Marion Cotillard: Benoît Magimel's Take on Hollywood and American Cinema

Marion Cotillard: A Close Look at Benoît Magimel’s Views

Benoît Magimel graced the press this Saturday during the American Cinema Festival in Deauville, where he addressed the media with ease. As the president of the jury for this 50th edition, he artfully avoided the topic of his recent robbery on September 3rd, which saw the theft of his two César awards among other items.

Magimel is looking forward to the release of Ni chaînes ni maîtres by Simon Moutaïrou on September 18, showcased this Sunday at Deauville. He expressed his enduring passion for American cinema, an admiration cultivated since childhood. He reminisces about how VHS tapes introduced him to many classic westerns, nurturing his dream to craft a film about French shepherds who immigrated to the U.S.

Insights on American Cinema

• American filmmakers possess a unique ability to critique society.
• Magimel finds envy in their rapid responses to current events, reflecting their history through art.
• He raises concerns about the slower narrative progress seen in French cinema.

According to Magimel, Ni chaînes ni maîtres marks a significant exploration of the historical struggle against slavery, a project that took until 2024 to come to fruition.

The Difference in Approach

Unlike the U.S., where a younger nation is continually evolving, he discerned a slower therapeutic approach in French storytelling. He suggests that both cultures, though different in cinema's critical perspective, share underlying societal ailments that are reflected through their narratives.

While pondering his potential career in Hollywood, Magimel acknowledges the challenges that French actors face due to the industry's protectionism, although he remains open to opportunities if they arise with esteemed filmmakers.

Overall, Magimel remains a sensitive audience member himself, cherishing every cinematic experience that resonates deeply and emotionally, regardless of genre.