On March 3, 2025, France 2 will air the telefilm Olympe, une femme dans la Révolution, directed by Julie Gayet and Mathieu Busson, which chronicles the life and struggles of Olympe de Gouges, regarded as one of the pioneers of feminism. The film, set against the backdrop of the French Revolution, focuses on Gouges' fight for women's rights during the tumultuous period of July 1793.
Julie Gayet not only stars as Olympe de Gouges but also takes on the role of co-director, marking the first time the life of this significant historical figure is portrayed on-screen. The telefilm details her arrest and the challenges she faced as one of the few women daring to voice their concerns under the oppressive regime of Robespierre.
Television audiences are treated to the compelling story of Gouges, who penned the Déclaration des droits de la femme et de la citoyenne amid the political chaos, addressing her grievances directly to Marie Antoinette. This declaration sought to integrate women’s voices within the political discourse of the day, cementing Gouges' legacy.
Filming took place primarily in Villefranche-de-Rouergue, Aveyron, over three weeks starting October 2023. The production team utilized various significant landmarks from the period to bring historical authenticity to the film's aesthetic, with real locations enhancing the viewer's experience of revolutionary Paris.
"It’s wonderful to shoot here. This is the magic of cinema," Gayet expressed her enthusiasm for the film's location. Her dedication to accurately portraying this pivotal figure is evident not just through her performance but also through the film's educational aspirations, as she noted, "When we say we did this for public service and television, it's also to be educational tools for history teachers." This sentiment reflects the team’s commitment to ensuring the story reaches educational institutions.
The film has garnered attention for its modern approach, aiming to captivate younger audiences without falling prey to the typical historical drama tropes. "We didn’t want to create something overly stuffy or academic. We wanted people—especially young girls—to find themselves reflected within Olympe’s story and draw parallels to their own lives today," Gayet remarked.
Despite some critiques about the film’s flashback structure and pacing, many have praised its intent to evoke discussions surrounding contemporary issues of women’s rights. Publications such as Ouest-France lauded it as "a fascinating telefilm rooted deeply on the subject matter," highlighting the relevance of Gouges' story as it echoes the modern struggles women continue to face.
Gayet emphasized the significance of portraying Gouges not just as a feministic icon but also as a loving mother and complex individual. "Yes, it was important to show her human side. Even her principles were challenged when it came to her son, leading her to make emotionally charged decisions. This complexity adds depth to her character and her legacy," she stated.
While some claim the film takes creative liberties—particularly concerning certain historical events—Gayet defended its narrative choices: "But they are her words," asserting the film's commitment to reflecting Gouges' authentic voice and intent. For those hungry for more historical details, the script will be published along with commentary from historians, allowing audiences to explore the nuances of her life beyond the film's runtime.
Julie Gayet termed this project "not just another role" but rather, "an investment" where she immerses herself deeply within Gouges’ narrative, showcasing the determination and vigor of a woman who fought against societal norms and the injustices of her time.
Viewers will witness how de Gouges' arrest catalyzed her involvement with other imprisoned women, amplifying their voices as well. The film serves as both tribute and mirror, reflecting our own societal issues back to us, inviting audiences to ponder the legacies of figures like Gouges, whose courage has paved the way for future generations.
With the telefilm airing just days before International Women's Day, it resonates as not only an homage to Olympe de Gouges but also as a call to action for continued advocacy for women’s rights worldwide.
Don’t miss Olympe, une femme dans la Révolution airing at 21:10 on France 2, available for free on the platform france.tv. This production stands as both entertainment and educational resource, highlighting the historical narrative of women's pivotal roles throughout the revolution and beyond.