In a captivating blend of history and romance, the film "Eiffel" delves into the lesser-known story behind the creation of the iconic Eiffel Tower. Set against the backdrop of late 19th century Paris, the narrative begins with Gustave Eiffel, played by Romain Duris, who has just delivered the Statue of Liberty to the United States. Following this monumental achievement, Eiffel is encouraged to construct a temporary tower for the 1889 Universal Exhibition. However, the film takes a bold narrative turn when Eiffel reconnects with his former love, Adrienne Bourgès, portrayed by Emma Mackey. Their rekindled relationship becomes the catalyst that propels him to embark on the ambitious project of building the tower.
Scheduled to air on M6 tonight, April 25, 2025, at 9:10 PM, "Eiffel" has been described as more than just a biopic; it intertwines elements of fiction with historical facts. The film suggests that the creation of the tower is deeply intertwined with Eiffel's thwarted romance with Adrienne, whom he had loved when he was a young, struggling engineer. The narrative posits that the tower's shape, resembling an 'A', is a tribute to Adrienne, symbolizing the love that could not come to fruition.
Interestingly, Romain Duris was not the first choice for the role of Gustave Eiffel. Before him, acclaimed actor Liam Neeson was considered for the part. Over the years, the project, which took two decades to develop, passed through the hands of several directors, including notable names like Ridley Scott and Luc Besson. Other prominent actors, such as Vincent Cassel, Gérard Depardieu, Isabelle Adjani, and Marion Cotillard, were also in the mix for potential roles in the film.
During the filming, the production team made a significant effort to recreate the Eiffel Tower's base, with 25 meters of the structure being reconstructed on-site. This attention to detail adds a layer of authenticity to the film, which strives to capture the essence of Paris during the tower's construction.
Romain Duris has expressed the challenges he faced in preparing for his role. He noted that most biographies of Gustave Eiffel focus primarily on his engineering achievements, leaving little room for personal exploration. "All the biographies talk primarily about his creations. The script of 'Eiffel' is on the same wavelength. It shows a go-getter, a man capable of rallying crowds, pushing through with a project as crazy as this Tower, while also having within him this fragility caused by impossible loves," Duris explained. He emphasized that the character's complexity allowed him to interpret Eiffel in a way that felt genuine, despite the historical liberties taken in the film.
The film's director, Martin Bourboulon, has acknowledged that while the romantic subplot is fictionalized, it draws on historical correspondence that hints at Eiffel's deep emotional ties. The actress Emma Mackey, who plays Adrienne, has stated that her character is based on a real person, lending an air of credibility to the film's narrative.
While some critics may argue that the film strays too far from factual accuracy, it undeniably offers a visually stunning portrayal of the era. The atmosphere of 19th century Paris, combined with the compelling love story, creates a unique cinematic experience. For those who appreciate historical dramas and the charm of Paris, "Eiffel" promises to be an engaging watch.
As the film prepares for its television debut, audiences are left to ponder the interplay between history and romance. Can a love story truly inspire one of the most recognizable structures in the world? "Eiffel" invites viewers to explore this question while immersing them in a beautifully crafted narrative that celebrates both love and ambition.
