On September 22, a somewhat special preview took place: that of The Odyssey, a biopic of the commander in the presence of Cousteau’s contemporaries, those who truly took part in the adventures aboard the Calypso. The emotion and anticipation are palpable in the Bonneveine cinema in Marseille, where Cousteau’s adventure truly began. Friends, relatives, and collaborators with their families responded to the call from François Dorado (photographer for the Cousteau team), who regularly organizes reunions for the former Calypso crew. Everyone was present to watch Jérôme Salle’s work, whose official release will take place on October 12.
For this symbolic screening, the director is present, as well as Lambert Wilson perfectly portraying Cousteau, Pierre Niney playing Philippe Cousteau, the commander’s second son, and Simone Melchior (Audrey Tautou in the film), and Vincent Heneine interpreting Albert Falco, also known as Bébert. A film of modesty and restraint evoking the extraordinary story of an incredible family living their own dream, despite what it cost them. It took conviction and courage to tackle a monument like Cousteau, but they did it together, and together they have come (with some apprehension) to present it to those who have lived a part of this magic. A first meeting had already taken place more than a year ago when some of the former Calypso crew warmly welcomed the actors during the preparation of their roles.
» It’s very moving to be here » begins Jérôme Salle introducing his presentation. » Of all the screenings, this is the most intense and nerve-wracking for all of us » he continues. He then specifies that the film was not made for those who knew the commander Cousteau at one time or another but especially for everyone else, particularly the younger ones: « Iwrote this film to introduce Cousteau to my children » so they truly know who he was and what his work is. Cousteau opened a door to ocean exploration, he was a pioneer who shared his passion with the public, but he was also a father having complex relations with his two sons, especially with Philippe, a father/son relationship that serves as a common thread for the film.
» I am scared to death » says Lambert Wilson as he takes the microphone, masterfully portraying the role of Cousteau. » It is overwhelming to be in front of you, we who have only lived a thousandth of everything you have experienced » says the actor addressing the former Calypso crew, » we have touched something that is of the marvelous « .
» You can’t do better in 2 hours of film to tell a life as rich as Cousteau’s » confides Dominique Serafini at the end of the screening. The illustrator himself knew Jacques-Yves Cousteau and his crew well when, in 1983, he boarded the Calypso in Martinique to create a series of comic books inspired by the missions of the Cousteau team all around our blue planet.
National release of the film The Odyssey : on October 12.
Find the full article on the film’s backstage in issue No.5 of the magazine Plongez!
Morgane CONSTANTIN