Not French Enough

Highlighting the cultural sensitivity in parts of Europe over government subisidies, The Guardian reports on two French producer groups that have taken a film to court for improperly requesting subsidies.

"A Very Long Engagement," Jean-Pierre Jeunet's followup to "Amélie" and also starring Audrey Tautou, opened last week in France to strong audience demand.

What is particularly interesting about this situation is observed by The Guardian:

"[The film, which] Mr Jeunet has repeatedly pointed out, is set in France, was filmed in France, is spoken in French and kept some 600 French technicians, 80 French actors and 1,500 French extras employed for more than two years."

However, the production company 2003 Productions is 34% owned by Warners France, which is owned in turn by Warner Brothers. And that is why the matter sits in front of a Paris court: it is a Hollywood production in French clothing.

Frankly, the only thing it exemplifies is the French desire for "culture" over employment. And a desire to uphold the attractiveness of countries like Romania, Germany, Bulgaria, Czech, South Africa, England and Canada. Hell, go shoot in Wales and grab some local coin as well.