“Les Furies” Roller Derby Comedy Surpasses $500,000 at the Quebec Box Office
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A heartwarming sports comedy, Les Furies, has quickly become a box office success in Quebec and New Brunswick, exceeding $500,000 in revenue just twelve days after its theatrical debut. The film, directed by Mélanie Charbonneau, resonates with audiences through its story of female empowerment and community spirit.
A Story of Resilience and Rebellion
Les Furies centers on a group of women who form an underground roller derby team in response to the removal of amateur women’s leagues from their arena. The film stars a talented ensemble cast including Gabrielle Côté, Anne-Élisabeth Bossé, france Castel, and Debbie Lynch-White. Charbonneau’s vision extends beyond simple entertainment; it’s a narrative rooted in protest and the reclaiming of space.
The Power of Collective Experience
According to a company release,Charbonneau emphasizes the powerful impact of experiencing the film in a communal setting. “What strikes me at each performance is the group effect,” she stated. “People leave with a smile, sometimes even a tear in their eye. We feel it: Les Furies turn something back on.” The director believes the film is best enjoyed with loved ones – family, friends, or partners – offering “a dose of energy that unites and feels good.”
Championing Quebecois Storytelling
Charbonneau also highlighted the importance of supporting local cinema. “as our neighbors to the south take up a lot of space, it becomes essential to continue telling our own stories,” she explained. “It is our culture, our identity, our world.” This sentiment underscores a growing movement to prioritize and celebrate Quebecois filmmaking.
Expanding reach and Unique Events
Currently, Les Furies is playing in 62 cinemas across Quebec and New Brunswick. Immina Films, the film’s distributor, has announced that it will remain exclusively in theaters for several months. On December 4, a unique event took place in 35 cinemas that allowed audience members to participate in a post-screening roller derby demonstration, while concurrently pursuing their craft, demonstrating the film’s ability to foster a unique and engaging audience experience.
The president of Immina Films, Patrick Roy, insisted in the same press release, “If you want to be part of the team, it’s in theaters!” Les Furies is proving to be more than just a film; it’s a cultural event that is uniting communities and celebrating the strength of women.