Brigitte Bardot, an icon of French cinema, had a significant professional relationship with the esteemed director Marc Allégret. Their collaboration played a crucial role in shaping Bardot's early career, helping to establish her as one of France's most beloved actresses. Allégret, known for his keen eye for talent and his ability to bring out the best in his actors, provided Bardot with some of her first leading roles, laying the foundation for her future stardom.

The Best of French Cinema on TV5MONDE

For those who appreciate the richness of French cinema, TV5MONDE USA is the premier destination. The 24-hour French network broadcasts over 150 French movies annually, along with programming that celebrates French art, culture, and fashion. A TV5MONDE  subscription also provides access to an extensive library of French films and TV shows on TV5MONDEplus, ensuring that viewers can enjoy the best of French cinema anytime. With TV5MONDE, the captivating performances of France's finest actresses are just a click away, bringing the magic of French film to American audiences.

Looking to watch French films with Brigitte Bardot? Tune in TV5MONDEplus stream Une Parisienne and En effeuillant la Marguerite. View the entire Brigitte Bardot collection, one of French cinema's greatest actresses on the French streaming platform TV5MONDEplus here.

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Bardot: Mademoiselle Striptease, her first title role

Bardot and Allégret collaborated on two notable films: "Mademoiselle Striptease" (En effeuillant la marguerite) and "Futures Vedettes." In "Mademoiselle Striptease", Bardot plays a young woman who flees her stifling family to pursue a more liberated life in Paris, inadvertently becoming a sensation as a striptease artist. Her character's journey of self-discovery and rebellion resonated with audiences, showcasing Bardot's natural charisma and screen presence. In "Futures Vedettes," Bardot portrays a student at a prestigious music academy, navigating the complexities of ambition, love, and rivalry. Her role in this film also demonstrated her versatility and ability to capture the nuances of youthful aspiration and emotion. On set, Bardot and Allégret developed a strong professional rapport. Allégret's guidance and encouragement allowed Bardot to explore and expand her acting abilities, setting the stage for her subsequent success.

Read more: How a Young Brigitte Bardot rose to fame

Allégret-Vadim-Bardot: a legendary trio

Marc Allégret played a pivotal role in Brigitte Bardot's rise to fame. Before working with him, Bardot had only been cast in secondary roles. It was Allégret who recognized her potential and gave her the opportunity to shine in leading roles. This crucial career breakthrough came at a time when Bardot was still establishing herself in the industry. Allégret's decision to cast her in prominent roles not only showcased her talent but also boosted her visibility and popularity. Moreover, Allégret had Roger Vadim as his assistant during this period. Vadim would later become a central figure in Bardot's life, both professionally and personally. Vadim directed Brigitte Bardot in "And God Created Woman (Et dieu créa la femme)," a film that catapulted her to international stardom, and they also married, further intertwining their professional and personal lives. The mentorship of Allégret and the subsequent influence of Roger Vadim were instrumental in shaping Bardot's illustrious career.

Stream Vadim's and Bardot's 1956 comedy "Plucking the Daisy (En effeuillant la Marguerite) on TV5MONDEplus now where Bardot runs away to Paris and enters a striptease competition to earn some month, capturing the attention of a fellow suitor.

Delon, Belmondo, Jourdan: Allégret, the talent-maker

Marc Allégret had a remarkable talent for discovering and nurturing new talent. Throughout his career, he provided many actors with their first significant roles, helping to launch the careers of some of France's most renowned performers. Among those who benefited from Allégret's keen eye for talent were Bernard Blier, Louis Jourdan, Danièle Delorme, Gérard Philipe, Daniel Gélin, Jean-Paul Belmondo, Alain Delon, Patrick Dewaere, and Johnny Hallyday. Each of these actors went on to achieve great success in their respective careers, becoming household names in French cinema. Allégret's ability to recognize and develop emerging talent was a testament to his skill as a director and his lasting impact on the film industry.

There's no doubt the collaboration between Brigitte Bardot and Marc Allégret was a significant chapter in both of their career. Allégret's mentorship and the opportunities he provided were instrumental in launching Bardot's career, allowing her to transition from secondary roles to leading lady. Their work together not only highlighted Bardot's talent but also cemented her status as a cultural icon and a sex symbol. Additionally, Allégret's legacy as a talent scout and mentor is evident in the successful careers of the many actors he introduced to the film industry.

For fans of French cinema, platforms like TV5MONDE offer a treasure trove of content, celebrating the rich history and enduring appeal of French film and its iconic stars like Brigitte Bardot.

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Want to watch Johnny Hallyday on the big screen? Now streaming on TV5MONDEplus, the 1963 comedy "Where are you from Johnny (D'où viens-tu Johnny ?)" about a young rock musician who finds himself involved with a gang, and don't miss the 1969 comedic western "Le spécialiste (The specialists").