Filming of 'Des Vivants' Begins: A Tribute to Bataclan Survivors
Jean-Xavier de Lestrade, the acclaimed director known for his poignant storytelling, has commenced filming his latest series, 'Des Vivants', on France 2. This six-episode drama, inspired by the tragic events of November 13, 2015, will focus on the experiences of seven individuals who survived the Bataclan terrorist attack. The series aims to explore themes of resilience and recovery in the aftermath of trauma.
The narrative centers around a group of friends, self-dubbed 'Potages'—a blend of the French words for 'buddies' and 'hostages'—who faced the attackers in a narrow corridor during the attack. The series will delve into their journey of healing and the bonds formed through their shared ordeal. Filming is set to take place in Paris until mid-January 2025, followed by a continuation in Hauts-de-France from February to April 2025.
De Lestrade expressed his belief that the time for fiction surrounding these events has come, stating, 'I felt that the time for fiction had come. I now had to take hold of these events to go beyond their strictly tragic, emotional or traumatic aspect.' He aims to present a narrative that emphasizes connection and values that counteract the current climate of division and conflict.
The cast includes notable actors such as Benjamin Lavernhe and Alix Poisson, alongside Antoine Reinartz, Félix Moati, and others. De Lestrade's approach to the sensitive subject matter is rooted in a desire to honor the survivors while providing a collective story that resonates with universal themes of recovery and tolerance.
