From screenings to exceptional free conferences and glamorous events, the first edition of r7al (Rencontres 7e Art Lausanne) in the Swiss town of Lausanne more than met expectations, said spectators and special guests.

This new annual film event, which ran from March 24 to the 28th, and was spearheaded by actor/director Vincent Perez, brought the magic of film to life. More than 7,400 movie lovers attended the various events and screenings. Frédéric Maire, director of the Swiss Film Archive, was very pleased with the public’s response.

The tone was set the first morning with a lively discussion with Michel Hazanavicius, Barry Levinson and Valeria Golino. Some of the biggest star-struck moments came during appearances by Christopher Walken, including closing night when he received the first r7al award in tribute to his unique career.

Each day at venues around Lausanne, film was rolling in theatres and at round tables, conferences and screenings, with connections being made between movie lovers and esteemed guests from the film world. Among the 40 screenings were award-winning films such as The Deer Hunter, Rain Man, Requiem for a Dream, and Taxi Driver. In addition to the packed opening ceremony at the Capitole Theatre, key events included Sunday morning’s cine-brunch led by Michel Hazanavicius, as well as conversations with Darren Aronofsky, Thierry Frémaux, Alexandre Desplat, Tim Pope, Stephen Apkon, Hugh Hudson, Thomas Vinterberg, Fanny Ardant, Léa Seydoux, Rossy de Palma and Ursula Mei.