Italian
Bringing World War II to life: A preview of “The Big War”
An ambitious transformation
One of Europe’s most ambitious feature projects, “The Big War”, has turned heads at this year’s Cannes Film Festival. As it heads to the AFM, fans are buzzing with excitement over the stunning new graphics unveiled for its CGI animal cast.
Inspired by the iconic graphic novel “La Bête Est Morte,” penned during the Nazi occupation of France, this film sets the stage for a unique storytelling experience. Directed by the acclaimed Mathieu Kassovitz and produced by Aton Soumache, who boasts a rich filmography including hits like “Little Nicholas – Happy as Can Be” and “Miraculous: Ladybug & Cat Noir, the Movie,” this project is set to redefine the genre.
Adapting a timeless classic
The original graphic novel, “La Bête Est Morte,” is notable for its sparse narrative, requiring a visionary approach to adaptation. This task fell to Caroline Thompson, a longtime collaborator with Tim Burton and the screenwriter behind classics like “Edward Scissorhands” and “The Nightmare Before Christmas.” With such a seasoned storyteller at the helm of the screenplay, the film promises depth and nuance rare in modern adaptations.
The film stands out with its hybrid approach—melding live-action shots with meticulously crafted CGI characters. This innovative method aims to create a highly immersive experience. As Kassovitz explained, “Everything will be real…but we should forget that the animals are animated. This dedication to realism ensures that the emotional core of the story remains intact, resonating deeply with audiences.”
Crafting a visual masterpiece
The intricate blend of live action and CGI is not merely a technical choice but a deliberate artistic vision. According to Soumache, “We want to use all the best parts of live action and CG animation. We want this to be a real, live-action movie like Scorsese or Spielberg or Nolan would do, just with animals.” This blend aims to create a film that is as visually stunning as it is emotionally compelling.
Appeal to all ages
While the source material enjoys widespread acclaim among readers of all ages, Kassovitz and Soumache ensure that the film will be similarly inclusive. They envision a film that can be enjoyed by children, teens, and adults alike. Kassovitz elaborates, “For a five-year-old, it’s an adventure movie. For a 15-year-old, it’s a movie about World War II. If you’re 22, it’s about the Nazi’s extermination of the Jewish people. And if you’re 50, you’ll know every detail.”
Maintaining authenticity in storytelling
Despite the adaptation’s creative liberties, Kassovitz notes the intrinsic value of the novel’s influence, stating, “The book is the DNA of what we will do…They were symbolic stories that became part of the culture of World War II.” This dedication to preserving the essence of the source material while crafting a narrative suited to modern audiences speaks to the filmmakers’ commitment to authenticity.
A classical approach to distribution
In an era dominated by streaming, Soumache champions a theatrical release for “The Big War.” He emphasizes, “I want this movie to be theatrical; I don’t want it to go right to streaming.” This commitment to a traditional cinematic experience highlights the filmmakers’ desire for communal viewing, where audiences of all ages can share in the film’s magic.
Ambitions beyond commercial success
Despite its €30 million budget, the film’s ambitions stretch far beyond commercial success. Soumache and Kassovitz are driven by a desire to craft a narrative that encapsulates the innocence and complexities of childhood amidst the harrowing backdrop of war. Kassovitz reflects, “Presenting it as a game with different layers of comprehension will allow the film to accompany them as they grow up.”
Conclusion
As “The Big War” prepares to captivate audiences worldwide, it stands as a testament to the power of innovative filmmaking. Melding the rich legacy of its source material with cutting-edge visual effects and masterful storytelling, it promises to offer an experience that will resonate across generations. This ambitious project is not just a film; it’s a labor of love and a testament to the enduring power of cinema.
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