Nicolas Henry

At the end of the 1950s, four humor specialists simultaneously experienced recognition. Fernandel with “The Cow and the Prisoner”, Bourvil with “The Hunchback”, Jacques Tati with “My Uncle” and Louis de Funès with “Oscar” at the theater. On the big screen or on stage, each of these artists has a unique style of humor. They are the kings of French comedy. But how did they manage to become true box office champions? How did they experience their immense popularity? How do they still influence the comedy genre? And above all, are- are they funny in life? Where is the line between their character in the cinema and their real personality?

Jean Gabin took his first steps in cinema in the 1930s and quickly rose to fame thanks to his striking naturalness. Having become a star, he made his mark in the most famous French films, first by playing magnificent thugs or characters with tragic destinies, then by imprinting his characters with his aura, his legendary wit, and his charisma that commanded respect. An exceptional actor, he became one of the great names of French cinema and continued to build his legend, working with the greatest filmmakers (Grangier, Verneuil, Delannoy) and alongside prestigious actors (Bernard Blier, Lino Ventura, Louis de Funès, Alain Delon, Jean-Paul Belmondo).

Follow in the footsteps of burlesque actor Pierre Richard, a key figure in French cinema in the 1970s and 1980s.