Xavier Giannoli's 'Lost Illusions' Premieres at Venice Film Festival
Xavier Giannoli's film adaptation of Balzac's 'Lost Illusions' premiered in competition at the 78th Venice International Film Festival. The period drama, set in 19th-century France, follows young poet Lucien as he navigates Parisian society's corruption and commodification of art, journalism, and beauty. Starring Benjamin Voisin as Lucien, the film features Cécile de France and Xavier Dolan. Giannoli, who read the novel at age 20, emphasizes the story's timeless relevance to modern capitalism, media manipulation, and the tension between artistic integrity and commercial success. Actors discuss the characters' moral compromises and systemic victimization. The film is produced by Curiosa Films, Gaumont, France 3 Cinéma, Gabriel Inc, and Umedia. Credits: Roger Arpajou, 2021.
Key facts
- Film 'Illusioni perdute' (Lost Illusions) directed by Xavier Giannoli
- Based on Honoré de Balzac's novel of the same name
- Screened in competition at the 78th Venice International Film Festival
- Set in 19th-century France, follows poet Lucien's rise and fall in Paris
- Cast includes Benjamin Voisin, Cécile de France, Xavier Dolan, Vincent Lacoste
- Giannoli read the novel at age 20 and highlights its critique of capitalism
- Actors note themes of commodification, media, and social class
- Produced by Curiosa Films, Gaumont, France 3 Cinéma, Gabriel Inc, Umedia
Entities
Artists
- Xavier Giannoli
- Benjamin Voisin
- Cécile de France
- Xavier Dolan
- Vincent Lacoste
- Honoré de Balzac
- Margherita Bordino
Institutions
- Venice International Film Festival
- Curiosa Films
- Gaumont
- France 3 Cinéma
- Gabriel Inc
- Umedia
- Artribune
Locations
- Venice
- Italy
- Paris
- France