FranceTV Distribution, a prominent French film distributor, has acquired the rights to the epic film 'Furcy.' Inspired by a true story, the film portrays the remarkable journey of a slave in a French colony who managed to secure legal emancipation prior to the definitive abolition of slavery.
Directed by Abd Al Malik, known for his award-winning debut feature 'May Allah Bless France!,' the film features an exceptional cast. Makita Samba, who had a lead role in Jacques Audiard's 'Paris 13th District,' takes on the role of Furcy, the protagonist. He is supported by Romain Duris, Ana Girardot, and Vincent Macaigne.
The script for 'Furcy' was written by Etienne Comar, whose work on 'Django' garnered critical acclaim. Comar drew inspiration from the book by Mohammed Aissaoui for this emotionally charged story. Set in 1817 on the Bourbon Island, the film unfolds the gripping tale of Furcy, who happens upon a letter of emancipation following his mother's passing. Viewing this letter as a potential means to his own liberation, Furcy embarks on a legal crusade against his master, Joseph Lory. With the assistance of an abolitionist prosecutor named Gilbert Boucher, Furcy's journey takes him from imprisonment to exile in Mauritius, as he ultimately presents his case before the Royal Court of Paris in 1846.
Director Abd Al Malik believes that portraying inspiring figures like Furcy, free from any sense of separatism, contributes to the collective identity of being French in harmony with the world. By poetically recreating the past, he aims to pave the way for a peaceful future. He shared that this struggle resonates deeply with him, as it aligns with his personal commitment to justice as an artist and citizen.
'Furcy' is a collaboration between production companies Jerico Films and Arches Films. Memento Distribution will handle its distribution in France. Alexandre René, FranceTV Distribution's VP of international cinema sales, and Julia Schulte, FranceTV Distribution's SVP of international sales, expressed their excitement about shedding light on this captivating chapter of untold French history. They believe that the film's gripping narrative not only appeals to French audiences but also extends an invitation to global viewers, making it the first French production of its kind.
Etienne Comar and Jehelmann, the producers, were captivated by the true story documented in Aissaoui's book several years ago. They found the court case surrounding Furcy's search for freedom to be a poignant subject for a film examining the issue of slavery in the former French colonies. In light of recent racist violence in France and around the world, along with the growing desire to question national narratives and demand justice, Comar and Jehelmann expressed that the time is ripe for French cinema to explore this critical theme.
'Furcy' will be officially launched for international sales by FranceTV Distribution at the European Film Market, taking place from February 15th to 21st. The film promises to captivate audiences, shedding light on a compelling narrative from French history that demands attention and reflection.
