Award-Winning Comedy at Alpe d’Huez Festival Reveals Behind-the-Scenes of a Legendary Institution!

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A Tense Comedy at the Heart of French Comedy

In three hours, Nina (Pauline Clément) will unveil her first directorial attempt at the Comédie-Française. However, amidst the chaos of final rehearsals, nothing goes as planned: delays, stress, technical difficulties, and ego clashes rock the company. Yet, Nina must persevere because if there’s one unwavering rule at the Comédie-Française, it’s that the show must go on. A frantic race against the clock ensues to save the performance.

Awarded four prizes at the Alpe d’Huez Festival, French Comedy delves deep into this iconic French theatrical institution. Directed by Martin Darondeau and Bertrand Usclat (Broute, Fleur bleue), this debut feature film serves as a genuine homage to the theatre world and those who work tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure the curtain rises, no matter what. The film exudes a palpable sense of urgency and energy, reflecting a race against time.

This sense of ongoing urgency is also evident in the film’s production. Remarkably, the script was written in just two months, and filming wrapped up in three weeks. This rapid execution mirrors the hectic pace experienced by the characters on screen.

This swift shooting schedule was made possible by a bold decision from the directors, who insisted that real-life members of the Comédie-Française tell their own stories. As a result, all roles are portrayed by members of this prestigious institution, adding authenticity and credibility to the film while capturing the daily life of the Comédie-Française with accuracy and humor.

Indeed, the initial scenes preview a fast-paced comedy, driven by sharp dialogues – worthy of the greatest theatrical monologues – impeccable timing, and a cast of characters each more flamboyant than the last. Behind the doors of this legendary institution, it seems, lie great doubts, tensions, and passions.

A comedy that’s as funny as it is authentic, set in a prestigious institution, French Comedy is sure to appeal to both theatre lovers and those looking for a lively comedy. Mark your calendars for its release in theaters on July 22.

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