Cinefrance Studios Spearheads French-Japanese Cinematic Collaborations

In the past few years, Cinefrance Studios has emerged as a driving force behind a flourishing cultural exchange between France and Japan in the film industry. Under the leadership of co-founder David Gauquié, the Paris-based production company has partnered with celebrated Japanese directors to bring their unique visions to life on the big screen.

One of Cinefrance Studios' latest projects is the fantasy film "Yoroï," starring renowned French rapper Aurélien Cotentin, also known as Orelsan. The €15-million production, which was shot primarily in Japan over three months, follows a famous French musician who retreats to the Japanese countryside and discovers a mystical samurai armor. Cinefrance Studios fully developed the project with Cotentin, who co-wrote the manga-inspired script.

The studio has also collaborated with Oscar-winning director Ryusuke Hamaguchi on his latest film, "All of a Sudden." The drama, which stars French actress Virginie Efira and Japanese model Tao Okamoto, was shot for 8 weeks in Paris and 1 week in Kyoto. Cinefrance Studios' immersive approach to development included multiple trips by Hamaguchi to France to workshop the material with local actors.

In addition to these high-profile projects, Cinefrance Studios has co-produced films by other acclaimed Japanese directors, including Kiyoshi Kurosawa's thriller "Serpent's Path" and Naomi Kawase's "Yakushima's Illusion." The company's commitment to fostering authentic cross-cultural collaborations has made it a go-to partner for Japanese filmmakers seeking to work in France.