Christian Clavier, the renowned French actor and filmmaker, is back with a new comedic film, 'Cocorico 2', which tackles a sensitive topic: the relationship with foreigners. In this interview, Clavier discusses his approach to humor, the challenges of the film industry, and the impact of technology on cinema.
Clavier's character in the film, a wine merchant, discovers a lack of French genes in himself, pushing the boundaries of his character's national identity. This exploration of identity and cultural identity is a key theme in the film, and Clavier believes it's an important topic to address.
On the film industry, Clavier expresses his concerns about the current state of the business. He notes that producers are becoming more cautious, with fewer individuals and more corporate entities financing films. This shift has led to a more complex and risky environment for filmmakers.
Despite these challenges, Clavier remains optimistic about the future of cinema. He believes that technology, particularly artificial intelligence, will help resolve budget issues and make the industry more sustainable. However, he also acknowledges the importance of humor and the need to make people laugh.
In terms of personal life, Clavier reveals that he values the idea of transmission and friendship through wine. He appreciates the art of winemaking and the connection it creates between people. However, he also emphasizes the importance of self-forgetfulness in his profession, stating that actors should disappear into their characters rather than focus on themselves.
Clavier's own journey has been marked by controversy. He was recently condemned to repay 323,000 euros to the French tax authorities for his tax exile in London in 2012. Despite this setback, he remains focused on his craft and the impact of his work on audiences.
In conclusion, Christian Clavier's latest film, 'Cocorico 2', offers a thought-provoking exploration of cultural identity and the film industry. His insights into humor, technology, and personal life provide a deeper understanding of his work and the challenges he faces as a filmmaker.
