On April 18, 2025, two captivating films are set to air on French television, providing viewers with a mix of drama and comedy. First up, at 21:05 on France 5, is the iconic film "The Untouchables" directed by Brian De Palma. This 1987 adaptation of the legendary 1960s series takes audiences back to the early 1930s, during the turbulent era of Prohibition. The film chronicles the rise of Al Capone, the infamous crime boss who dominated the alcohol trade in Chicago amidst rampant police corruption.
In a bid to dismantle Capone's operations, young federal agent Eliot Ness, portrayed as a determined and principled figure, assembles a team of honest law enforcement officers. Among them is the tough but loyal officer Jim Malone, who aids Ness in his quest to combat Capone's gang and his ruthless enforcer, Frank Nitti. The film is renowned for its thrilling action sequences, including a breathtaking final shootout at a Chicago train station, and it masterfully depicts the epic struggle between good and evil.
Meanwhile, on Canal+ at 21:10, audiences can enjoy "N'avoue jamais," a comedy directed by Ivan Calbérac, known for his previous works such as "L'Étudiante et Monsieur Henri" and "Venise n'est pas en Italie." This film stars André Dussollier, Sabine Azéma, and Thierry Lhermitte, and it revolves around François Marsault, played by Dussollier, who discovers that his wife Annie had an affair 40 years ago. This shocking revelation sends François on a mission to confront Annie's former lover, Boris, portrayed by Lhermitte, resulting in a series of comedic and unexpected events.
What makes "N'avoue jamais" particularly intriguing is its inspiration from a real-life incident involving a 92-year-old Sicilian man who discovered love letters from over 70 years prior in his attic. This discovery led to a divorce, making him the oldest divorcee in Italy. Calbérac found this story amusing and touching, prompting him to adapt it into a film. However, he made significant changes, opting to portray a younger protagonist instead of a 90-year-old character to better suit the comedic narrative.
In an interview with France Télévisions, Calbérac expressed his desire to focus on themes of jealousy and revenge rather than simply creating a film about divorce. He stated, "I did not want to make a film about life/divorce; I wanted to make a film more about jealousy and revenge." This shift in focus adds depth to the story, allowing audiences to engage with the characters on a more emotional level.
As both films air on the same evening, viewers are treated to a diverse cinematic experience, from the gritty realism of "The Untouchables" to the light-hearted comedy of "N'avoue jamais." Each film offers a unique perspective on human relationships—whether through the lens of crime and morality or through the complexities of love and betrayal.
With their rich narratives and engaging performances, these films are sure to resonate with audiences, making April 18, 2025, a notable date for French television. Film enthusiasts and casual viewers alike can look forward to a night filled with entertainment that captures the essence of storytelling in different genres.
