On April 23, 2025, at 21h25, viewers on TMC will have the opportunity to revisit a classic of French cinema, Mais où est donc passée la 7ème compagnie ? Directed by Robert Lamoureux and released in 1973, this film is the first installment of a beloved trilogy that humorously portrays the French military's debacle during World War II.
The film centers around the misadventures of three soldiers from the 7th company of the 106th transmission regiment during the chaotic days of June 1940. As the French army retreats, the sergeant-chef Chaudard, played by Pierre Mondy, and his companions, soldat Pithivier (Jean Lefebvre) and soldat Tassin (Aldo Maccione), find themselves in a series of comedic situations while trying to evade capture by the Germans.
Upon its release, Mais où est donc passée la 7ème compagnie ? became a massive hit, attracting over 4 million viewers in France alone. Its combination of humor and satire, alongside memorable one-liners like “J’ai glissé, chef !” and “Qu’est-ce que vous nagez bien chef !”, solidified its place in French pop culture and made it a staple of comedic cinema.
However, the film's production was not without its challenges. Tensions reportedly ran high on set, particularly between Aldo Maccione and Jean Lefebvre. Maccione, known for his fiery temperament, often clashed with Lefebvre over the latter's late arrivals and gambling habits. According to reports, Maccione found Lefebvre's constant tardiness and penchant for nightlife frustrating, especially since director Robert Lamoureux was lenient with Lefebvre while being critical of Maccione's behavior.
Henri Guybet, who later replaced Maccione in the sequel On a retrouvé la 7ème compagnie !, recounted the difficulties of working with Lefebvre, stating, "Jean had an unlimited passion for a mistress that costs a fortune: gambling." This lifestyle led to frequent late nights at casinos, which did not sit well with the production schedule. Guybet noted, "Going to bed at 4 AM when you need to be up at 9 AM makes for a short night!"
Despite these issues, the film's humor and charm shone through, captivating audiences and leading to two sequels: On a retrouvé la 7ème compagnie ! in 1975 and La 7ème compagnie au clair de lune in 1977. Both sequels continued the story of Chaudard, Pithivier, and Tassin, further exploring their comedic escapades.
The film's poster, which has become iconic, was created by Hervé Morvan, a prolific artist known for his work on over 150 film posters. His vibrant designs helped define the visual identity of French cinema in the 1970s.
Lamoureux, who also wrote the screenplay, drew from his own experiences during World War II to craft a narrative that balanced humor with a poignant reflection on a dark period in French history. The film's comedic approach to serious themes resonated with audiences, allowing them to laugh at the absurdities of war.
Despite the comedic tone, the production faced its share of difficulties. According to various accounts, the filming was chaotic, with Lamoureux's demanding nature contributing to the tensions on set. He was known for his strong personality and high expectations, which sometimes led to clashes with the cast. Maccione's explosive temperament added to the mix, resulting in a challenging but ultimately rewarding filming experience.
In his book, Lefebvre described Lamoureux as a talented but "very, very difficult" individual, acknowledging the director's high standards while also noting his sensitivity. "If someone he reprimanded got upset, he would feel terrible about it," Lefebvre wrote. This complexity in Lamoureux's character contributed to the film's tumultuous yet creative atmosphere.
As the film airs tonight, it serves not only as an opportunity to enjoy a classic comedy but also as a reminder of the intricate dynamics behind its creation. The blend of humor, historical context, and the personal stories of its cast and crew enrich the viewing experience, inviting audiences to appreciate the film on multiple levels.
In summary, Mais où est donc passée la 7ème compagnie ? remains a significant work in the landscape of French cinema. Its ability to merge laughter with a critical look at history has ensured its enduring popularity. The film's re-airing on TMC is a perfect chance for both new viewers and longtime fans to relive the adventures of Chaudard, Pithivier, and Tassin and to reflect on the film's cultural impact.
