Released in cinemas in 2025, De mauvaise foi is a comedy directed by Albéric Saint-Martin, co-written with Hubert de Torcy, and adapted from the novel Les Pieuses Combines by Réginald de Thomas Hervouët. The film stars Pascal Demolon and Philippe Duquesne in the leading roles, alongside Herrade Von Meier and a young cast. After its theatrical run, the film will be available on Canal+ starting Tuesday, January 20, 2026.
Réginald, a notary deeply committed to the ideals of traditional France, finds his world turning upside down: his ancestral castle is falling into disrepair, and the impending marriage of his daughter to an ambitious golden-boy clashes with his values. When a dying countess promises her fortune to a young bohemian artist, Réginald sees a potential remedy—one that involves transforming this unexpected heir into a model Catholic and bringing him closer to his daughter.
This clever scheme sets off a series of maneuvers, misunderstandings, and unlikely compromises, where religious convictions, financial interests, and personal feelings become intertwined. Without giving away the key twists of the story, the film constantly blurs the line between appearances and intentions, turning the notion of 'moral correctness' into a comedic playground.
The filming took place partly in Paray-le-Monial, during an actual Christian gathering. This setting allowed the crew to capture a genuine atmosphere and ground some scenes in a recognizable contemporary context. Albéric Saint-Martin decided to update the original novel for a modern audience while preserving its comedic essence, tightening the storyline into a 1 hour and 34 minutes format.
The direction draws heavily from classic French comedy, evoking influences from Philippe de Broca to the films of the Splendid troupe. It combines sharp caricature with a genuine focus on character development. Pascal Demolon delivers a portrayal of a rigid, calculating notary, while Philippe Duquesne offers a more naive counterpoint, inspired by beloved figures from French cinema.
Premiered as a special screening at the Alpe d’Huez Comedy Festival 2025, De mauvaise foi follows a long-standing tradition of satirical comedies that explore social mores. It blends keen social commentary with situational humor, all without resorting to blatant provocation.
De mauvaise foi
Film | 2025
Premiere on TV: Tuesday, January 20, 2026 on Canal+
Comedy | Runtime: 1h34
Directed by Albéric Saint-Martin | Starring Pascal Demolon, Philippe Duquesne, Herrade Von Meier
Original title: De mauvaise foi
Country: France
With its release on Canal+, De Mauvaise Foi continues to reach audiences, offering a French comedy that explores the clash between traditions, family arrangements, and modern adaptations.
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