When it comes to biopics, few lives are as captivating as Charles Aznavour’s, and Monsieur Aznavour, directed by Mehdi Idir and Grand Corps Malade, delivers a sweeping portrayal of the legendary French singer. Hitting theaters this Wednesday, the biopic takes viewers on a nostalgic journey from Aznavour’s humble beginnings to his rise as a global sensation. But how well does it capture the essence of this monumental artist?
A Rollercoaster of Triumphs and Trials
The movie does its best to condense the sprawling life of Aznavour into a two-hour cinematic experience. But for hardcore fans, this may feel like a whirlwind tour, leaving out certain beloved details from the singer’s rich and complex story. Yet, even with the necessary omissions, Monsieur Aznavour biopic is an emotional ride, packed with moments of intense highs and heartbreaking lows. Whether you’re familiar with his music or not, the film is bound to tug at your heartstrings, making it a must-watch on the big screen.
For those eager for a deeper dive into Aznavour’s artistic legacy, make sure to explore our Critics’ Reviews section after watching the film to get a broader perspective on how well it resonates with different audiences.
Tahar Rahim’s Transformative Role in the Monsieur Aznavour Biopic
One of the most talked-about aspects of Monsieur Aznavour is the incredible performance by Tahar Rahim, who steps into Aznavour’s shoes with an astonishing level of dedication. Rahim wasn’t initially on the casting radar, but through his connection with Jean-Rachid, Aznavour’s son-in-law, he secured the role.
In interviews, Rahim shared his initial hesitation about taking on the iconic figure: “I fall off my chair because I don’t see any physical resemblance. I’m not a singer at all. I was extremely skeptical.” But as he immersed himself in archival footage and documentaries about Aznavour, Rahim found himself more excited than fearful. “The challenge took over the fear,” he explained.
Rahim’s transformation didn’t stop at just understanding the man—he made it his mission to be Aznavour. Despite the production hiring a vocal imitator, Rahim was determined to sing the songs himself:
“Yes, it’s me singing. In musical biopics, you usually hire an imitator. I told them, ‘Fine, have him, but I’ll still sing everything myself. You can overlay the imitator’s voice, but let me try.’”
What followed was a grueling training regimen, with Rahim committing to up to eight hours of vocal lessons each week for six months for this Charles Aznavour film.
His efforts were so successful that his coach, originally skeptical, had a change of heart: “I think you can do it yourself. I’ve heard the imitator, but I think you can pull it off,” Rahim recalled. Still, certain parts of the film required sound mixing to match Aznavour’s distinct voice, especially the high notes. “In the lower registers, I was pretty close, but when I hit the high notes, my voice sounded too much like me and not enough like him.”
A Love Letter to an Icon
As much as Monsieur Aznavour is about the singer’s career, it’s also a tribute to his perseverance. Born to immigrant parents, Aznavour faced relentless criticism early on for his looks, stature, and unique voice. But against all odds, he built an unforgettable legacy, transforming his vulnerabilities into strengths that resonated with millions.
This biopic stands as a powerful reminder of how resilience and authenticity can defy critics and how one man’s art can forever alter the cultural landscape. So, if you’re heading to the cinema this week, make sure you don’t miss this stirring tribute.
Stay Updated with CineCinnati
Can’t get enough of biopics and movie news? Head over to our Latest News for more insights, and don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter to stay in the loop with our film recommendations and reviews.
