Catherine Deneuve will star in “Skin of Man,” a film adaptation of a successful comic that explores gender issues. Directed by Léa Domenach, the project features a notable cast, including singer Pomme and Eddy de Pretto. The story follows Bianca, a woman in Renaissance Italy who acquires the ability to transform into a man, allowing her to challenge societal norms. The film, set to begin production in September, aims to provoke discussions on morality and identity. Additionally, a stage adaptation will premiere in January.
Catherine Deneuve, the iconic star known for her role in “Donkey Skin” back in 1970, is set to return to the silver screen in a film that echoes the legacy of Jacques Demy’s celebrated musical. This upcoming project is titled “Skin of Man,” a film adaptation of a popular comic book that has captivated audiences.
The comic book “Skin of Man” has achieved remarkable success, selling over 100,000 copies and receiving numerous accolades. Directed and written by Léa Domenach, who previously collaborated with Deneuve on “Bernadette,” this film adaptation promises to bring the compelling story to life.
According to reports from Satellifacts, Deneuve is confirmed as part of the film’s ensemble cast, with production set to commence in September. The film will also mark the return of singer Pomme (Claire Pommet) to the film industry, alongside Eddy de Pretto, who recently appeared in the Belgian film “Vigilante.” Additionally, the talented Karin Viard and Laurent Stocker will join the cast, enhancing this musical endeavor.
In an exciting announcement, Catherine Deneuve is also slated to preside over the 50th César ceremony scheduled for next February.
A Musical Comedy That Explores Gender Issues
In an interview from October 2023, Léa Domenach shared insights into the project, stating, “I’m collaborating again with screenwriter Clémence Dargent. We’re adapting the comic book Skin of Man, which gained significant attention a few years back, created by Hubert and Zanzim. This will be a musical, and like with Bernadette, it’s quite a risk!“
Domenach elaborated, “It’s a politically charged comic that tackles themes such as gender, individual identity, and the rise of religious fascism. This is my major upcoming project.“
The comic’s success was undeniable, with over 100,000 copies sold within a year of its release in 2020. Crafted by the late Hubert and Zanzim, this work has garnered multiple awards, establishing its significant reputation.
Published by Glénat, “Skin of Man” presents an intriguing narrative that carries a potent message regarding gender and patriarchy. The story unfolds in Renaissance Italy, following Bianca, a young woman from an affluent family. Her parents arrange for her to marry Giovanni, a charming and wealthy merchant. Despite the seemingly favorable circumstances, Bianca is disheartened about marrying someone she barely knows. Unbeknownst to her, she inherits a powerful secret passed down through generations of women in her family: the “skin of man.”
Upon donning this transformative skin, Bianca becomes Lorenzo, enjoying all the privileges of a stunning young man. This new identity allows her to explore the male world incognito, enabling her to understand her fiancé better. In her male guise, Bianca breaks free from societal constraints and embarks on a journey of love and self-discovery.
Her story prompts deep reflections on morality, as highlighted by her publisher Glénat: “The moral dilemmas of the Renaissance resonate with our current era, raising questions like: why should women’s sexuality differ from men’s? Why must their pleasure and freedom face contempt and coercion? How can morality be wielded as a tool of domination that is both harsh and unconscious?“
Redefining Our Perspectives on Gender and Sexuality
Through a vibrant and clever narrative reminiscent of a Billy Wilder comedy, Hubert and Zanzim skillfully examine our perceptions of gender and sexuality, among other themes. Blending religion with sexuality, morality with humor, and nobility with frankness, “Skin of Man” invites audiences to challenge moral constraints and passionately pursue love.
Furthermore, fans can anticipate an additional adaptation in the form of a stage play set to debut on January 23, featuring Laure Calamy in the lead role.
The theatrical rendition of “Skin of Man” will take place at the Théâtre Montparnasse in Paris, featuring a talented cast including Emmanuelle Rivière, Valentin Rolland, Samira Sedira, Clément Simounet, Aurore Streich, Adrien Urso, Regis Vallée, and Vincent Vanhée. The adaptation and direction will be handled by Léna Breban, with songs composed by Ben Mazué and choreography by Leïla Ka.