Lifestyle & Fashion
Capital romancing
Our cities are made of stones, shaped by wars, emperors, or presidents, and designed for business, politics, or faith. But there might be another way to tell the story of our streets, buildings, and monuments.
Nowadays, lovers travel the world to share their love and thus create a new romantic topography of cities.
Our journeys show how love shapes the environment and what lovers need to know to prepare for the perfect romantic holiday in Paris, Mexico City, Rio, and New York.
# FRENCH VERSION [316x26’]
The French art-de-vivre
Fashion, design, gastronomy, the art of living...
In each episode, a guest and reports shine a light on France and its young creators and on swanky and trendy places.
100 PLACES TO SEE [103x52’]
A country tells its story through its detours
This series is aimed at nature lovers, history buffs, old stone enthusiasts, and gourmets searching for authentic products.
Each episode features a trip worth taking, brimming with grand and intimate stories, in the company of locals.
ANDREE PUTMAN, THE GRAND LADY OF DESIGN [52’]
An icon of the eighties
Andrée Putman, an internationally renowned stylist and interior designer, has left an indelible mark on the world of design.
She embodies “the chic Parisian woman, always impeccable, who leaves nothing to chance”, said her daughter Olivia, who took over from her.
This film looks back at the career and legacy of this icon of the eighties.
BATA: A COBBLER CONQUERS THE WORLD [52’]
Beyond shoemaking
The Bata corporation needs no introduction, this popular footwear brand can be found all around the world.
Shot in France, Brazil, India, Kenya, Zlín and Bratislava, this film tells the story of Tomáš Baťa, how he upended this industry and built an empire.
Beyond the shoe company, he used his fame and fortune to build towns and villages in many countries.
BECOMING CHANEL [52’]
The story of a myth
Chanel's first outlet, established in 1910, was a hat shop. Indeed, Coco Chanel was forbidden to sell clothes there because a seamstress had her business at that same address.
Today, Chanel is one of the world's most famous luxury brands. It symbolizes high-end French fashion, and its international appeal has not wavered for over a century.
How did this woman, born at the end of the 19th century into an impoverished family, become this mythical figure?
BEHIND THE SCENES OF A PALACE: THE BRISTOL [45’]
An unparalleled service
Standing tall amongst the very few palaces in Paris is the Bristol.
It has 200 rooms and suites and a 3-star restaurant headed by chef Eric Fréchon. Its 600 employees offer an unparalleled service for customers willing to pay up to 24,000 euros per night.
CANNES, THE REVIVAL OF A LEGENDARY PALACE [44’]
One of the jewels of the Croisette
The Hotel Martinez, one of the jewels of the Croisette in Cannes, is renowned for hosting the stars and the jet set. It has been renovated from top to bottom.
Everything has been revamped, from the plumbing to the spa, from the kitchens to the bars and restaurants. A renowned interior designer has redecorated the 409 rooms in the art-deco spirit. Even the staff uniforms have been redesigned.
In this film, we follow Samia, from her job interview to her first days in the hotel, and Alessandro Cresta, the dashing manager, for whom the reopening during the Cannes Film Festival is a major challenge.
CHAMPS ELYSEES, THE AVENUE OF A THOUSAND SECRETS [7x52’]
Backstage and unknown places
Do you know everything about the Champs Elysées, the ultimate symbol of Paris?
Think again.
This series unveils the backstage and unknown places of the world's most famous avenue, showing the Champs Elysées as never seen before.
CHRISTIAN DIOR: THE REFINEMENT OF A LOST PARADISE [52’]
The creator of the New Look
In 1947, an unknown became famous overnight in the fashion world.
Christian Dior has just invented the "New Look" a clothing line that gives a new shape to women. Within a decade, the designer will not only revolutionize fashion but also define it to this day through the globalization of brands and the rise of supermodels.
For Christian Dior, everything is linked to his childhood in Granville, France—a lost paradise found in the garden and the house of his parents ' villa.
CRILLON (THE) [52’]
The most mythical of Paris' palaces
Among the twelve palaces of Paris, the Crillon is one of the most legendary, with its windows overlooking the famous Place de la Concorde.
CRILLON, THE REVIVAL OF A PARISIAN PALACE [48’]
A complete overhaul to offer the ultimate in luxury
On the Place de la Concorde in Paris, the Crillon is one of the most luxurious hotels in the world. The palace celebrates French civility and welcomes superstars such as Madonna or Mick Jagger.
Closed for 4 years for a complete overhaul, the establishment had lost ground to other Parisian palaces.
To return to the forefront, the Crillon 400 employees are working hard to make it a home away from home for its very demanding customers.
Also available as a 93'
DEFINITELY FRENCH [6x26’]
A British view on France and its inhabitants
Who are the French? Why are they so peculiar? This country seems to relish standing apart for the better or for the worse.
In this series, a very British director digs into the French paradox by taking an offbeat tour of its quirkiest traditions. There will be plenty of action: snail racing, frog jumping, duck plucking and lemon sculpting. Last but not least, we pay homage to cheese and worship at the temple of wine.
Funny. Surprising. Offbeat. Delectable. Outlandish. This is France like you've never seen it before.
Also available as 30x5'
DIOR, SECRETS OF A SHOW [40’]
French luxury
One of the most glamorous events on the planet is probably the Dior show during Fashion Week in Paris.
But before the D-DAY (Dior Day), hundreds of people work their hardest for 2 months to prepare the event.
Models, dressmakers, technicians, all have a hand in perpetuating the tradition of French luxury.
FASHION WEEK UNDER THE EIFFEL TOWER [42’]
A celebration of women
Every year, L'Oréal Paris organizes a fashion show on the forecourt of the Eiffel Tower, open to all, to celebrate women's emancipation, inclusiveness, and sisterhood.
HOMES OF BRAZIL [10x26’]
Welcome into my world
In Brazil, every city has its own atmosphere, style, and charm. You can visit all the landmarks you want but how often are you allowed to enter private homes? Who wouldn’t want to push open some of these closed doors to peek inside and discover firsthand what’s behind the façades?
HOMES OF BRAZIL is your key to these places. This beautifully shot series is a memorable encounter with passionate owners, talented architects, and creative craftsmen.
From modernist houses to colonial mansions, from the favelas to luxurious beach houses, from futurist Rio and Sao Paulo to laidback sea resort Paraty and the legendary Gold Route, this series is a unique mix of travel and architecture.
I LOVE MY BAG [52’]
An iconic object
Dangling on women's arms, ubiquitous in magazines and on catwalks, the handbag has come to define elegance. It also reflects the personality of its owner through what it holds and hides.
Through encounters with anonymous people or celebrities, this film attempts to pierce the souls of all those who loudly proclaim, "I love my bag".
It also tells how, over the centuries, the handbag has become this iconic object, arousing an unreasonable, even irresistible, desire.
IN THERAPY WITH MY CAT [20x26’]
A furry patient
Cats aren't always easy to get along with. In fact, the purring machine often hides a fearsome feline.
Fortunately, Daniel and his specialists are there to help owners who are at their wits' end.
INSIDE THE BEST HOTEL IN THE WORLD [40’]
Rated n.1 by Condé Nast Traveller
Located at 42 Avenue Gabriel, in the 8th arrondissement of Paris, halfway between rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré and Avenue Montaigne, is a small jewel nestled in the swankiest part of the city.
An imposing scarlet red carriage door opens on the smallest Parisian Palace. With only 46 rooms, including 26 suites like private apartments, Hotel La Réserve is the best-kept secret in the capital.
Although it only opened in January 2015, the establishment has been named Best Hotel in the World by readers of Condé Nast Traveller.
LA MAMOUNIA THE GEM OF MARRAKESH [40’]
The sweet life in Morocco
Morocco is synonymous with a gentle life.
Nothing epitomizes it more vividly than the Mamounia, a mythical hotel and a century-old institution in Marrakech facing the Atlas Mountains.
LUXURY REAL ESTATE [28’]
Looking to upgrade
Luxury real estate is breaking all records in France. With the pandemic and the lockdowns, the place of residence has become more important than ever, and wealthy buyers are ready to invest to upgrade.
This trend is as true in the capital as it is in seaside resorts or in the countryside, as these destinations are also benefiting from the widespread adoption of remote working.
The battle is raging all the more as supply is falling while demand is rising.
MAREVA GEORGES, DIVINE BEAUTY [52’]
Polynesian elegance
Mareva George was elected Miss France in 1991, symbolizing Polynesian elegance and culture to the world.
Today, she's a committed woman who divides her time between Paris, Tahiti, and Los Angeles.
MASTER CRAFTERS [3x52’]
The art of the gesture
Human beings have always forged, blown, molded, sculpted, shaped, or fashioned raw materials such as sand, clay, wood, and many other kinds of compounds, for the sole purpose of inventing and creating to reach that moment when passion for a well-crafted piece is combined with the love of beauty.
Traditional or innovative techniques, and most importantly a taste for excellence, have been passed down from generation to generation.
Technical mastery, know-how, audacity, high standards: this series is devoted to the art of the gesture through the eyes of its creator.
MEDITERRANEAN CHRONICLES [73x26’]
Off the beaten track
This series takes us to the most beautiful places in the South of France, to meet the personalities, famous or lesser-known, who make their region's heart beat faster.
MIGAKU HITO [47’]
Polishing as an art
Unbeknownst to many, polishing is an art in Japan and is called Migaku.
Masters of this traditional craft share a sense of beauty and take pride in the happiness they bring to Migaku-related items.
Indeed, what emerges after polishing are things that shine, sparkle, and smiles, characteristics we witness through several encounters and testimonies.
OLIVIER ROUSTEING, THE YOUNG PRINCE OF BALMAIN [40’]
A highly creative designer
During Paris Fashion Week, the Balmain show is the one not to be missed under any circumstances.
For the past 6 years, it has been orchestrated and designed by the young prodigy Olivier Rousteing. This highly talented and sensitive designer has successfully rejuvenated the historic French fashion house.
For the first time, Olivier Rousteing allowed cameras to film his life at its most dramatic moment.
ORIENTAL EXPRESS: THE ULTIMATE TRAIN EXPERIENCE [48’]
From Bangkok to Singapore in ultimate luxury
It is one of the most beautiful trains in the world.
The restored interior is decorated with superb teak marquetry and woodwork. The cabins, rather suites, compare favorably to those of the most luxurious palaces. The staff is ready to satisfy every need. A steward is at the disposal of a high-end clientele, 24 hours a day, throughout the duration of the trip. The refined menu is the work of a French chef.
An exceptional journey from Bangkok to Singapore into a world of luxury and comfort through breathtaking landscapes.
PACO RABANNE, A LIFE OF EXTRAVAGANCE [52’]
A metallurgist for some and a visionary for others
A metallurgist to some, and a visionary to others, Paco Rabanne never left anyone indifferent. He retired from fashion in 1999 after more than thirty years of creativity and international fame.
Between extravagance and heritage, this film tells the incredible story of its creator.
PANAME [215x26’]
Unearthing the districts of Paris
This series explores a street or a micro-neighborhood of Paris by telling anecdotes, revealing secrets, and trading valuable tips.
One host meets the people who embody the soul of that neighborhood, unearthing amazing addresses and sneaking into places that are inaccessible to the public, while another tells the place's great and small history.
PARIS FASHION WEEK, THE NEW STARS [40’]
The power of social networks
This year, the stars are not necessarily those you would expect. Indeed, today a new generation is gaining more influence in the fashion industry.
Celebrities are now bloggers who owe their fame to social networks.
PAUL RICARD, THE PASTIS STORY [52’]
A legendary drink
Ricard pastis, created in 1932 by Paul Ricard, a young man barely 23 years old, was sold in a few districts of Marseille before conquering the world.
Today, tens of millions of liters are sold each year.
This film tells the story of an exceptional entrepreneur and a legendary drink.
PLACE VENDOME, BEHIND THE SCENES [40’]
Security is an obsession
For nearly 200 years, Place Vendôme has been the sanctuary of the greatest jewellers. The luxury pieces that have made its reputation are made in places that are kept confidential, precious stones of inestimable value are handled here. Understandably, craftsmen work in the greatest secrecy.
Wealthy customers like the conveniency of nearby palaces with their exceptional service.
With such fortunes in the area, security on Place Vendôme is paramount. After several robberies, it has become an obsession. An anti-hold-up plan has been put in place, and the neighbourhood is under close surveillance.
PLEASURES [12x13’]
The matters of luxury
This series is a sensual tribute to these noble materials which, once worked and shaped by craftsmen of genius, give birth to unique objects that define luxury.
A journey to the heart of the matter and its sumptuous metamorphoses from materials as diverse as leather, silk, crystal, chocolate, flowers or precious stones.
ROSEWOOD, INSIDE THE WORLD'S CRAZIEST HOTEL [40’]
Cidade Matarazzo, the future ideal city
In Brazil, a city like no other is being built. Connected, green, sustainable, responsible, and self-sufficient, Cidade Matarazzo could well become the ideal city.
The project was born out of Alexandre Allard's love affair with a former maternity hospital abandoned since 1933 and is part of São Paulo's historical heritage. He imagined a 5-hectare Eldorado that would unite several spaces: the first 6-star hotel in South America, a tower with ultra-luxury flats, a market, more than thirty restaurants, and a space dedicated to creativity and Brazilian art.
The buildings are taking shape thanks to internationally renowned architects Jean Nouvel and Rudy Ricciotti and star designer Philippe Starck.
SCENTS OF ORIENT [52’]
A thousands of years old art
The art of perfumery has existed in the Middle East for over 5,000 years.
This film takes us on a journey to discover the emblematic locations and raw materials of perfumes from the Orient.
SEOUL, THE MODEL CITY [40’]
When prevention rhymes with freedom
Intelligent masks, bunker-like subways, a crêperie, and a high-tech quarantine: in the South Korean capital, the pandemic was a challenge brilliantly met.
Between tradition and futurism, in Seoul, everything seems possible, even living freely in the midst of a global health crisis.
SO BRITISH! ECCENTRIC UK [6x26’]
Quirky ways to have fun
Is it that famous sense of humour or the weather? Or is it because they live on an island? Whatever the reason, our British friends have developed all kinds of weird hobbies over the centuries, and they're still at it today, as the UK has become the international headquarters of eccentric activities.
This series provides an exhaustive offbeat tour of the nation's most bizarre spectacles and competitions. From Cheese Rolling to Bog Snorkeling, from the World Worm Charming Championships to Canine Freestyle, ECCENTRIC UK delivers the cream of the action and provides all the insight you'll need when you find yourself asking: why?
THE LUTETIA, THE HOTEL WHO WANTED TO BE A PALACE [41’]
A new showcase in the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Paris
In July 2018, the Lutetia hotel reopened its doors after 4 years of renovation while remaining faithful to the Art Deco style of this mythical establishment.
Built in 1910, the hotel enjoyed its hour of glory between the two world wars by welcoming painters and writers. In 1940, the German army made it its counter-intelligence headquarters. But after the Liberation, the hotel, to show its commitment to the Resistance, became the reception centre for deportees returning from the concentration camps.
This film takes us behind the scenes to admire, amongst other things, the restoration of the original frescoes, mosaics and stained glass windows. A major endeavour for an establishment which ambition is to be ranked a Palace. It would then be the only one on the left bank of Paris.
THE MANY FACES OF CHINA [52’ or 90’]
At the heart of dreams in China
From the farthest reaches of Xinjiang to the streets of Beijing, this choral film reveals the intimate China of those who bring it to life, where each weaves, in their own way, the thread of a country in transition.
Shot over six years, this is a heartfelt journey through the dreams of a people in motion.
THE NAKED WORLD [10x48’]
Cultural perspectives on the body
Why is our body the object of so much controversy? Why do some cultures have a more open approach to nudity than others?
This series answers these questions as we travel around the world to meet some colorful characters.
THE PALACE ON THE ATLANTIC [45’]
An Empress summer residence
Biarritz is home to the only palace bordering the Atlantic.
Built in 1855 at the behest of Napoleon III, this imposing building is part of France's historical heritage. Empress Eugénie made it her summer residence.
Today, craftsmen such as cabinetmakers, decorators, upholsterers, and painters renovate the place using traditional techniques.
UNIQUE SPA [12x22’]
Access restricted
Japan is the land of hot springs and this series focuses on spas that are definitely not ordinary, like no changing rooms, or you have to clear the shrub, even having to build your own tub.
With these spas, access might be difficult but then the greater the joy of the soak where all aches and pains are washed away.
UP! ON THE GREEN ROOFS OF PARIS [52’]
The secrets high above
This film is an exceptional journey to discover an unknown Paris where Mother Nature reigns; an expedition on the rooftops of the city which harbors amazing hanging gardens.
Strawberries grow on top of the Galeries Lafayette; vines on City Hall; vegetables on school roofs tended by students; hops on the BHV department store, and the Opéra Bastille will soon be offering beer to its visitors.
The rooftops of Paris have not revealed all their secrets yet.
VUITTON, BEHIND THE SCENES OF LUXURY’S MASTERMIND [62’]
V.I.P. access
For the first time, the most popular French luxury brand opened its doors to its workshops, where its famous handbags are laser-cut, its flagship store on the Champs-Élysées (a historical monument dedicated to conspicuous consumption), the repair department (a kind of leather clinic), and the ultra-chic store in Tokyo.
This dazzling film offers a rare peek inside an institution in the luxury industry.
WORKSHOPS’ SECRETS [52’]
Creativity, excellence and know-how
In art workshops' secret world, creativity combines excellence and know-how while respecting traditions.
Master craftsmen working for the most famous French luxury companies, such as Louis Vuitton, Chaumet in the Place Vendôme, or the Manufacture de Sèvres, use wood, glass, leather, or other exceptional materials.
They share with us their passion and the secrets of their art.