As the Hong Kong French Film Festival celebrates its 53rd edition, the city is abuzz with cinematic excitement. Among the standout features is ‘Prodigieuses’, a biopic inspired by the true story of twin pianists Audrey and Diane Pleynet. The film explores the lives of Claire and Jeanne Vallois, portrayed by Camille Razat and Mélanie Robert, as they confront a rare illness that gradually impairs the use of their hands, challenging their shared passion for the piano.
During their visit to Hong Kong for the festival, we had the privilege of conversing with Camille, renowned for her role in ‘Emily in Paris’, and Mélanie, a rising star in French cinema. They shared insights into the rigorous preparation required for their roles, the depth of their on-screen and off-screen relationship, and their impressions of Hong Kong’s culture. Read on to learn more about our (very fun) conversation with them.
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Did you undergo any piano training to authentically embody the roles of professional pianists in the film?
Mélanie: Yes, we took 8 months of piano lessons with an extraordinary and very patient coach. It was definitely challenging, but we managed, and we’re quite proud of it. We had to master two techniques: learning to choreograph the piano and perfecting the Pleynets’ technique.
Camille: Yeah, what she said – basically, it was months of training every day. The most challenging part, I’d say, was the final scene in the movie where we have two pianos playing back-to-back. So we couldn’t see each other, and we had to play using the Pleynets’ technique while staying perfectly synchronised. It was definitely a challenge, but we were here for it.
How did this role differ from your previous roles?
Mélanie: It’s the first time I’ve portrayed a role based on a true story. It was both a challenge and a risk because it was important that they liked it and were happy with the result. So, I was both very proud and very stressed.
Camille: It was my first film where I had a significant role — actually, the lead role — and it was also a very complex, dramatic character. It was an amazing experience, and I’m so happy to have worked together with Mélanie, Valentin, and Frédéric, the directors, because they’re just so cool.
What qualities do you think you share with your character?
Camille: Well, with Claire, we’re very, very different, but I’d say she’s incredibly stubborn. When she wants something, she’ll do whatever it takes to get it. She’s also a hard worker. I’d say that’s where our similarities lie.
Mélanie: Yes, I’m quite different from Jeanne. She is rather shy and reserved. I’m more hyperactive, so we’re different in that way. But she has this very empathetic, very touching side, which I can relate to when it comes to my friends and family. I’d say that’s the part we share.
Speaking of family, as on-screen twins, how did you work together to build the deep bond and chemistry needed to bring such a close relationship to life?
Mélanie: Luckily, Camille and I have been really good friends in real life for over ten years. So, that twin-like connection, that fusion and friendship, was already there. It meant we could focus entirely on the script and the piano.
That’s such a beautiful connection. How did the two of you first meet?
Camille: So, we come from two villages near Toulouse in the south of France – not the same village, but close to each other. We really met when Mélanie decided to join the Cours Florent theatre school. She came to Paris to join me 12 years ago.
On that note, have you both had a chance to explore Hong Kong yet? What have been your favourite parts of the city so far?
Camille: The food! I’m genuinely a big fan of Asian cuisine, but I discovered Cantonese cuisine yesterday, and honestly, it’s amazing. The flavours are incredible. Also, the people here have been so kind to us everywhere we go. This city has so much energy, so much diversity, and I love how alive and dynamic it is. I really hope I can come back more often as a tourist to fully enjoy the city.
Mélanie: It’s a beautiful city with incredible energy. People often say it’s like the New York of Asia, and I find that to be true – even though I’ve never actually been to New York yet. Also, I’m really into astrology, and I’ve noticed that there’s a strong belief in it here, which I absolutely loved.
To stay up to date on their latest projects, follow Camille Razat and Mélanie Robert on Instagram.
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