In a celebration of love and resilience, the film Ma mère, Dieu et Sylvie Vartan premiered on March 19, 2025, starring popular French actors Jonathan Cohen and Leïla Bekhti. The movie, directed by Ken Scott, is based on a touching true story that underscores the unwavering bond between a mother and her son. It recounts the life of Esther, who promised her son Roland—born in 1963 with a clubfoot—that he would walk and lead a fabulous life. The narrative is a heartwarming exploration of how Esther kept her promise against all odds.
During their appearances, both Cohen and Bekhti highlighted the significance of the story. Cohen noted, "Ma mère, Dieu et Sylvie Vartan is a story about a mother's love and her promise to help her son overcome life's challenges," capturing the essence of the film. The narrative is not only a tribute to maternal love but also a testament to the trials and triumphs of life itself.
Adding to the film's publicity, Cohen is set to give a masterclass at the Séries Mania festival in Lille on March 22, 2025, where he'll share insights about his career and experiences in the entertainment industry. The film's promotional tour has included engaging discussions about the roles and the emotional depth they explore.
In a light-hearted moment, French singer and comedian Oldelaf expressed his admiration for Cohen and Bekhti, sparking conversations that veer towards the humorous side during their promotional appearances. He cheerfully remarked, "I'm a fan of Leïla Bekhti and Jonathan Cohen," indicating the deep connection fans feel towards the stars. Oldelaf's jovial tribute not only promotes the film but also underscores the lighthearted camaraderie the actors share with their audiences.
Moreover, Cohen's diverse portfolio continues to grow as he also stars in the Netflix series Les Lionnes, which has wrapped filming. This venture, co-produced with Benjamin Bellecour, marks another milestone for Cohen. Expecting to captivate audiences, the series promises powerful narratives exploring female solidarity and challenges.
In addition to his roles on screen, Cohen is anticipated to appear in L’âme idéale, marking his collaboration with new filmmaker Alice Vial. Filming for this project concluded at the end of 2024, further showcasing Cohen's commitment to diverse storytelling.
Leïla Bekhti is also gearing up for her future projects, including a notable appearance in Changer l’eau des fleurs, an adaptation of Valérie Perrin’s best-selling novel, which has generated significant buzz in the film community. Her involvement illustrates the dynamic range and talent both actors bring to the French film scene.
Moreover, the film Ma mère, Dieu et Sylvie Vartan arises from the literary work of Roland Perez, who not only penned the memoir introducing Esther's story but has ties to other it’s sister project, Bonne fête des mères, Papa!, releasing contemporaneously on March 19, 2025.
As the film opens in theaters, it aims to resonate with audiences through its heartfelt messages about love, commitment, and the power of dreams. The journey of Esther and Roland is more than just a narrative; it embodies the spirit of perseverance parents exhibit for their children's futures.
With both Cohen and Bekhti embarking on exciting new ventures, like the vibrant energy they bring to Ma mère, Dieu et Sylvie Vartan, audiences are sure to continue cheering on their careers. As they tread new paths through compelling narratives and collaborative projects, both stars are set to leave a significant cultural imprint on contemporary French cinema.
