Film Screening: Cinémanuscrit—Kuessipan

Cinémanuscrit is the Alliance’s 2026/2027 film series exploring cinematic adaptations of Francophone literature.

In celebration of Native American Heritage Month, join us for our screening of Kuessipan, Myriam Verreault’s adaptation of Canadian-Innu author Naomi Fontaine’s novel of the same name.

Childhood friends Mikuan and Shaniss grow up together in Uashat and promise to stick by each other no matter what. However, when Mikuan falls in love with a white boy, their friendship becomes strained. 

Adapted from a collection of vignettes based on Fontaine’s experiences in Uashat, the Sept-Îles Innu community outside of Québéc, Kuessipan premiered at the 2019 Toronto Film Festival and received critical acclaim upon its release.

Guests will enjoy a complimentary glass of Louis Jadot Bourgogne and the chance to win a $50 gift certificate to the Sofitel Magnificent Mile’s très chic Le Bar.

Want to read the book before watching to movie? Check out Naomi Fontaine’s novel Kuessipanat the Brown Médiathèque!

Doors at 6:00 p.m. Screening at 6:30. Please enter via 54 W Chicago Ave. Non-alcoholic options will be available.

About the Author

Naomi Fontaine

Naomi Fontaine is a Canadian writer from Québéc and is considered one of the most prominent First Nations writers in contemporary francophone Canadian literature. A member of the Innu nation, her debut novel Kuessipan received an honorable mention at the 2012 Prix des cinq continents de la francophonie. 

Getting Here

The Alliance Française de Chicago is one block from the CTA Red line stop at Chicago Avenue. Best bus routes are the 22 on Clark and the 66 on Chicago Avenue. A Divvy station is located in front of the Chicago Ave entrance.

Parking Information

$10 for 12 hours at 100 W Chestnut St. Validation is available at reception.

Photography Notice

Please be advised that students, members, and attendees at cultural events or programs may be photographed, and these images may be used for marketing purposes.