The legends of Paris: A journey through 19th-century artistry
The allure of 19th-century Paris has once again captivated audiences with the release of the four-part series, The Legends of Paris. Premiering at the Unifrance Rendez-Vous market in Le Havre, this series has already garnered significant international interest even before its official launch.
A deep dive into Parisian artistry
Produced by Silex Films and Arte, The Legends of Paris offers an intimate portrayal of some of France’s most cherished artistic and literary figures. The series transports viewers to the vibrant heart of 19th-century Paris, following the lives of iconic artists such as Victor Hugo, Alexandre Dumas, George Sand, Louis-Hector Berlioz, Honoré de Balzac, and Charles Baudelaire. Each episode delves into their personal and professional journeys, painting a vivid picture of their contributions to art and literature.
Global appeal and pre-sale success
The international fascination with this period and its personalities is evident. Arte Distribution has already secured pre-sale deals with several broadcasters, including TV Unam in Mexico, The Arts Channel in New Zealand, Swiss broadcaster SRF, Hrvatska radiotelevizija in Croatia, Radio and Television of Montenegro, Georgia’s LEPL Public Broadcaster, and Hellenic Parliament TV in Greece. Arte will air the series in both France and Germany, ensuring a wide audience for this captivating tale.
The creative minds behind the series
Directed and co-written by Amélie Harrault, The Legends of Paris is a follow-up to her 2015 hit animated series, Adventurers of Modern Art. This previous series explored the Parisian art scene at the turn of the 20th century and was met with international acclaim. Harrault’s passion for this period is evident, as producer Judith Nora of Silex Films notes, “this period was her dream.” Harrault aimed to create a series that would resonate with young viewers, helping them understand the poetry, literature, and music of the time.
A challenging yet rewarding project
The development of The Legends of Paris began in 2017 and was a monumental task. Spanning 44 years of art history and featuring 30 characters, the series required extensive research and meticulous attention to detail. The animation process involved 90 people working for two years, utilizing innovative techniques and software to bring the story to life.
Harrault employed various animation techniques, all digital, to recreate her unique painting style. The team used Escape Motions’ Rebelle painting software and TVPaint Animation software to streamline the animation process, allowing for faster and more efficient production.
A blend of fiction and documentary
In terms of storytelling, Harrault focused on the friendships and artistic influences among the characters. This approach allowed for a rich narrative that blends fiction and documentary elements, offering a fresh perspective on this historical period. As Judith Nora points out, “We can say that 44 years of art history, all those iconic persons, in animation, using both fiction and documentary – it’s something that has never been done before.”
A new era in storytelling
The Legends of Paris represents a turning point in storytelling, particularly in the realm of animation. Joséphine Létang, head of international distribution and marketing at Arte Distribution, emphasizes the power of animation in broadening audiences and introducing historical figures to younger viewers. “We believe in animation — it really lends strength to storytelling,” she says.
A family-friendly exploration of art and politics
Described as a family show, The Legends of Paris makes its themes of art and politics accessible to viewers as young as 12. French pupils begin learning about Romanticism at the age of 14, and this series provides a valuable educational resource. Even younger viewers can appreciate the flavor of the period, gaining an early appreciation for the rich cultural history of 19th-century Paris.
A labor of love
The creation of The Legends of Paris was a labor of love, driven by a passion for art and history. The series not only entertains but also educates, offering a unique window into the lives of some of France’s most influential artists and writers. For those who wish to delve deeper into the world of The Legends of Paris, the series trailer and additional information can be found here.
The Legends of Paris stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of 19th-century Paris and its artistic legacy. Through innovative animation and compelling storytelling, the series brings this vibrant period to life, inviting viewers of all ages to explore the rich tapestry of history, art, and literature.