The Saintes court in Charente-Maritime, setting for the multi-awarded film “Anatomy of a Fall”

Justine Triet’s feature film, Palme d’Or at Cannes in 2023, continues to be successful internationally. The Saintes court served as the setting for the dramatic film. A pride for the Charente town.

It was a red carpet that was rolled out for Anatomy of a fall. The film by French director Justine Triet won the Palme d’Or at Cannes before winning two Golden Globes in early January. The feature film does not stop there, with eleven nominations for the Césars and five for the Oscars. An international success for this legal drama which takes place, in part, in the Saintes court. The building served as the setting for the trial scenes of the film’s protagonist.

A filming during which real palace officials were able to be extras. “It’s a new world that we’re discovering and it’s quite exciting. We are really at the heart of the film. I was with the actors, the director was right behind.”explains Judicaël Ajorque, clerk at the Saintes judicial court and silhouette in the film.

The court regularly serves as a setting for the 7th art, as for the series Barbara’s Law, in 2013. The Assize Court room is remarkable for its aesthetics. Carved wooden benches adorn this bright room with a high ceiling.

The film left some memories of its passage, with the agreement of the owners of the place. “We accepted that modifications be made if they did not betray the solemn character of the place.“, explains Jérôme Hars, president of the Saintes judicial court.

The seats were covered in green suede. On the wall, an imposing tapestry remained hanging. It represents an allegory of Justice with mythological inspirations. A painting that the court wishes to preserve for its aesthetics. Anatomy of a fall provided an international spotlight on the city. Cinema professionals hope to see spinoffs on the local industry, with, perhaps, new French and foreign projects.