“A few days no more” with Camille Cottin and Benjamin Biolay previewed in Lille

Filmed in the Hauts-de-France region, Julie Navarro’s film on the migration crisis and humanitarian commitment was presented to the Lille public. Its official release is scheduled for April 3.

A few days no more tells the story of a journalist, played by Benjamin Biolay, whose daily life is turned upside down when he agrees to host an Afghan refugee. Julie Navarro, who is directing her first feature film, adapted the novel by her companion, the writer Marc Salbert. The book, like the film, addresses the issue of welcoming migrants with humor and without emotional appeal.

In Lille, the theme of migration is a concerning subject. Due to its proximity to the Channel and therefore England, the northern city welcomes many migrants. Hence the filming of part of the film in this region and its preview presentation. “I was pleasantly surprised by the staging, by the way the subject is approached” reports a spectator after the screening.

And opinions on the film were unanimous that day. “Sometimes it felt like it was a documentary” explains another young woman. “This shows social facts that can happen” reacts a spectator.

A social comedy

A social drama, certain scenes are deliberately treated with humor, which does not detract from the seriousness of the subject. “It’s using a slightly lighter tone, allowing yourself a social comedy even if at times it is dramatic with the issues of Daoud’s character” explains Julie Navarro, the film’s director.

Amrullah Safi who plays Daoud, the refugee taken in by a journalist, experienced a journey similar to his character. Julie Navarro, who wanted a real migrant to play this role, took a year and a half before finding the rare gem in a restaurant. Amrullah is then a cook, he has been in France since 2016. The director is touched by his story and works on a scene with him.

An exceptional cast

He is immediately chosen. “The first time I saw the film, I cried because I had never been to the cinema. It was incredible to see myself on screen” says the young actor. For her first feature film, Julie Navarro offers herself an exceptional cast. Benjamin Biolay but also Camille Cottin. The actress plays Mathilde, head of a humanitarian association, with whom Arthur Berthier, the journalist, falls under the spell.

It is she who convinces him to welcome Daoud. Camille Cottin, who had already encountered Julie Navarro in the past during castings, accepted this role which highlights the struggles of these caregivers but also their fragility in the face of the harsh reality on the ground.

“A few days no more”, by Julie Navarro with Camille Cottin, Benjamin Biolay, Amrullah Safi – Theatrical release on April 3, 2024