Cyrano de Bergerac

The movie

The adventures of Gascogne’s famous and turbulent cadet, in love with his cousin, Roxane, as seen by the director of “La Vie de château” and screenwriter Jean-Claude Carrière. “The idea was to make a film. We couldn’t be content with simply putting the play into pictures. We wanted to give the story we loved the dynamics and tension of a film. The real challenge of the film is that the characters speak in verse.

A bold vision

In this adaptation, director Jean-Paul Rappeneau and screenwriter Jean-Claude Carrière set themselves the challenge of elevating Edmond Rostand’s work beyond mere theatrical dialogue. They have captured the essence of the play while integrating innovative cinematic staging. Their visual and narrative choices aim to make the story accessible and captivating for a wide audience, while preserving the poetry and depth of the verses.

A cadet with a big heart

Gérard Depardieu, in the role of Cyrano, perfectly embodies this emblematic character: a man both brilliant and tormented, whose love for his cousin Roxane is as noble as it is desperate. His performance, blending strength and vulnerability, offers an unforgettable interpretation of this romantic hero, torn between his keen mind and his physical complex. The palpable chemistry between the actors adds an extra dimension to this tragedy of love, making the viewer an accomplice in their emotional dilemmas.

A cultural heritage

“Cyrano de Bergerac” is not just a film, but a celebration of literary and cultural heritage. The richness of the verse dialogue, supported by sumptuous sets and a memorable soundtrack, transports the audience to 17th-century France.

The critic

Upon its release, “Cyrano de Bergerac” was a resounding critical and commercial success, hailed for its ability to reinvent a classic while respecting its essence. Not only did the film win several awards, it also left its mark on a generation of viewers, bringing Rostand’s poetry back to life in a cinematic format. Its success paved the way for other adaptations of classic plays, proving that theater can find a new voice on the big screen. Celebrating the spirit of Cyrano, this work continues to inspire artists and lovers of literature alike.