Samba, the dramedy by Éric Toledano and Olivier Nakache, will be broadcast on ARTE on Wednesday, July 8, 2026 at 8:55 p.m.. Released in France in 2014, the film brings together Omar Sy, Charlotte Gainsbourg, Tahar Rahim and Izïa Higelin in a social narrative that blends humor, administrative precarity and personal reinvention.
Samba
Film | 2014
Airing on ARTE: Wednesday, July 8, 2026 at 8:55 p.m.
Drama-comedy | Runtime: about 2h
Directed by Éric Toledano and Olivier Nakache | Starring Omar Sy, Charlotte Gainsbourg, Tahar Rahim, Izïa Higelin
Nationality: France
Following the success of Intouchables, Éric Toledano and Olivier Nakache reunite Omar Sy for a film that blends a personal journey with a social issue. The actor portrays Samba, a Senegalese immigrant living in France for ten years, facing the challenge of obtaining papers while juggling precarious jobs.
Facing him, Charlotte Gainsbourg plays Alice, a burned-out senior executive trying to rebuild her life by volunteering with an organization that helps undocumented migrants. Their encounter pushes the film forward along two narrative threads: Samba's precarious administrative situation and Alice's personal fragility, both seeking an escape from a dead end in their respective lives.
Tahar Rahim rounds out the cast as Wilson, while Izïa Higelin portrays Manu, a seasoned volunteer with the organization. The film tackles immigration, invisible work, and burnout through a readily accessible approach, faithful to the popular, socially-minded cinema crafted by the Toledano-Nakache duo.
This TV airing could appeal to viewers who want to revisit a French film led by a recognizable cast, without turning to a streaming service. Samba isn’t for those seeking a purely light comedy, as the story remains closely tied to the administrative and social realities of its main character.
To go further, also check out our pick of the films, series and shows to watch on TV this week, our guide to releases across all platforms, and today’s selection of what to watch on streaming.
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