Directed by Bertrand Tavernier and co-written with Christophe Blain, Quai d'Orsay is a political comedy released in 2013, adapted from the comic book by Abel Lanzac and Christophe Blain. Starring Thierry Lhermitte, Raphaël Personnaz, and Niels Arestrup, the film takes a behind-the-scenes look at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs through the eyes of a young communications officer. It will be available on Disney+ on November 7, 2025.
Young Arthur Vlaminck, a graduate of the ENA, joins the office of the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Alexandre Taillard de Worms. Between diplomatic flights of fancy and global crises, he must write the minister's speeches while learning to survive in the chaotic and vain world of the Quai d'Orsay. Between humor and satire, the film paints a sharp portrait of power and its workings.
The project was born after Bertrand Tavernier read the comic book by Abel Lanzac and Christophe Blain, inspired by Antonin Baudry's real-life experience at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The director, captivated by the modern tone, quickly acquired the adaptation rights. Filming took place in Paris and the Paris region, with a faithful reconstruction of the ministry's offices. The role of the minister, played by Thierry Lhermitte, is loosely based on Dominique de Villepin, while Niels Arestrup plays a chief of staff inspired by Pierre Vimont.
With its fast pace and humor based on power dynamics, Quai d'Orsay is perfect for fans of political comedies and rapid-fire dialogue. Tavernier's direction alternates between irony and documentary precision, offering a clear view of how a government ministry operates.
Quai d'Orsay
Film | 2013
On Disney+ November 7, 2025
Comedy | Running time: 1 hour 53 minutes
By Bertrand Tavernier | Starring Thierry Lhermitte, Raphaël Personnaz, Niels Arestrup
Nationality: France
A lively and satirical comedy, Quai d'Orsay depicts the tensions, egos, and humor of French diplomatic language.
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