Inspired by remarkable true events, multi award-winning writer Emmanuel
Courcol’s rousing, Cannes-selected directorial debut follows a dedicated
out-of-work actor (indelibly played by the fabulous Kad Merad) whose life
takes an unexpected career turn. Disillusioned and divorced middle-aged
thespian Étienne (Merad) accepts an arts rehabilitation role, leading a
theatre workshop group at a correctional facility, under the watchful eye
of open-minded but cautious warden Ariane (Marina Hands). His program
attracts a motley group, and Étienne, surprised by the raw talent he
unearths, comes up with the idea of workshopping Beckett’s “Waiting for
Godot”. To the surprise of many, the play’s existential themes prove to be
a natural fit for the inmates, and the connection between the cast and
their kind-hearted director grows stronger with every rehearsal... though
not without exception, and some very unexpected ramifications.
