off saying Je suis en retard instead!

Eclair Bakery: A Taste of France in Hampton

Nestled on Hampton Street, Eclair Bakery is a must-visit for lovers of authentic French pastries. From buttery croissants to exquisite eclairs, every bite reflects traditional French craftsmanship.

The cozy ambiance and friendly staff make it a perfect spot for breakfast or a light lunch. Regulars rave about the quality, calling it an "exceptional patisserie experience."

For convenience, you can also order online at eclairbakery.com.au. Whether dining in or taking away, Eclair Bakery brings a slice of Paris to Melbourne’s Bayside!