Movies - Once upon a time Michel Legrand: An exceptional documentary film in cinemas

By Mulder, 10 november 2024

On December 4, the documentary Il était une fois Michel Legrand, directed by David Hertzog Dessites, will hit theaters. A true tribute to one of the greatest composers of the 20th century, this film celebrates the life and work of an unclassifiable artist, who left his mark on music, cinema and popular culture worldwide. Michel Legrand, with his flamboyant melodies and tireless creativity, remains a key figure whose influence endures.

Born in Paris in 1932, Michel Legrand revealed an exceptional talent for music from an early age. He entered the Paris Conservatoire at the age of 10, where he met prestigious teachers such as Nadia Boulanger. He soon established himself as a prodigy. His career, which spanned more than 70 years, saw him compose over 200 film scores and numerous songs that have become cult favorites. His most memorable works include the soundtracks to Jacques Demy's Les Parapluies de Cherbourg and Les Demoiselles de Rochefort, and Barbra Streisand's Yentl. Winner of three Oscars, he has also collaborated with such legends as Miles Davis, Charles Aznavour, Frank Sinatra and Natalie Dessay.

This documentary, presented in the Cannes Classics category in 2024, doesn't just retrace Michel Legrand's brilliant career. David Hertzog Dessites, who spent two years at the artist's side, offers an unprecedented immersion into the intimacy of this complex and passionate man. The film reveals rare and precious moments, including sequences in which Legrand is filmed composing. These moments show an artist in constant quest of perfection, a man both visionary and vulnerable, ready to reveal his doubts and reflections.

The documentary is also distinguished by its wealth of exceptional archive footage. Concert excerpts, key collaborations with jazz and chanson figures, and testimonials from close friends and collaborators enrich this lively portrait. Rare images, such as those of Michel Legrand alongside Stan Getz, show the extent of his influence and connections in the world of music. The film also sheds light on lesser-known aspects of his career, such as his beginnings in French chanson in the 1950s, and his involvement in major Hollywood productions.

David Hertzog Dessites, who shares an almost filial relationship with Michel Legrand, has created a tribute imbued with sincerity. By capturing the artist's last moments on stage, notably during the ciné-concert at the Philharmonie de Paris in December 2018, the director offers a poignant and majestic ending to this film. The documentary becomes a true celebration of Michel Legrand's life and musical legacy, while revealing the man behind the artist.

Distributed by Dulac Distribution, Il était une fois Michel Legrand is an invitation to rediscover a musical genius and explore the world of an artist who never stopped pushing the boundaries of his art. Both a tribute and a testimony, this film is a must-see for all music and film lovers. In cinemas from December 4, immerse yourself in the world of this eternal Peter Pan, whose melodies continue to lull generations to sleep.

Synopsis
Music is life. Michel Legrand entered the Paris Conservatoire at the age of 10 and quickly established himself as a gifted musician. 3 Oscars and 75 years later, he performed for the first time at the Philharmonie de Paris in front of an enthusiastic audience. From song to film, this true virtuoso has never ceased to push back the boundaries of his art, collaborating with legends such as Miles Davis, Jacques Demy, Charles Aznavour, Barbra Streisand and Natalie Dessay. His boundless energy made him one of the most acclaimed composers of the century, whose flamboyant melodies continue to enchant us.

Once upon a time Michel Legrand
Written and directed by David Hertzog Dessites
Produced by : Martine de Clermont-Tonnerre, Thierry de Clermont-Tonnerre, David Hertzog Dessites
With the participation of Michel Legrand
Music by Michel Legrand
Editing: Margot Icher, Vincent Morvan, David Hertzog Dessites
Production companies: MACT Productions, Le Sous-Marin Productions
Distributed by Dulac Distribution (France)
Release date: December 4, 2024 (France)
Running time: 109 minutes