'Fake Paris' Filmed Here? 'Lovers on the Pont Neuf' Celebrates 4K Remaster Release with Behind-the-Scenes Story

The crazy love that captivated the 90s, the 4K remastered version of 〈Lovers on the Pont Neuf〉 is set to be released in Korea next week, and the war-like birth story is becoming a hot topic.

Initially, the daytime scenes of 〈Lovers on the Pont Neuf〉 were planned to be filmed at the actual Pont Neuf bridge, while the nighttime scenes were to be shot on a set under construction in Lansargues, Hérault in southern France. However, during the filming at the actual Pont Neuf, a mishap occurred where lead actor Denis Lavant injured his wrist, and as a result, the extension of the filming permit became impossible, forcing a change in plans. Consequently, all daytime scenes were shot on the Lansargues set, and the set that was already being prepared for the nighttime scenes was expanded, leading to a rapid increase in production costs.

The Lansargues set, which Le Figaro described as "the largest set in the history of French cinema," was another 'Fake Paris' that meticulously recreated the bridge's curves and railings, the equestrian statue of Henry IV, the exterior and lighting of the Samaritaine department store, the nearby subway entrance, and the landscape across the river to the Parc de Bercy. Director Leos Carax did not compromise on even the smallest details, and the fireworks scene set against the 200th anniversary of the French Revolution was filmed using actual large-scale fireworks rather than visual effects. As a result, the initial budget of approximately 30 million francs ballooned to about 160 million francs, setting a record for the highest production cost in French cinema at the time.

The 4K remastered version of 〈Lovers on the Pont Neuf〉 by director Leos Carax will be available in Korean theaters on January 28.