The Whims of the Child King, a historical comedy directed by Michel Leclerc, will hit VOD on October 27, 2026, after its French-wide release on June 24. The film brings together Artus, Julia Piaton, Nemo Schiffman, Niels Hamel-Brochen and Franck Dubosc for an adventure set at the dawn of Louis XIV’s reign.
The film will be available for digital purchase starting October 22, 2026, ahead of its on-demand release five days later. This new availability lets viewers at home discover this dramedy that blends historical figures, theatre and a swashbuckling tale.
In 1651, the Fronde threatens the crown and Louis XIV is still a teenager. To shield his son, Anne of Austria orders a look-alike to take his place. D'Artagnan entrusts the young king to Cyrano de Bergerac, charged with keeping him hidden among the troupe of Madeleine Béjart and Molière.
Far from the royal court, Louis discovers the theater, collaborative labor, and a life very different from the one he was meant to lead. Meanwhile, Cyrano and Madeleine Béjart draw closer around the young Molière. The story thus imagines a meeting of several major 17th‑century figures, taking deliberate liberties with history.
Artus stars as Cyrano de Bergerac, while Julia Piaton brings Madeleine Béjart to life. Nemo Schiffman takes on the role of Molière, and Niels Hamel-Brochen embodies the young Louis XIV. Franck Dubosc, Doria Tillier, and Suzanne de Baecque complete the cast.
Written by Michel Leclerc and Baya Kasmi, Les Caprices de l’Enfant Roi was screened at the Festival de Cannes 2026, as part of the Cinéma de la Plage, ahead of its nationwide release.
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