If you were a kid growing up in the ’90s and you had Showtime or Skinemax, you probably have heard of Emmanuelle. Unfortunately, the version you knew, likely the terrible Krista Allen-led Emmanuelle in Space movies, is far from what the franchise is best recognized for. First released in 1974 and starring the gorgeous Sylvia Kristel, Emmanuelle was the first in a series of erotic film adaptations of Emmanuelle Arsan’s book. Like the novel, the X-rated movie pushed the boundaries of French cinema and became a smash hit. Loads of cheap knockoffs followed, but now a reboot that should be taken seriously is on the way.
The new Emmanuelle stars Noémie Merlant, known for her acclaimed performances in Portrait of a Lady On Fire, The Innocent, and Tár. In true Emmanuelle fashion, the story centers on an erotic journey and search for pleasure, this time in Hong Kong. What sets this film apart from the rest is that it’s entirely driven by women, including director Audrey Diwan (Happening) who co-wrote the screenplay with Planetarium filmmaker Rebecca Zlotowski.
Also in the cast are Naomi Watts, Will Sharpe, Jamie Campbell Bower, Chacha Huang, and Anthony Wong.
SYNOPSIS: Emmanuelle (Merlant) is in search of a lost pleasure. She flies alone to Hong Kong on a business trip. In this sensual global city, where she initiates numerous encounters, she meets Kei, a man who constantly eludes her.
Emmanuelle will have its world premiere as the Opening Night film at the San Sebastián Film Festival in September.
