Cézanne et moi is a historical comedy-drama directed and written by Danièle Thompson. Released in 2016, this feature film looks back at the passionate relationship, made up of admiration and conflict, between two major figures of the 19th century: painter Paul Cézanne and writer Émile Zola. Starring Guillaume Canet and Guillaume Gallienne, the film will be available for streaming on HBO Max in August 2025, giving new visibility to this artistic and friendly fresco.
The trailer highlights the confrontations and reunions between Cézanne and Zola, against a backdrop of artistic rivalry and indestructible friendship.
Cézanne et moi will be broadcast on HBO Max from August 27, 2025.
Synopsis: Paul Cézanne and Émile Zola met as teenagers and became inseparable. Together, they shared their dreams, their revolts and their passion for art and literature. But as the years went by, their destinies diverged: Zola rose to fame, while Cézanne remained misunderstood. Their friendship, based on admiration and jealousy, develops into a tormented relationship of conflict, admiration and loyalty.
Cézanne et moi explores the complexity of relationships between artists, through the true story of two major figures of the 19th century. The film explores inspiration, rivalry and the difficulty of reconciling ambition and loyalty. This approach places it at the crossroads of biopic and historical film, highlighting the tensions between art, literature and public recognition.
Guillaume Canet plays Émile Zola, the renowned naturalist writer, while Guillaume Gallienne lends his features to the painter Paul Cézanne, misunderstood by his contemporaries. Their on-screen confrontation illustrates the emotional intensity of their relationship. Alice Pol completes the cast with a role that reflects the intimate world of both artists.
This film could appeal to viewers interested in artist biographies, tales of friendship and historical frescoes. Those who have enjoyed films such as Renoir, Van Gogh or La Passion Van Gogh may find similar themes, focusing on the creation and human relationships behind the masterpieces.
Danièle Thompson's film, featuring the intertwined destinies of Cézanne and Zola, questions the link between artistic genius and public recognition. Through its visual approach and intimate storytelling, Cézanne et moi sheds light on an important page in French cultural history. Its broadcast on HBO Max in 2025 will enable viewers to rediscover this work centered on the friendship and rivalry between two emblematic creators.
This article is based on information available online; we have not yet viewed the film or series mentioned.
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