Recently, French cinema has found a new love on biopic as French spectators love to be told the story of its heroes. After "La Vie en Rose", "Coco Avant Chanel", "De Gaulle", "The Odyssey" (L'Odyssée) is another must-see biopic about the famous oceanographer and explorer Jacques Cousteau (played by Lambert Wilson), renowned for his groundbreaking work in underwater exploration.

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"The Odyssey" (L'Odyssée), directed by Jérôme Salle, is a biopic that tells the story of Jacques-Yves Cousteau's life and career, from his early days as a naval officer to his later years as a renowned explorer and filmmaker aboard The Calypso. The film focuses especially on Cousteau's relationship with his family and the tensions that arise between his passion for the ocean and his responsibilities to his loved ones.

The film received very positive reviews from critics, with some praising Wilson's performance, the film's beautiful cinematography and the music score from Alexandre Desplat.

Exploring Lambert Wilson's Preparation and Execution to become Cousteau

Portraying Cousteau in "The Odyssey" was a challenge for Wilson, as the iconic figure's personality and persona were well-known to the public. To prepare for the role, Wilson watched Cousteau's documentaries, watched interviews of his old crew on the Calypso and read Cousteau's books. He also spent time with Cousteau's family to gain insight into his personality and mannerisms.

Wilson's execution of the role was praised by critics, who commended his transformation into Cousteau and his ability to convey the passion and drive that the explorer was known for.

One of the highlights of "The Odyssey" is the transformation of Wilson's character from a driven explorer who lives for his aquatic adventures to a man who recognizes the importance of family and relationships.

Wilson's ability to convey Cousteau's struggles as a man torn between his passion for the sea and his responsibility to his family is what makes his portrayal of the explorer stand out.

Lambert Wilson, who is he?

Lambert Wilson, born on August 3, 1958, is a French actor, singer, and producer who has been contributing to the film and theater industry since the 1970s. He started his career on stage before transitioning to movies, and he has since become a renowned actor in France and beyond.

Wilson's notable contributions to the film industry include his roles in popular French movies like "Of Gods and Men," "On connaît la chanson", as well as American Blockbusters "The Matrix Reloaded" as the Merovigian and "Catwoman."

Throughout his career, Wilson has also contributed to French theater. He has also released several music albums, showcasing his versatility as an artist.

Read more about Lambert Wilson's career, from France to Hollywood

The Cast of 'The "Odyssey"

Apart from Lambert Wilson, the supporting cast of "The Odyssey" includes Pierre Niney as Philippe Cousteau, Cousteau's son, and Audrey Tautou as Simone Melchior Cousteau, Cousteau's wife.

Niney's performance as Philippe, who struggles to find his place in his father's world, is noteworthy, and Tautou's portrayal of Simone, who supports her husband but at the same time longs for a different life, is also commendable. The supporting cast's performances contribute to the film's emotional impact and make it a well-rounded movie experience.

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Jacques Cousteau, a life at sea

Jacques-Yves Cousteau, born on June 11, 1910, was a French explorer, environmentalist, and filmmaker who dedicated his life to underwater exploration and promoting ocean conservation. Cousteau is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in the history of diving. He is credited with several underwater innovations that laid the foundation for modern-day scuba diving, including the aqualung apparatus and underwater cameras.

Cousteau's love for the ocean began at an early age, and he pursued his passion by studying marine biology and oceanography. He also served in the French Navy during World War II, where he developed some of his groundbreaking diving techniques. Cousteau's passion for exploration led him to travel the world's oceans, documenting his discoveries in several documentaries and television programs. He used his media influence to raise awareness about the importance of ocean conservation, advocating for policies that would protect marine life and the underwater environment.

Cousteau was not without his imperfections. He was known for his fiery temper, which could sometimes cause tension with his crew and associates. However, there was one person who seemed to have a calming influence on Cousteau: his wife, Simone. The two were married for over 60 years and shared a love for adventure and exploration. Simone was an integral part of Cousteau's career, serving as his editor and advisor, and together they created some of the most iconic images of the underwater world that have been enjoyed by audiences around the world.

Cousteau passed away on June 25, 1997, but his legacy lives on, inspiring generations to follow in his footsteps and protect the ocean. In recognition of his work, Cousteau was awarded several international honors, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom in the United States and the Order of Merit in France. Today, the Jacques Cousteau Society continues to promote ocean conservation and awareness in Cousteau's honor, reminding us of the importance of protecting our oceans and preserving our planet's natural heritage.

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