The Count of Monte Cristo: Pierre Nini at the 2025 Oscars, is it possible?

In France we have reason to be proud of the Count of Monte Cristo. If this big epic performance does not represent France at the Oscars – the CNC commission chose to send Jacques Audiard’s Emilia Perez – the film by Mathieu Delaporte and Alexandre de la Patellier managed to charm more than 8 million viewers in the rooms – big. some of whom are young people.

This success, which exceeded all expectations, is all the more gratifying because it concerns a three-hour film that has its origins in one of the greatest classics of French literature. Even sales of Alexandre Dumas’ novel exploded over the summer.

But does our blockbuster stand a chance to shine at the 97th Academy Awards? The adaptation of Pierre Nini, which has already been purchased and distributed in different parts of the world, is expected in the US on December 20. Historical distributor Samuel Goldwyn Films will be responsible for offering the film in American theaters.

Pierre Nini at the Oscars?

First of all, according to DiversityThe distributor aims to participate in all Oscar categories, including Best Picture – the most prestigious. If the technical nominations – costumes and sets – are very likely, so what Pierre Nin ? Can an actor who delivers the most inspired performance of his career earn an Oscar nomination for Best Actor?

Everything is possible in the film industry. Other French have already done this. Think of Simon Signore, Juliette Binoche, Marion Cotillard or even Jean Dujardin. However, the very well-oiled Hollywood machine follows many rules and heavy protocols.

How does it work in Hollywood?

First of all, the Count of Monte Cristo is 100% French production. This was not the case with other films that allowed French actors to win Oscars. American price competition is usually more affordable for international co-productions.

In addition, Pierre Nin’s blockbuster is entirely in French – Michel Hazanavicius’ The Artist is a silent film, and Justin Triet’s Anatomy had much of the dialogue in English.

Unlike the two films mentioned above, The Count of Monte Cristo – Presented out of competition at Cannes 2024 – No Prestigious Awards. To remind, the artist allowed Jean Dujardin to win the best actor award in 2011, and Autumn Anatomy was crowned at the Palme d’Or in 2023. These awards offer some visibility to feature films. That’s the thing Emilia Perez Twice awarded at the last festival by Jacques Audiard.

specific campaign

To win the race, you also need a lot of money and a (big) advertising campaign. Distributors invest their entire budget to distribute the film in Hollywood. This requires private screenings, a tour of American broadcasters and a massive press campaign. This is the best way to compete with other competitors.

As for Pierre NinIf its unifying power is undeniable in France, it is not very popular in America. You have to find a place in the media sphere to establish yourself in the voters and society.

Pierre Nin’s (main) assets

However, several aspects may work in its favor. The Count of Monte Cristo is first and foremost a world famous novel – and has been adapted several times for Hollywood. Americans are familiar with the story and will likely be interested in this new version.

Pierre Nini, known for his humor and capital sympathy, also has every chance to attract a young audience, just like in France. In addition, the actor is very involved in the social network. Today, platforms such as TikTok or X play an important role in the popularity of candidates.

And we must not forget the power of “French charm”. Although it is not easy for our films to exist across the Atlantic, Americans are seduced by the French, their sensibility, their sense of style – and sometimes their accent. Jean Dujardin can confirm this. Swann Arlaud’s hair, on the other hand, turned TikTok upside down.

This whole “Oscar” hypothesis rests on the shoulders of the distributor. It is he who holds the key to possible influence. Looking at the arrival of the film among Americans, we will see you next December.

The Count of Monte Cristo is currently in theaters.