Monsieur Aznavour

In 1924, Charles Aznavour was born in Paris to refugees fleeing the Armenian genocide. Few could have predicted that, a hundred years later, he would be remembered as a cultural legend. Growing up in poverty and frequently bullied for his short stature - a trait he would later humorously embrace - Aznavour’s early attempts at a musical career seemed to falter. However, by the 1950s, things began to change, thanks in part to the support of Edith Piaf. His talents flourished not only as a singer and songwriter but also as a celebrated actor. The biopic Monsieur Aznavour recounts these formative years, with a captivating performance by Tahar Rahim (Un prophète, The Mauritanian) in the title role. The film was made in close collaboration with Aznavour’s family - his son-in-law is one of the producers. Directors are Mehdi Idir and Grand Corps Malade, the latter made his name in the world of poetry slam before successfully transitioning into music. And one of the first to recognize and praise his talent? None other than Charles Aznavour himself.