Clovis Cornillac stars as Nico, the central character of the heartwarming comedy 'Les Vétérinaires,' which captures the ups and downs of rural veterinary life. Scheduled to air on February 23, 2025, on France 2, the film dives deep not just with humor, but with poignant insights about the struggles and dedication required of those who care for animals.
Nico, portrayed by Cornillac, is depicted as a diligent rural veterinarian who goes above and beyond for his craft. He is mentored by Michel, played by singer-songwriter Michel Jonasz, who announces his retirement and the arrival of his niece Alexandra (Noémie Schmidt) as his replacement. What promises to be simple transitional phase soon escalates — Alexandra is fresh out of veterinary school and lacks the desire to return to the village she fled.
Written and directed by Julie Manoukian, 'Les Vétérinaires' serves as her directorial debut, presenting both comedic and dramatic layers. With the narrative revolving around Nico's quirky relationship with his new apprentice, the film examines the unique bond formed between those who work closely with animals. The duo's dynamic is illustrative of the challenges veterinarians face, such as dealing with clients and keeping up with their work commitments. Cornillac, who grew up surrounded by performers—his parents being actors—has said, 'There’s something very animal about me. With animals, there's a different way of communicating, which I feel comfortable with.'
Interestingly, Cornillac's own childhood experiences, particularly watching the show 'Daktari,' shaped his relationship with animals and led him to play this role. He admits, ‘I didn’t think I had the intellectual capacities for it [veterinary studies] due to the immense workload it requires. Instead, I identified more with Clarence, the lion!’
But the film's true power rests not only on Cornillac's performance. Manoukian carefully crafted her story, drawing inspiration from real-life veterinarians. 'My entry point was the caregivers,' she stated. 'When I began my research on veterinarians, I discovered their working conditions and knew I wanted to pay homage to their work.’ Many audience members resonate with this backdrop, which is woven with strains of humor and heroism.
'Les Vétérinaires' premiered with much interest, garnering over 640,000 views on its initial release, and attracting 4.45 million viewers during its recent airing on France 2, marking it as a cultural moment for rural representation on screen. Its impact was not just numerical; the film has sparked conversations about the realities of veterinary work, highlighting their availability and dedication to urgent animal care.
What’s also noteworthy is Cornillac’s personal connection to his role. Though he has faced challenges of his own, such as dealing with his speech impediment (dyslalie, or what he lovingly refers to as ‘zozotement’), his commitment to persistence and hard work has been unfailing. 'I practiced tirelessly at repeating the 's' sound,' Cornillac reflects, showing just how much perseverance mirrored the real-life veterinary struggles his character endures. He is aware of his role as a role model, reflecting, ‘This adventure has built me and made me stronger!’
Manoukian also emphasizes the uniqueness of the film's message: the importance of vet care amid rising pressures. 'A vet must know how to treat nearly all animals ever since domestication turned many species domestic. They must be available day and night for emergencies, from births to treatment,' she notes, shedding light on the sacrifices these professionals make everyday.
Four key elements set apart 'Les Vétérinaires' within the French comedy-dramatic spectrum: its authentic storytelling, character depth, emotional resonance, and its willingness to address social issues within the veterinary field.
Manoukian gives audiences insight not just through the narrative but through her relationship with the characters themselves. She combined observations of real veterinarians with the characteristics of figures from her own life to create Nico, saying, 'He embodies pieces of the paternal figures I’ve encountered.'
The film's depth is enhanced by its entertaining narrative, successfully blending comic relief with raw emotional moments. It showcases not only the struggles faced by Nico but also delves deeply within the layers of tender human-animal relationships enriched through Cornillac’s heartfelt performance.
With its compelling character relationships, humor, and insightful representation of the veterinary profession, 'Les Vétérinaires' provides audiences with both entertainment and newfound appreciation for those caring for animals. For more moments filled with humor, dedication, and stories worth telling, audiences are encouraged to tune in as it airs on France 2 on February 23.