Italian
Studiocanal enhances its classic film lineup with Melville’s ‘Les Enfants Terribles’
Expansion of an Impressive Collection
Studiocanal, a dominant force in production, distribution, and sales, has further enriched its extensive film library by acquiring Jean-Pierre Melville’s 1950 classic, “Les Enfants Terribles”. This significant acquisition joins an impressive roster of Melville’s works, including “Army of Shadows,” “Le Cercle Rouge,” “Bob le Flambeur,” and “Le Doulos”. With this addition, Studiocanal consolidates its reputation as a leading player in both the French and international film markets.
A Commitment to Preservation and Restoration
As a subsidiary of the Canal+ Group, Studiocanal’s strategy goes beyond mere acquisition; it emphasizes the preservation and restoration of cinematic treasures. Over the past seven years, the company has invested €25 million ($27.5 million) in the restoration of approximately 1,000 films. This includes both full restorations and 4K conversions to meet contemporary platform requirements. “Each movie is treated uniquely,” explained CEO Anna Marsh. “Some films require extensive restoration, while others simply need 4K conversion to meet today’s format standards.”
Global Reach and Local Impact
Studiocanal’s global ambition is evident with the recent opening of a second office in New York, aimed at reaching a broader audience through collaborations with U.S. distributors like Rialto Pictures. This strategy is paying off, as shown by the successful re-releases of classics such as Jean-Luc Godard’s “Le Mépris”, which grossed $250,000 on its 60th anniversary, and “La Piscine”, which made $210,000 in 2021.
“Releasing these movies across Europe is fantastic, but watching them resonate with U.S. audiences is truly gratifying,” Marsh noted, highlighting the importance of partnerships in the re-release and restoration sectors.
Delving into Cinema History with New Documentaries
To further enhance its classic film library’s value, Studiocanal is venturing into the production of documentaries that explore cinema history. The first in this series, “Becoming Hitchcock”, delves into the early works of the legendary director, particularly his 1929 film “Blackmail”, which introduced the iconic “Hitchcock touch.” Premiering at the Lumière Film Festival, this documentary series aims to provide an insightful look into the creative minds behind some of cinema’s most revered works.
“The team aims to leverage our extensive catalog holistically,” Marsh shared. “Instead of focusing on individual films, we explore broader themes like major directors, actors, and producers, creating accessible documentaries that teach us about cinema’s beauty.”
Modern Remakes and New Projects
Studiocanal isn’t just interested in preserving the past; it’s actively reimagining it for today’s audiences. A notable project in development is “Huntington”, a modern remake of the 1949 British crime comedy “Kind Hearts and Coronets”, produced by A24 and directed by John Patton Ford. Featuring Glen Powell (from “Top Gun: Maverick”) and Margaret Qualley (from “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood”), this remake exemplifies how classic stories can be retold for contemporary viewers.
“Having such an extensive library is a treasure trove of ideas and stories,” Marsh emphasized, “allowing us to adapt classic intellectual properties to resonate with today’s audience.”
Partnerships and Modern Strategies
To ensure classic films remain relevant in the age of streaming and blockbuster domination, Studiocanal collaborates with cinematheques and festivals like Lumière. These institutions are pivotal in keeping classic films in the public eye through theatrical screenings and celebrations that attract both seasoned cinephiles and new generations.
Additionally, Studiocanal taps into modern cultural trends through merchandising and licensing deals. Collaborations with gaming platforms such as Fortnite and the “Call of Duty” franchise utilize the enduring appeal of franchises like “Terminator“ to reach younger audiences effectively.
Recognition and Future Endeavors
During the Lumière Film Festival, Anna Marsh will be honored with the Fabienne Vonier Prize, celebrating women who have made significant contributions to cinema. This award, named after the pioneering co-founder of Pyramide, recognizes Marsh’s substantial impact on the film industry.
Studiocanal’s robust library, innovative strategies, and dedication to preservation ensure that classic films will continue to inspire, educate, and entertain audiences worldwide. For more updates on the latest in film and cinema, follow our site for upcoming news and insights.
