An incredible true tale of mayonnaise sandwiches, Nazis and a hand-painted comic book!

Artist and filmmaker Philippe Mora (Mad Dog Morgan, MIFF 2015; Swastika, MIFF 1973) is producing a graphic novel about his late father, Georges, widely known in Melbourne as a beloved contemporary art patron and owner of bohemian eateries Mirka Café, Café Balzac and the Tolarno Restaurant and Galleries. Less known, however, is Georges' astonishing history as part of the French resistance during World War II, his friendship with renowned mime Marcel Marceau (Philippe's godfather), and how together they saved thousands of Jewish lives with a fiendishly simple trick involving baguettes and mayonnaise.

Director Trevor Graham (Make Hummus Not War, MIFF 2012) follows Philippe as he traces his dad's journey, painting the story as he uncovers it during visits, and meals, with those who knew and helped Georges throughout his life: from his childhood as Günther Morawski to meeting his wife (and Philippe's mother), acclaimed artist Mirka Mora, to the family's dramatic survival during the Holocaust. Supported by the MIFF Premiere Fund, Monsieur Mayonnaise is a lively, colourful, tasty and uniquely personal take on 20th-century history, art, food and family.

World Premiere

Trevor Graham and Philippe Mora are guests of the festival.