“Prodigieuses”: the story of the Pleynet sisters on the big screen
The film “Prodigieuses” is in cinemas, telling the story of sisters Claire and Jeanne Vallois, played by Camille Razat and Mélanie Robert.
Inspired by the real lives of pianists Audrey and Diane Pleynet, the feature film directed by Frédéric and Valentin Potier explores their musical journey marked by personal challenges.
A life dedicated to music
Audrey and Diane Pleynet began playing the piano as children, supported by their father. Trained at the Conservatoire National de Région de Strasbourg, then at the prestigious Staatliche Musikhochschule in Karlsruhe, their musical ascent was brought to an abrupt halt by a rare genetic disease. Despite this, the twins reinvented themselves by playing two pianos simultaneously, exploring a new musical dynamic.
Their career has been marked by many highlights, including a performance under the Eiffel Tower for the Telethon in 2000 and a sold-out recital in Tokyo. Their story is documented in Caroline Veslot‘s “Diane & Audrey : tout pour la musique”.
A faithful adaptation for the big screen
The Pleynet sisters contributed to the making of “Prodigieuses“, sharing anecdotes that enrich the story. The filmmakers chose to modernize the story while remaining faithful to the spirit of the twins. According to media outlet Naja 21, the sisters were surprised by scenes in the film reflecting intimate moments they had not told anyone about.
Outstanding performance
Camille Razat and Mélanie Robert, who are very close in life, play the sisters with obvious complicity. Although they took eight months of intensive piano lessons, understudies were used for the musical sequences. Their performance conveys the emotion and resilience at the heart of this story.
Despite some criticism, notably of the choice of Franck Dubosc for a dramatic role, the film celebrates sisterhood, perseverance and the love of music, and delivers a moving tale. ” Prodigieuses” is a tribute to female self-sacrifice and talent.
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