The moving life of the chansonnier: Monsieur Aznavour in the cinema!

The moving life of the chansonnier: Monsieur Aznavour in the cinema!

The new film “Monsieur Aznavour” will premiere in cinemas on May 22, 2025. This film biography is dedicated to the fascinating life and impressive career of Charles Aznavour, one of France's most important chansonniers and considered a true monument of French culture. With a running time of two and a quarter hours, the film not only shows the highs of his life, but also highlights the challenges he faced as a child of Georgian-Armenian immigrants in the Latin Quarter.

The film focuses on Aznavour's transformation from a poor outsider to a celebrated global star. Despite discrimination and racism, Aznavour prevailed thanks to his talent. The actor Tahar Rahim embodies the role of the adult Aznavour and impressively presents his rousing stage performances. Aznavour, who was born in 1924, experienced the occupation of Paris, joined the Resistance and actively campaigned for persecuted Jews.

Insight into his creative work

Charles Aznavour was not only an outstanding chansonnier; he was also a prolific composer with around 1200 songs of his own. He recorded his texts in red notebooks. Aznavour often addressed the suffering of minorities, including homosexuals and transvestites, in his songs. This social sensitivity, combined with his personal passion for music, shaped his works and contributed to his international success.

He gave his last concert at the age of 94, just two weeks before his death. Aznavour also wrote two books about his life, detailing his experiences and insights. The film not only serves as a tribute to his musical career, but also as an in-depth look at his personal weaknesses and tireless work ethic that made him a defining voice of his time.

Direction and production

The directors and screenwriters Mehdi Idir and Grands Corps Malade (Fabien Marsaud) have taken on this vision and implemented Aznavour's story sensitively, yet hauntingly. The producers from France and Belgium made sure that both the biography and the music were combined in an elaborate and thrilling film. “Monsieur Aznavour” is described as a biopic, drama and musical film and is aimed at audiences of all ages as it is rated for ages 0 and up.

Audiences will soon have the opportunity to experience this extraordinary story in the cinema and learn more about the man whose voice has touched generations and whose songs have eternal value. “Monsieur Aznavour” promises to be a true cinematic discovery of the decades-long career and life of one of the greatest chansonniers.

For more information about the film and Aznavour's life, take a look at the articles from Saarbrücken newspaper and NDR.