On Thursday, May 1, 2025, France 3 will rebroadcast the gripping telefilm Peur sur la base, featuring the talented Audrey Fleurot in a role that marks a departure from her usual characters. Originally aired in 2017, this compelling police drama, directed by Laurence Katrian, plunges viewers into the depths of a military investigation amidst the austere backdrop of a naval base in Brittany.
In Peur sur la base, Fleurot portrays Odessa Berken, an adjudante-chef in the maritime gendarmerie. Her character is dispatched to Brest to investigate the mysterious disappearance of a young marine fusilier named Yassin Rhaled. The plot thickens when Yassin's lifeless body is discovered at the foot of the cliffs of Crozon, leading to revelations that shake both the military community and Odessa's family.
The film opens with an unsettling premise: Yassin is reported missing, and the urgency of the situation escalates when his body is found. An autopsy reveals that his death was not an accident but a murder, setting off a tense investigation that uncovers a web of secrets within the naval base.
As Odessa delves deeper into the case, she not only faces the challenge of navigating the rigid military hierarchy but also grapples with personal stakes, as her own brother, Nathan Berken—played by Cyril Descours—emerges as a prime suspect in the investigation. This familial connection adds a layer of complexity to her role as both an investigator and a sister.
The filming of Peur sur la base took place primarily at the Centre d’instruction naval de Brest, marking a significant achievement in terms of authenticity. According to producer Marie-Hélène Pagès, “We shot 70% of the scenes on the base, a percentage that had never been reached for a fiction.” This level of access allowed the production team to portray a realistic depiction of military life, which is often shrouded in secrecy.
Audrey Fleurot has shared her experiences on set, noting the strict discipline that mirrored military protocols. “The military personnel were surprised to see how a quasi-military discipline was applied on set,” she remarked. “A mutual respect quickly established itself, and they continuously advised us on how to adhere to protocols and avoid faux pas.” This immersive environment not only enhanced the film's authenticity but also provided Fleurot with a unique opportunity to portray a character deeply embedded in the military world.
The film's narrative explores themes of loyalty, authority, and the complexities of human relationships within a male-dominated environment. Odessa’s character is portrayed as a strong, authoritative figure, yet she grapples with her own vulnerabilities, particularly in her personal life. Fleurot describes her character as “much more awkward in her sentimental life,” highlighting the duality of strength and fragility that defines Odessa.
The storyline also touches upon serious issues such as harassment and sexual violence within the military, a topic that the production team was able to address candidly, thanks to their collaboration with the military and the Ministry of Defense. Pagès emphasized that nothing was censored, allowing for a more profound exploration of these critical issues.
Visually, Peur sur la base offers a striking portrayal of the military port and the surrounding city of Brest, capturing its austere beauty. The film's setting plays a crucial role in establishing the atmosphere, with the imposing cliffs and the naval base serving as a backdrop to the unfolding drama. The production team utilized various iconic locations, including a cable car ride over the city and views from the Térénez bridge, enhancing the telefilm's cinematic quality.
As the telefilm prepares for its rebroadcast, it’s worth noting that its initial airing in March 2018 attracted an impressive 4.3 million viewers, capturing 19% of the audience at the time. This success speaks to the compelling nature of the story and the strong performances delivered by the cast, particularly Fleurot, who has garnered praise for her portrayal of a complex female lead.
In anticipation of the upcoming fifth season of HPI, fans of Audrey Fleurot can look forward to seeing her in Peur sur la base as a way to tide over their excitement. The telefilm not only showcases her versatility as an actress but also provides a critical commentary on the dynamics of power and the impact of personal relationships within the military.
In conclusion, Peur sur la base stands out as a noteworthy telefilm that combines a gripping narrative with a thoughtful exploration of serious themes. Its rebroadcast on France 3 serves as an opportunity for both new viewers and fans to engage with a story that resonates with contemporary issues while delivering a thrilling viewing experience.
