French Cancan. 1954. France. Directed by Jean Renoir. Screenplay by Jean Renoir, André-Paul Antoine. With María Félix, Jean Gabin, Françoise Arnoul, Édith Piaf. In Spanish; English subtitles. 35mm. 102 min.
Jean Renoir’s musical drama is perhaps the most prestigious project of Félix’s European period, placing her alongside such French cultural giants as Jean Gabin and Édith Piaf. Félix plays Lola de Castro, a Spanish dancer whose professional and romantic relationship with impresario Henri Danglard (Gabin) is complicated by his interest in developing the cancan and promoting a new performer. Renoir’s detailed recreation of Belle Époque Paris provides a rich visual setting, particularly in the Technicolor dance sequences. Winner of the Grand Prix de l’Academie du Cinéma, the film demonstrates Félix’s international adaptability and her ability to work within different cinematic traditions while maintaining her distinct screen identity.