Goodfellas Unveils ‘Venus Electrificata’ at Paris Film Market

Goodfellas has announced its acquisition of world sales rights for the intriguing period drama, Vénus Electrificata, directed by Pierre Salvadori. Set against the backdrop of the early 20th-century Paris art scene, the film features a captivating cast including Pio Marmaï, Anaïs Demoustier, Gilles Lellouche, and Vimala Pons. The company is promoting the film at the 28th Unifrance Rendez-Vous, which commenced today and runs until January 20, 2024.

In Vénus Electrificata, Marmaï portrays Antoine, a painter grappling with profound loss and alcoholism following the death of his wife, Irène. His struggles intensify as he blames himself for her passing. Demoustier plays Suzanne, a destitute sideshow performer masquerading as a clairvoyant. Seeking a connection to his deceased wife, Antoine consults Suzanne, who reluctantly agrees to assist him under the pretense of her abilities, while receiving financial support from Antoine’s art dealer, Armand, played by Lellouche.

The narrative unfolds as Suzanne stages improvised hypnosis sessions, claiming to channel Irène. This ruse leads to an unexpected emotional bond between the characters, adding depth to the story. Additionally, the ensemble cast features Gustave Kervern and Madeleine Baudot, enhancing the film’s rich storytelling.

Salvadori, known for his previous work on the romantic action comedy The Trouble With You, co-wrote the screenplay for Vénus Electrificata alongside Benjamin Charbit and Benoît Graffin. The original concept was developed with contributions from Rebecca Zlotowski and Robin Campillo. Production is led by Philippe Martin at Les Pelléas Films, which has gained recognition this awards season for its involvement in Iranian director Jafar Panahi’s acclaimed film, It Was Just An Accident.

Co-producers include Sandrine Dumas at Paris-based Pio & Co, Jacques-Henri Bronckart, and Tatjana Kozar from Belgium’s Versus Production, along with Salvadori under his Tovo Films banner. French broadcaster France 2 is also part of the project, with David Thion from Les Pelléas Films credited as an associate producer.

The French distribution rights have been secured by Diaphana, which plans to release the film under the title La Venus Electrique. The Benelux rights have been acquired by O’Brother, affiliated with Versus Production. Goodfellas is currently showcasing a promotional reel for the film, which is in post-production and set to debut at film festivals in late spring to early summer.

In addition to Vénus Electrificata, Goodfellas is also focusing on sales for Claire Denis’ The Fence and Arnaud Desplechin’s Two Pianos during the Unifrance Paris Rendez-Vous. The company has an exciting lineup of international titles, including Cristian Mungiu’s Fjord, Hanna Bergholm’s Nightborn, and Hirokazu Kore-eda’s Sheep in the Box.