Kalki Koechlin Stars in "Her Song" Premiering at Cinequest

“Her Song,” a French comedy-drama executive produced by Oscar-winning filmmaker James Ivory, is set to have its world premiere as the opening night selection of the Cinequest Film Festival on March 10, 2026, in San Jose, California. Directed by John M. Keller, the film features Indian cinema star Kalki Koechlin in her first French and American-accented English-speaking role. The cast includes French actor Eléa Clair, Zach Grenier, Thais Sobreira, Marie-Christine Adam, Julien Jacob, and Christophe Grundmann, who recently appeared in the Oscar-nominated short “Two People Exchanging Saliva.”

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Set in a secluded village in the French Pyrenees, “Her Song” follows Olivia, an American writer returning to her family’s ancestral home, where her grandmother sought refuge during the Nazi invasion in World War II. As Olivia attempts to gather material for her stalled novel, she encounters Madeline, a local woman whose spirit and ingenuity resonate with memories of Olivia's grandmother. The narrative intertwines three storylines: Olivia’s present-day experiences, her grandmother’s past, and the fictional narrative she is crafting, inspired by a fabricated Namibian tribal tradition about inner songs.

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Kalki Koechlin, known for her acclaimed performances in films like “Margarita with a Straw” and “Gully Boy,” leads the ensemble cast. James Ivory, recognized for his work on films such as “Call Me By Your Name” and “Howards End,” serves as the executive producer. The production team also includes Marine Assaiante, Eléa Clair, and John M. Keller, with cinematography by Wilhelm Kuhn and Thomas Walser, music by Dhruv Goel, and editing by Maud Babinot.

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Michael Rabehl, Cinequest's director of programming, emphasized the festival's role in fostering connections through film. He stated, “Opening night at Cinequest is about more than launching a festival. It’s an invitation... ‘Her Song’ captured us immediately because it feels alive to curiosity, memory, and the quiet magic of human connection.” This sentiment highlights the film's thematic exploration of personal and collective histories, making it a fitting choice for the festival's opening night.

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While the film has garnered attention for its unique narrative and strong performances, some critics may question the portrayal of cultural elements, particularly the fictionalized aspects of the Namibian tradition. This aspect could lead to discussions about cultural representation and authenticity in storytelling.

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Following its premiere at Cinequest, “Her Song” is expected to participate in various film festivals and screenings, potentially expanding its audience and sparking further discussions about its themes and cultural narratives.

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“‘Her Song’ captured us immediately because it feels alive to curiosity, memory and the quiet magic of human connection.” — Michael Rabehl, Cinequest Director of Programming.

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