In a bold move, Amazon Prime Video is breaking new ground in France with its provocative French soap opera, “Escort Boys.” Departing from its usual male-focused action and teen comedy content, this raunchy series delves into the evolving dynamics of gender power in the country. With an attractive cast and a healthy dose of adult humor, “Escort Boys” aims to make its mark amidst France’s most divisive #MeToo moment, surrounding the downfall of iconic actor Gerard Depardieu.
A Timely and Acclaimed French Adaptation
“Escort Boys” is the French adaptation of the popular Israeli show “Milk and Honey.” It is the first French scripted title to be acquired at an early stage by Prime Video for not only France but also English-speaking territories like North America, the U.K., Australia, and New Zealand. Moreover, the series has secured distribution in several international territories including Germany, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, Belgium, and Portugal. Following a year on Prime Video, “Escort Boys” will also make its debut on the French commercial channel TF1. The series recently premiered at the UGC Les Halles cinemas in Paris, followed by a lavish celebration at the cabaret Chez Lulu.
Challenging Stereotypes and Exploring Complex Themes
Directed by Ruben Alves, known for his work on “Miss” and “The Gilded Cage,” “Escort Boys” is a half-hour comedy series that follows the lives of four young men who become escorts to save their struggling family business in a picturesque town in Southern France. Through their experiences, the protagonists confront their preconceptions about romantic love, female sexuality, masculinity, and the relationships between men and women. Produced by Myriam Gharbi-de Vasselot at Oberkampf Productions and Charlotte Toledano-Detaille at Story Nation Productions, the series offers a refreshing perspective on these themes. Notably, Gharbi-de Vasselot is also producing a documentary about male escorts, which will premiere on Prime Video.
Unveiling the Journey Behind the Series
In an interview with Variety, Gharbi-de Vasselot and Toledano-Detaille shed light on the process of securing the rights to the Israeli format and adapting it for French audiences. They also discuss the relevance of “Escort Boys” in the #MeToo era and the challenges faced during production. The producers share their excitement about working with Ruben Alves, praising his directorial skills and unique approach to storytelling. They express their hopes for the series to resonate with both male and female viewers, transcending gender stereotypes and sparking conversations about sexuality and relationships.
A Rare Acquisition for Amazon Prime Video
The fact that Amazon Prime Video acquired the rights to “Escort Boys” for multiple territories is a testament to the series’ potential appeal. This rare move indicates the streaming platform’s confidence in the show’s ability to captivate audiences beyond France. The producers acknowledge the support and artistic freedom they received from Amazon Prime Video during the development and production stages. They express their gratitude for the streamer’s involvement and emphasize the importance of the show’s feel-good factor, especially considering the challenges posed by the pandemic.
A Delicate Balance and a Nature-Inspired Setting
“Escort Boys” manages to strike a delicate balance between its fairytale-like vibe and the exploration of serious themes. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Camargue region, often referred to as the French Wild West, the series captivates viewers with its mesmerizing visuals. The producers praise Ruben Alves’ ability to infuse warmth and sunshine into the show, creating a unique blend of comedy and drama that few French directors can achieve. They highlight how the series tackles important issues, such as sexual harassment, while maintaining an overall lighthearted tone.
Anticipating the Future of “Escort Boys”
As an independently produced show, “Escort Boys” represents a significant achievement for the producers. Amazon Prime Video’s exclusive streaming rights for the first few years attest to the platform’s faith in the series. While the show’s future beyond the first season remains uncertain, the creators express their desire to continue exploring the lives of these characters. They envision “Escort Boys” becoming an iconic show similar to “Call My Agent!” and even hope to feature famous actors in cameo roles. With its unique blend of comedy, drama, and thought-provoking storytelling, “Escort Boys” has the potential to leave a lasting impact on French television.
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