Film Forum

4:45 & 8:50 ONLY

The wild, mountainous peaks of Tibet – a frigid, gorgeous, inhospitable world that resembles a lunar landscape – are inhabited by antelope, soaring falcons, herds of yak, lumbering bears, and the diminutive but forbidding Pallas’ cat. But for world-renowned wildlife photographer Vincent Munier and his intrepid companion, novelist/geographer Sylvain Tesson, the Holy Grail is the majestic, elusive snow leopard. Their adventurous sleuthing (making themselves as inconspicuous as possible) is punctuated by intimate conversations about the existential nature of their quest. For anyone who has marveled at the infinite mystery and beauty of their pet cat, THE VELVET QUEEN is a not-to-be-missed, swoon-worthy experience. With original music by Warren Ellis and Nick Cave.

2021    92 MINS.    FRANCE    IN FRENCH WITH ENGLISH SUBTITLES
OSCILLOSCOPE LABORATORIES

FREE WITH YOUR TICKETS (While supplies last)

Snow Leopard Trust ornaments were handmade by communities participating in Snow Leopard Enterprises, a conservation-focused program that helps create sustainable economic opportunities for families in snow leopard habitats. The program fosters an understanding and tolerance of snow leopards helping to ensure a future for these threatened big cats. Find out how you can help the snow leopard at snowleopard.org.

Reviews

“THE VELVET QUEEN is a godsend for lovers of observational documentaries, slow cinema and wild nature. The original score, composed by Warren Ellis and featuring Nick Cave, helps to build up the ‘philosophical spirit’ of the film, leaving great space for the viewers to develop their own reflections or to simply enjoy a moment of quiet while witnessing stills or moving images of striking beauty.”
– Davide Abbatescianni, Cineuropa

“Present[s] one awe-inspiring image after another of beautiful bharals seemingly defying gravity as they climb up the sides of hills and dust storms that come to overwhelm the valley. Both an amazing piece of escapism and incredibly relatable. Amiguet get[s] at something even scarcer and more exquisite than what the two men are chasing.” 
– Stephen Saito, The Moveable Fest