After a 15-year hiatus, Sylvain Chomet, the visionary behind The Triplets of Belleville and The Illusionist, is making his long-awaited return to animation with The Magnificent Life of Marcel Pagnol. Set for release in France on October 15, 2025, the first image of this highly anticipated film has finally been unveiled, giving fans a glimpse of what could be Chomet's most personal and visually rich work to date. The film is already being tipped as a contender for Cannes 2025, possibly even in competition, and for good reason.
The film's plot centers on the renowned French playwright and filmmaker Marcel Pagnol. Set in 1955, The Magnificent Life of Marcel Pagnol follows the 60-year-old artist as he reflects on his life and career while grappling with self-doubt and a failing memory. When ELLE magazine commissions him to write a column about his childhood, Pagnol revisits his past with the help of a magical apparition of his younger self, “Little Marcel.” Together, they relive his most cherished memories, weaving a nostalgic and magical journey through the artist's life. It's a story ripe with emotion and introspection—a perfect match for Chomet's delicate, hand-drawn animation style.
Chomet's films have always been a celebration of traditional animation, and The Magnificent Life of Marcel Pagnol promises to continue that legacy. The first image showcases the vibrant and textured visuals we've come to expect from the filmmaker, with a dreamlike quality that brings the essence of Pagnol's France to life. His unique visual storytelling is sure to elevate this deeply personal narrative, making it a must-see for both animation lovers and fans of French cinema.
In addition to working on Pagnol, Chomet lent his talents to a Looney Tunes-inspired Joker sequence for Joker: Folie à Deux, demonstrating his versatility as an artist. But it's The Magnificent Life of Marcel Pagnol that has the film world buzzing. With its October 2025 release set in France, this passion project could very well be Chomet's triumphant return to the heights of animation.
This is not just a film to watch—it's a cinematic event to look forward to.
