The much-anticipated film 'Un Ours dans le Jura' has kicked off its theatrical run with impressive numbers, captivating audiences since its release on January 1, 2025. The film, directed by Franck Dubosc, pulled in 60,225 viewers on opening day alone, setting the stage for what could be one of the year’s biggest hits. To bolster this figure, 29,000 tickets were sold during advance screenings, marking this as the best kickoff for any film featuring Dubosc to date.
Prior to its release, there were high hopes for 'Un Ours dans le Jura,' particularly following Dubosc's previous works. For example, his 2018 film 'Tout le monde debout' attracted nearly 46,500 viewers on its opening day, eventually reaching over two million ticket sales. Dubosc’s latest effort revolves around Michel, played by the actor himself, and his partner Cathy, portrayed by Laure Calamy. Their relationship is strained, lacking communication, particularly as they grapple with serious financial difficulties.
Things change dramatically when Michel swerves to avoid hitting a bear and ends up causing a tragic accident, resulting in the deaths of two individuals. Amidst the chaos, he uncovers two million euros packed safely away inside the victims' car. This unexpected turn of events forces the couple, who have drifted apart, to confront not only their relationship but the moral quandaries posed by their find.
Dubosc knows how to draw from life experiences to shape his stories. He humorously quipped, "Plus facile de diriger un acteur qui doit tuer quelqu’un qu’un couple qui fait l’amour…" reflecting on the challenges of directing intimate scenes versus more violent ones. These moments, inspired by the dark humor found within Coen brothers’ films like 'Fargo,' introduce comedic elements against the backdrop of serious events—a hallmark of Dubosc's filmography.
The film not only explores the follies of Michel and Cathy's relationship, but also provides social commentary on desperation and unexpected fortune. It cleverly juxtaposes humor with tragedy, making audiences question how easily circumstances can shift and the decisions we make under pressure.
Fans are already engaging with the film’s narrative, engaged by Dubosc’s relatable portrayal of the couple's struggles. Reflecting on their roles, Dubosc admitted to frequently missing lines, humorously referencing, "Oui, il faut bien le préciser : ce n’est pas 'Jacquie et Michel'…" He described the pitfalls of filming, including miscommunication on set, underscoring the film’s thematic essence of misunderstanding—both onscreen and off.
Visually appealing, 'Un Ours dans le Jura' also leans heavily on scenic backdrops, heightening contrasts between the characters’ mundane struggles and their extraordinary circumstances. Franck Dubosc’s approach reveals his sensitivity to both the physical and emotional landscapes of his characters, and this film appears to push him to new limits as both director and actor.
While discussing the film, Dubosc shared his experiences during production, including challenges faced during altitude filming. He faced unpredictable weather and regaled with tales of uncomfortable costumes, contributing to the film’s authentic feel of discomfort amid chaos. Dubosc expressed, "Cela a dû beaucoup t’amuser ?" He revealed the realities of being less prepared for the cold he encountered and the related discomfort it brought, which only added layers to his character’s portrayal.
'Un Ours dans le Jura' is more than just another comedy. It touches on what happens when life spins out of control, prompting people to examine their most intimate connections and the true cost of their choices. Currently available across various cinemas throughout France, this film is quickly building momentum and sparking conversations on relationships strained by economic despair and the potential for redemption.
At its core, 'Un Ours dans le Jura' captures the essence of human fragility and resilience, inviting viewers to laugh through their discomfort and reflect on their own circumstances. With audiences drawn to both the humor and serious themes, it seems poised to leave a lasting impact on French cinema.