Le deuxième sexe : Sur les traces de Simone de Beauvoir

This documentary explores the origins of Simone de Beauvoir's philosophical theories through a journey across the United States. By visiting locations that influenced the author, the film examines how her 1949 work on gender equality and women's independence relates to the modern world. The narrative takes the form of an American road trip that contrasts predatory capitalism with passionate love, featuring contributions from various contemporary thinkers.

The film was co-directed by Nathalie Masduraud and Valérie Urrea, following their 2024 project Le Chignon. Produced in France by companies including ARTE and CNC, the production was managed by producers Julie Guesnon Amarante and Justine Henochsberg. The cast features Noémie Merlant providing the narration and voice-over, while Simone de Beauvoir appears via archive footage. Other participants appearing as themselves include Silvia Federici, Laure Murat, Kellie Carter Jackson, and Marsha Colson.