Italian
Vanessa Paradis reflects on a multifaceted career at the Lumière Film Festival
Behind the scenes with iconic French cinema legends
Renowned French actor and singer Vanessa Paradis captivated audiences at the Lumière Film Festival in Lyon with her candid reflections on her illustrious career. During an engaging masterclass, she shared charming anecdotes from her time working alongside French cinema legends Alain Delon and Jean-Paul Belmondo in Half a Chance.
Working with Delon and Belmondo
In Patrice Leconte’s 1998 action comedy, Paradis starred alongside two of France’s cinematic icons. Recalling the dynamics on set, she noted how Jean-Paul Belmondo was perpetually surrounded by people, creating a lively ambiance, while Alain Delon was often in solitary company, with just his dogs by his side. Despite their differing on-set habits, the camaraderie between the two legends was palpable. “They were happy to make this film together,” Paradis reminisced, highlighting the mutual respect and affection they shared.
Embracing Hollywood with Woody Allen
Unlike her idol Marilyn Monroe, Vanessa Paradis did not chase a Hollywood career. Nonetheless, fate brought her to work with Woody Allen in 2013’s Fading Gigolo. Paradis humorously recounted her first English-speaking role, where she portrayed an Orthodox Jewish widow. The experience proved both challenging and rewarding, given Allen’s penchant for improvisation.
“It was my first time filming in English,” she explained, detailing an occasion when Allen asked if she minded his off-the-cuff remarks. “It’s Woody Allen!” she chuckled, conveying the blend of intimidation and excitement she felt. Her maiden day on set, embodying a ‘lice lady’ equipped with a comb and a turban, added to the mix of emotions she faced, making it quite a memorable experience.
A heartfelt homage to Jean-Marc Vallée
Paradis took a moment to honor the late Jean-Marc Vallée, the visionary director behind Dallas Buyers Club. In Vallée’s 2011 drama Café de Flore, Vanessa Paradis delivered a powerful performance as a single mother raising a son with Down syndrome. Recalling how Vallée’s creative input shaped her portrayal, Paradis revealed how adopting his deep voice helped her bring a certain authority and masculinity to the role. “He insisted on no makeup and dyed my hair dark to intensify the character,” she shared, showing deep gratitude for the director’s guiding hand.
A dream unfulfilled: the musical
Despite her varied career, one aspiration remains unfulfilled for Paradis: starring in a musical. “It’s always been a dream of mine,” she confessed, reflecting on how she has yet to combine singing, dancing, and acting on screen. As she humorously noted, “I must hurry up before I get arthritis.” This blend of passion and urgency offered a poignant glimpse into the actor’s enduring aspirations.
A nod to her favorite film
Transitioning into a lighter note, Paradis expressed her unwavering admiration for ‘Singing in the Rain.’ Recalling the immense joy and emotional depth the film brings her, she admitted to crying every time she watches it. “I know it by heart,” she said, reflecting on how deeply the movie resonates with her.
Exploring new artistic avenues
Continuing to seek new challenges, Paradis ventured into stage acting with Maman in 2021. Written by her husband Samuel Benchetrit, the play allowed her to explore a different artistic medium. Her dedication to broadening her artistic horizons hints at an upcoming album, set for release in 2025.
Vanessa Paradis’s reflections at the Lumière Film Festival offer a riveting insight into the rich tapestry of her career. From her iconic film collaborations to her unfulfilled dreams and heartfelt tributes, Paradis’s journey showcases a blend of talent, curiosity, and passion that continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.
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