Episode 500: Celebrating France on Film

Category: French Culture

This episode features our frequent and very popular guest Elyse Rivin. If you enjoy her episodes, please consider supporting her on Patreon.

Can you believe we’ve reached 500 episodes of the Join Us in France travel podcast? It’s been an incredible journey, filled with memorable moments, diverse topics, and wonderful guest contributions. Join us as Elyse Rivin and Annie Sargent we celebrate this milestone and reflect on the evolution of our podcast. We decided to celebrate France on Film for this anniversary episode. It might seem like a strange choice for a podcast that prides itself on keeping things real, but movies are so much fun!

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500 Episodes of Enjoying France

When we started, we focused heavily on Paris, knowing it’s a top destination for many listeners. However, over time, we expanded our horizons to cover lesser-known gems across France, encouraging travelers to explore beyond the usual hotspots. Our goal has always been to provide rich, engaging content that broadens our listeners' understanding and appreciation of France.

We’ve covered a vast array of topics, from historical biographies like that of Maurice Ravel to the impacts of over-tourism. We’ve also ventured into community building, with a thriving Facebook group and a supportive Patreon community. These platforms have enabled us to connect more personally with our listeners, offering tailored advice and creating itineraries that cater to individual needs.

Celebrating France on Film

In this celebratory episode, we delve into movies that capture the essence of France. Films can be a fantastic way to prepare for a trip, offering cultural insights, historical contexts, and scenic previews of the country's beauty. Here are some of the popular films we discussed:

1. Ratatouille – This delightful Pixar animation about a rat aspiring to be a chef in Paris is a parody of French culinary culture and offers a charming, humorous look at Parisian life.

2. Midnight in Paris – Woody Allen’s love letter to Paris, this film beautifully portrays the city’s magic and allure, especially during the 1920s, with real exterior shots of iconic locations.

3. Amélie – A whimsical and visually stunning film set in Montmartre, it provides an enchanting view of Paris through the eyes of a quirky young woman.

4. The Da Vinci Code – Featuring thrilling scenes in Paris, this adaptation of Dan Brown’s novel includes breathtaking shots of the Louvre and other historic sites.

5. Les Misérables (2012) – This musical film adaptation of Victor Hugo’s novel is an epic portrayal of revolutionary France, capturing the essence of Paris in the 19th century.

6. Dunkirk – A gripping World War II drama by Christopher Nolan, it showcases the historic evacuation of Allied soldiers from the beaches of Dunkirk, France.

7. Inception – While not primarily about France, this film includes stunning scenes filmed in Paris, showcasing landmarks like the Bir-Hakeim bridge.

8. Taken – This action-packed thriller set in Paris features Liam Neeson on a mission to rescue his kidnapped daughter, highlighting various Parisian locales.

9. La Vie en Rose – A biographical film about the legendary French singer Édith Piaf, it offers a deep dive into her life and the vibrant Parisian music scene.

10. Moulin Rouge! (2001) – A musical romantic drama set in the famous Moulin Rouge cabaret in Paris, it blends historical elements with a fantastical narrative.

The evolution of our podcast has been a labor of love. From meticulously planning episodes to conducting pre-recording meetings with potential guests, we've strived to keep our content fresh and engaging. The inclusion of guest contributions and trip reports has enriched our show, offering diverse perspectives and firsthand travel experiences.

A Community of Francophiles

Building a community has been another rewarding aspect of our journey. Our listeners have become more than just an audience; they are active participants who contribute ideas, share experiences, and support us through platforms like Patreon.

Looking forward, we plan to continue exploring the multifaceted beauty of France, one episode at a time. Here’s to another 500 episodes of discovery, connection, and celebration. Thank you for being part of our journey. Let’s keep exploring France together!

More episode about French culture

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