Saint-Tropez: legendary film shoots and the influence of cinema on the town's reputation

Saint-Tropez, the glittering jewel of the Côte d'Azur, has been the enchanting setting for many legendary film shoots, helping to shape its international aura. Let's take a look back at the indelible imprint of cinema on this Mediterranean city.

The beginnings of cinema in Saint-Tropez

The beginnings of cinema in this region date back to the first decades of the 20th century. In 1896, the Lumière brothers immortalised the streets and port of Saint-Tropez in one of their first films. However, it was in the 1950s that the town began to attract film-makers thanks to its picturesque landscapes and incomparable light. Films such as "En effeuillant la Marguerite" (1956) were among the first to capture the magic of Saint-Tropez on screen.

Iconic films shot in Saint-Tropez

Saint-Tropez, a Mediterranean jewel, has always been a favourite location for iconic films that have helped shape its worldwide reputation. Saint-Tropez has served as the backdrop for iconic works of French and international cinema.

In the 50s and 60s, the glamour and elegance of the seaside resort provided the backdrop for some memorable films, leaving an indelible mark on cinematic history. Among these masterpieces, "Bonjour Tristesse" (1958), directed by Otto Preminger and starring Deborah Kerr, David Niven and Jean Seberg, immortalised the port and the Ponche of Saint-Tropez in unforgettable scenes.

One thinks of "Et Dieu... Créa la Femme" (1956), directed by Roger Vadim and starring Brigitte Bardot, which catapulted the town onto the world stage. Indeed, the film captured Bardot's raw sensuality and the bewitching beauty of Saint-Tropez, elevating the town to the status of a glamorous destination.

Another iconic film, Marcel Moussy's "Saint-Tropez Blues" (1960), transported viewers into the hustle and bustle of Tropezian nightlife with Marie Laforet, Jacques Higelin, and Pierre Michael.

For French-speaking audiences, there's also "Le Gendarme de Saint-Tropez" (1964), an iconic comedy starring Louis de Funès that not only delighted audiences but also anchored Saint-Tropez in the French collective imagination as a place of entertainment and joie de vivre.

The influence of cinema on Saint-Tropez's reputation continued with Alain Cavalier's "La Chamade" (1968), in which Catherine Deneuve and Michel Piccoli stroll through the picturesque streets of the town.

The 1980s saw the birth of "L'année des méduses" (1984), directed by Christopher Frank and starring Valérie Kaprisky and Bernard Giraudeau on Tahiti beach, adding a sensual dimension to the image of Saint-Tropez.

More recently, in 2005, Pierre Salvadori's "Hors de prix", starring Audrey Tautou and Gad Elmaleh, recorded unforgettable scenes at the Papagayo, on the port of Saint-Tropez, adding a modern touch to the town's cinematic heritage. In 2012, Danièle Thompson's "Des Gens qui s'embrassent", starring Monica Bellucci, Eric Elmosino, and Kad Merad, captured the beauty of the Ponche and the citadel, underlining Saint-Tropez's central role in the contemporary film industry.

Explore Saint-Tropez through the eyes of legendary film stars and directors, and discover how every alleyway, beach and harbour has played a crucial role in creating magical cinematic moments. Immerse yourself in the history and glamour of Saint-Tropez, a place where reality and fiction blend harmoniously, contributing to the eternal fame of this pearl of the Côte d'Azur.

Saint-Tropez's appeal to film-makers and stars

Saint-Tropez quickly became a must-see location for film-makers and celebrities alike. New Wave directors such as Jean-Luc Godard were captivated by the town's relaxed atmosphere and enchanting light, shooting iconic scenes from their groundbreaking films.

Celebrities from all over the world have also been captivated by Saint-Tropez. From Brigitte Bardot to Alain Delon, many stars have helped forge the town's glamorous image, attracting international attention.

Saint-Tropez's cinematic legacy

The impact of these films on the town is undeniable. As well as increasing tourism, they have helped Saint-Tropez retain a timeless charm. The beaches, cafés and narrow streets that served as backdrops for these works have become must-see landmarks for visitors eager to follow in the footsteps of film icons.

Saint-Tropez today

Today, Saint-Tropez continues to celebrate its cinematic heritage. Film festivals, open-air screenings and exhibitions commemorate the masterpieces of the past while remaining open to new film talent. This deep connection between the town and cinema remains a source of inspiration for filmmakers the world over.

Saint-Tropez, the jewel of the Côte d'Azur, has been immortalised on film many times. Its close links with the cinema have helped to shape its unique identity and keep it at the heart of the collective imagination. Even today, it continues to shine in the spotlight, perpetuating its timeless charm across the generations.