A new AI thriller ‘The Residence’ delivers high-stakes drama

A new chapter for Yann Gozlan

Following the success of “Black Box” and “A Perfect Man”, acclaimed French filmmaker Yann Gozlan is set to captivate audiences once more with his new project, “The Residence”. This gripping psychological thriller explores the intricate dynamics between humans and AI, featuring a stellar cast including Cécile de France (“The Young Pope”), Lars Mikkelsen (“House of Cards”), and French music legend Mylène Farmer.

A high-concept thriller by Gaumont

Gaumont is spearheading the co-production and handling international sales for this much-anticipated film. The first stills from the movie have just been unveiled, generating significant buzz among industry insiders. Alexis Cassanet, Gaumont’s EVP of international sales and distribution, and his team are actively presenting this exciting French project to buyers at the AFM (American Film Market).

The plot thickens: A look into ‘The Residence’

Set in a near-future world, “The Residence” revolves around Clarissa (played by De France), a novelist struggling with writer’s block. She enters a prestigious, cutting-edge artist residency and is paired with an AI assistant named Dalloway (played by Farmer). Initially, Dalloway serves as a supportive companion, but as time progresses, the AI’s presence becomes unsettlingly intrusive.

Mathias, a whistleblower artist, warns Clarissa about the true motives behind the residency and the tech company funding it. With suspicions mounting, Clarissa begins to unravel the meticulously crafted trap that ensnares her.

An impressive production team

Produced by Nicolas Altmayer and Éric Altmayer of Mandarin & Compagnie, “The Residence” benefits from the expertise of one of France’s leading production outfits. Known for their involvement in critically acclaimed films like “By The Grace of God” and “Monsieur Aznavour”, the Altmayer duo brings a wealth of experience and a track record of success to the project.

Gozlan’s cinematic journey

Yann Gozlan has established himself as a master of the thriller genre. His previous film, Black Box, a dramatic storyline about a black box analyst investigating a deadly crash, grossed $9.4 million and captivated audiences worldwide. His debut feature, “A Perfect Man”, featuring Pierre Niney, was also a breakout hit, demonstrating Gozlan’s keen ability to blend suspense with deeply human narratives.

The impact of AI on arts and culture

Gozlan’s new film addresses timely and complex themes. As Cassanet notes, Gozlan tackles the influence of AI on artists, movies, and literature, presenting these issues with a modern and engaging touch. The plot is not just a thrilling narrative but also a contemplation on the potential future impacts of AI on human creativity and interaction.

Future releases to look forward to

Gaumont has scheduled the release of “The Residence” in France for the third quarter of 2025. Beyond this high-stakes thriller, Gaumont’s AFM slate includes several noteworthy films:

• “High in the Clouds”: The long-awaited adaptation of Paul McCartney’s children’s adventure novel.
• “The Wizard of the Kremlin”: A political thriller directed by Olivier Assayas and starring a star-studded cast including Paul Dano, Alicia Vikander, and Jude Law. This film is based on the best-selling novel by Giuliano da Empoli.

A promising future for French cinema

With “The Residence,” Gozlan continues to prove his expertise in crafting contemporary thrillers that are not only entertaining but also thought-provoking. His ability to blend traditional storytelling with modern themes ensures his films resonate with a wide audience, tapping into the collective curiosity about the future intersection of technology and humanity.

By continually pushing the boundaries of genre and theme, French cinema remains a significant force in the global film industry, delivering stories that challenge, entertain, and inspire.

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