Philippe Gaulier: The Man Who Waits for Freedom
On 9 February 2026, legendary French theatre master and pedagogue Philippe Gaulier passed away in Paris at the age of 82 due to complications from a lung infection.
Over the past decades, his singular approach to teaching profoundly influenced actors, directors, and creators around the world. His philosophy of Le Jeu (“Play”) not only transformed acting methods, but fundamentally reshaped the way performance itself is understood.
Philippe Gaulier is widely regarded as one of the most influential and revolutionary theatre teachers of our time. His school, École Philippe Gaulier, has long attracted students from more than thirty countries and regions worldwide, becoming a pilgrimage site for theatre practitioners across the globe.
His former students span international film and theatre industries, including Academy Award-winning actress Emma Thompson, Sacha Baron Cohen, Geoffrey Rush, Helena Bonham Carter, Kathryn Hunter, Anthony Wong, Karena Lam, Jim Chim, Vera Chen, and many others.
The title was personally given by Philippe Gaulier himself, and the film ultimately became one of his final gifts to the world.
Directed by Christiaan Hendriksen and Samuel Tressler IV, the documentary follows Gaulier over an extended period through intimate observation and in-depth conversations.
Beginning with his 80th birthday celebration, the film captures students from around the world gathering to honour the teacher who transformed their lives, while also witnessing his final moments of teaching before retirement.
The documentary not only reveals his highly distinctive teaching methods, but also captures his humour, sharpness, honesty, and uncompromising spirit.
Featured interviewees include:
• Anthony Wong • Linda Kerr Scott • Luke Rollason • Cal McCrystal • Viggo Venn and others.
🗣️ Languages: English, French & German
📝 Subtitles: Chinese, English & Bahasa Melayu
【Screening Information】
📅 23 May 2026 (Saturday)
📅 30 May 2026 (Saturday)
📅 6 June 2026 (Saturday)
🕒 3:00 PM
📍 GSC @ LaLaport
Ticket price: RM15
This special screening is officially authorised by École Philippe Gaulier, with the generous support of
• Chinese Film Association of Malaysia
• Happy Together Pictures
• ACT 2 PICTURES
