Sage-Homme, a dramatic comedy starring Karin Viard, airs on France 2

Sage-Homme is a French dramatic comedy directed by Jennifer Devoldère, released in theaters in 2023. Led by Karin Viard and Melvin Boomer, the film will be broadcast on France 2 on Sunday, January 11, 2026, at 9:10 PM. Set in a hospital environment, the story follows an unexpectedly transformative journey within a vital yet often misunderstood profession, still shrouded in stereotypes.

After falling short of the entrance exam for medical school, Léopold ends up enrolling in midwifery school by default, all the while hiding the truth from his loved ones. Uncertain and bound by his preconceptions, he soon finds himself immersed in a demanding environment, predominantly female, where urgency and responsibility are the norm. His encounter with Nathalie, a seasoned midwife with a strong personality, gradually begins to shift his perspective on the profession and challenge his personal and professional beliefs.

The trailer for Sage-Homme

Originally inspired by Sage-Homme, Jennifer Devoldère aimed to challenge a traditional issue surrounding gender and career accessibility. While midwifery training opened up to men in 1982, they now make up only about 4.5% of practicing midwives, mostly working in hospitals. The film uses this reality as a backdrop to place a man in an intensely female-dominated world—a setting rarely depicted in cinema.

To ensure an authentic portrayal, the director and her team undertook extensive research, including immersing themselves in a hospital setting before the health crisis hit. This deep dive provided insights into the wide range of situations, the unpredictability of deliveries, and the often challenging social realities faced in public maternity wards. Authentic midwives and healthcare workers are featured throughout the film, adding a layer of realism that grounds the story deeply in reality.

The role of Nathalie was tailor-made for Karin Viard, who plays a central figure in the film. The actress portrays a passionate professional—demanding yet deeply committed. For the character of Léopold, a large casting process was held, bringing together over 200 candidates. Melvin Boomer was selected for his first major film role after several auditions, including a duo audition with Karin Viard.

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The film also features Théodore Levisse, known on YouTube as Theodort, who plays Yacine, Léopold's brother.

Our take on Sage-Homme:

Sage-Homme may be a family comedy rich in heartfelt values, but that doesn't mean it's a smooth or superficial film. Quite instructive and educational, it offers a thorough look into the world of midwifery—and explains why the term applies to both men and women—and leaves no stone unturned for the viewer. From straightforward cases to the most complex, from the best moments to the most challenging... we even get to witness a real childbirth, filmed in detail, showing everything.

This astutely illustrates that no two days as a midwife are alike. More importantly, it shows, just like the protagonist, how to move beyond the cliché of the female profession deemed shameful and associated with aspiring doctors. In these respects, Sage-Homme is definitely worth watching. Plus, Karin Viard continues her streak of roles portraying women with strong convictions. She’s fantastic as the outspoken head nurse, and almost alone, she’s reason enough to see the film.

Filmed in the Nancy region, particularly at Brabois Hospital in Vandœuvre-lès-Nancy, Sage-Homme authentically recreates the environment of a maternity ward, from delivery rooms to hospital corridors. Jennifer Devoldère deliberately chooses to portray the reality of the profession without sugarcoating it, including frank scenes of childbirth to stay true to the everyday truth of this life-changing experience.

Presented out of competition at the 2023 Alpe d’Huez Comedy Film Festival, this film blends social commentary with dramedy, highlighting a vital profession while exploring gender stereotypes and roles.

Sage-Homme
Film | 2023
In theaters on March 15, 2023
TV Broadcast: January 11, 2026, at 9:10 PM on France 2
Dramatic comedy | Runtime: 1h45
Directed by Jennifer Devoldère | Starring Karin Viard, Melvin Boomer
Original title: Sage-Homme
Country: France

Through the eyes of a quirky, offbeat character, Sage-Homme offers a heartfelt and authentic glimpse into the daily lives of midwives, exploring themes of tradition, dedication, and challenging societal stereotypes.

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