The secrets of Xavier Beauvois, director of the films “The Valley of Fools” and “Of Men and Gods”

Your new film is on screens. Make our mouths water…

While he is going through a bad patch, the hero gets back on his feet by participating in Virtual Regatta, an online simulation of the Vendée Globe, from a boat moored… in his garden. If you go to the cinema to laugh or to cry, this story is for you.

What does it reveal about you?

Isolated in his sailboat, my drifting character takes a tour of his world, of himself, of his family relationships… I took the same approach after filming, because I went too far with the vodka.

Music that touches you?

The interpretation of The red poster by Fire! Chatterton, during the pantheonization of the resistance fighter Missak Manouchian, moved me.

A character that you would dream of portraying?

Winston Churchill, who fascinates me for his spirit and resilience during the Blitz in 1940-1941. I am passionate about History and knowledgeable about the landings.

The film you could watch a hundred times?

All Sergio Leones. He’s the director who gives me the most pleasure in each shot: his way of taking his time, introducing notes from Ennio Morricone, injecting humor…

Your Proust madeleine?

Fishing. My childhood in Aire-sur-la-Lys, in Pas-de-Calais, was difficult and it was my escape.

The person who meant the most to you?

Jean Douchet, immense historian of the seventh art who became my spiritual father. When I was at high school in Calais, he came to present Mr. The Cursed at the film club and it changed my life.

A good plan to connect with nature?

Living near Étretat, I walk along the cliffs every day.

What will you never tire of looking at?

Elephants. I was able to admire them in Kenya, in Tanzania… At home, I have dozens of representations of this so sociable animal.

For what cause would you mobilize?

For nine months, I welcomed four Ukrainians into my home. They returned to kyiv, but we stayed in touch. Once the war is over, I will go see them…

Guardian angel on your shoulder?

My sister Nathalie, died at 16, when I was 10. She was 100% disabled and we had an indescribable bond.

We offer you an hour of silence. What do you do with it?

I can stay with a friend without saying anything. Just being good together.