Secrets of State
Short description
This French thriller explores the clash between intelligence agencies and terrorist organizations. While these opposing forces fight for different ideologies, they employ similar methods of manipulation and secrecy. The story follows Alex, who leads a counter-terrorism unit for the DGSE, and Al Barad, the head of a terrorist network. Both men use people as tools in their conflict, specifically recruiting Diane, a student, and Pierre, a petty criminal. As the two recruits are indoctrinated by their respective sides, they become expendable pawns whose paths eventually cross.
Directed by Philippe Haïm, this film followed his previous projects Barracuda and Lucky Luke and the Daltons. The cast features Gérard Lanvin, Vahina Giocante, Nicolas Duvauchelle, Simon Abkarian, Rachida Brakni, and Mehdi Nebbou. Produced by France 2 Cinéma, France 3 Cinéma, and UGC Distribution, the movie had a budget of 11 million USD but earned 5 million USD at the worldwide box office. Audience reception was mixed to positive, with a rating of 6.3/10 from 3,900 votes on IMDb and a 5.8/10 rating from 121 votes on TMDB.
What's left behind the scenes
- Approximately 70% of the film was shot with a handheld camera.
- Virtually all the nuances and elements of the scenes in solitary confinement were devised by actor Nicolas Duvauchel. Director Philippe Aïm’s involvement in this process was minimal.
- The DVD features an alternate ending to the film – Alex returns home, where he is met by family and friends.
- In preparation for her role, Vahina Giocante acquired basic skills in the Arabic language. In addition, the actress developed the habits and mannerisms of her character, who, according to director and one of the scriptwriters Philippe Aïm, was to age ten years in a matter of months.
Auditions in India
Casting calls in USA
Castingi w Polsce
Кастинги в Україні
