The Reluctant Superhero, an action comedy directed by Philippe Lacheau, airs on TF1 on Sunday, April 12, 2026 at 9:10 PM. Released in theaters on February 2, 2022, the film follows a failed comedian who, after an accident and memory loss, becomes convinced he has turned into the vigilante he portrays on screen.
An Unlikely Superhero Film | 2022
In theaters: February 2, 2022
TV broadcast: TF1, Sunday, April 12, 2026 at 9:10 PM
Action, Comedy | Duration: 1h22
Directed by Philippe Lacheau | Starring Philippe Lacheau, Julien Arruti, Tarek Boudali
Nationality: France
With this feature film, Philippe Lacheau returns to territory he’s already mined, notably in Nicky Larson et le parfum de Cupidon: the subversion of well-known figures, in this case the superheroes. The premise hinges on a blurring of fiction and reality, as Cedric, a struggling aspiring actor, mistakes his role for his own identity after an accident. The character is then thrust into what he believes is a heroic mission, even though he has neither powers nor full control of the situation.
The film reunites the Bande à Fifi crew, bringing together Tarek Boudali, Julien Arruti and Élodie Fontan alongside Philippe Lacheau. This ensemble-based approach continues a dynamic already visible in other projects from the group, including 30 jours max, directed by Tarek Boudali. The cast is rounded out by Chantal Ladesou, Georges Corraface, Jean-Hugues Anglade and Rayane Bensetti.
In the writing process, Philippe Lacheau and Pierre Dudan begin with an idea conceived as a spoof of spy cinema before shifting it into the superhero realm. The character Badman is imagined as a vigilante without powers, defined more by his gadgets and costume than by any supernatural abilities. The film also leans on direct references to superhero cinema and, more broadly, to the visual language of American action filmmaking.
This logic runs through the filmmaking itself. The lead costume was designed as a realistic armor, while Philippe Lacheau explained that he and his team prioritized visual gags in building the comedy. Super-héros malgré lui was also unveiled as the opening film at the 2022 Alpe d’Huez International Comedy Film Festival, instantly anchoring it in the realm of big-screen crowd-pleasing comedy.
Phillippe Lacheau’s recent career path also included taking the helm on the animated feature LOL: qui rit sort!, before his return to a live-action cinematic project focused on action and parody.
To go further, also check out our pick of films, series and shows to watch on TV this week, our guide to releases across all platforms, and today’s selection: What to watch today on streaming.
