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July 14, 2015
Xavier Beauvois's humanistic comedy 'The Price of a Man' | MOVIE
MOVIE | The True Story of Chaplin's Body Snatchers, Brought to the Screen
A Human Comedy by Xavier Beauvois, 'The Price of Fame'
Based on the true story of the kidnapping of Charlie Chaplin's body, director Xavier Beauvois presents 'The Price of Fame,' a human drama infused with humor and bittersweet humanity. The film opens on Saturday, July 18th, at YEBIS GARDEN CINEMA, Cine Switch Ginza, and other theaters nationwide.
Text by YANAKA Tomomi
Chaplin's Family Fully Cooperated
The "Chaplin body snatching incident" that actually occurred in Switzerland in 1978 has been made into a film nearly 40 years later. Directed by the acclaimed Xavier Beauvois, who won the Jury Prize at the Cannes Film Festival in 2010 for 'Of Gods and Men.'
Benoît Poelvoorde, known for his comedic talent, plays the role of Eddie, a petty criminal who is nonetheless endearing. He delivers a performance in perfect sync with his partner Osman, played by Roschdy Zem. The cast is rounded out by a host of talented actors, including Chiara Mastroianni, daughter of Catherine Deneuve and Marcello Mastroianni, who adds her own unique charm.
The music was composed by the master Michel Legrand, known for his work on 'The Umbrellas of Cherbourg' and 'The Young Girls of Rochefort.' He skillfully arranges the poignant theme from 'Limelight,' filling the entire film with sparkling music.
Chaplin's family fully cooperated with the film's production. The cemetery where Chaplin was actually buried was provided as a filming location, and the furnishings in his former residence were preserved as they were. A scene featuring his granddaughter, Dolores Chaplin, playing the role of his widow was also included. Furthermore, his son, Eugene Chaplin, made an appearance as a circus manager.
Eddie and Osman Decide to Steal the Body to Fund Their Lives
1977, Vevey, a small town on the shores of Lake Geneva, Switzerland. Eddie, a boisterous character just released from prison, is met by his best friend, Osman. Osman's daughter is young, and his wife is hospitalized. They are living in poverty, unable to afford medical expenses. It is then that they hear the shocking news on television: "Comedy King Chaplin has died." Eddie decides to steal Chaplin's buried coffin and demand a ransom to improve their lives, drawing the hesitant Osman into the scheme.
However, their poorly planned heist quickly unravels, revealing one flaw after another. Compounded by a string of bad luck, their plan is on the verge of collapse. Cornered, Osman decides to make one last gamble.
'The Price of Fame' is a film that pays homage to Chaplin throughout, weaving in scenes reminiscent of his masterpieces like 'Limelight' and 'The Gold Rush.' Director Xavier Beauvois's skill shines through in this heartwarming adaptation of a true event.
'The Price of Fame'
Opening Saturday, July 18th, at YEBIS GARDEN CINEMA, Cine Switch Ginza, and other theaters nationwide.
Director & Screenplay | Xavier Beauvois
Starring | Benoît Poelvoorde, Roschdy Zem, Chiara Mastroianni
Distribution | Gaga
2014 / France / 115 min / Original Title 'La Rançon de la Gloire'
http://chaplin.gaga.ne.jp
© Marie-Julie Maille / Why Not Productions