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 [170x26’]
The French art-de-vivre
Fashion, design, gastronomy, art of living... Katherina Marx, a passionate ambassador of French chic, meets the who’s who a lifestyle pundits.
In each episode, a significant guest and reports shine a light on France and its young creators as well as on swanky and trendy places.
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.
BEAUTY AND THE BEACH [26x52’]
Life changing cosmetic surgery in world-class accommodations
In Thailand, leading surgeons perform plastic surgery operations in world-class hospitals, and patients are pampered in luxurious five-star hotels.
In this series, we follow people determined to change their lives taking all sorts of available options: boob jobs for young and old, mother and daughter bridezilla packages, hen’s parties, extreme foot, and hand makeovers, dental implant tours, sex changes, post-baby mummy makeovers, male breast reduction, liposuction, labiaplasty, booty lifts...
These operations, long out of reach for the global masses, are now no longer the preserve of the rich and famous.
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. Emblematic of high-end French fashion, its international appeal has not wavered for more than a century.
How did this woman, born at the end of the 19th century into a destitute 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 famous Martinez hotel, one of the jewels of the Croisette in Cannes, renowned for hosting the stars and the jet set, has been renovated from top to bottom.
Everything has been rebuilt: pipes, air conditioning, spa, kitchens, beach, bars, and restaurants. Even the swimming pool has been transformed into a garden. The 409 rooms have been redecorated in the art-deco spirit. The staff uniforms have also been redesigned, as well as the graphic charter and menu of the gastronomic restaurant, which has been awarded 2 Michelin stars.
We followed Samia, from her job interview to her first days in the restaurant, as well as Alessandro Cresta, the dashing manager of the establishment, for whom the stakes couldn’t be higher as the hotel opens at the time of the Cannes Film Festival.
CHAMPS-ELYSEES, THE AVENUE OF A THOUSAND SECRETS [7x52’]
Backstage and unknown places
You think you know everything about the Champs-Elysées, the ultimate symbol of Paris?
Think again. This series unveils the backstage and unknown places of the most famous avenue in the world, 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 becomes 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 defines it up to today: the globalization of brands, 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 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'
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.
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 favellas to luxurious beach houses, from futurist Rio and Sao Paulo to laidback sea resort Paraty and the legendary Gold Route, this series is an 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.
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 that are 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.
KAWAII ASIA [30x25’]
The cult of cute
This fashion & entertainment show, hosted by popular models, including Kumiko Funayama (a cover model for fashion magazines such as Popteen and With), brings you the latest news on Japan's "kawaii" culture.
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.
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.
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 succeeded in rejuvenating the old 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, THE EXTRAVAGANT [52’]
A metallurgist for some and a visionary for others
Paco Rabanne has been labelled a metallurgist by some and a visionary by others. The fact is that he never left anyone indifferent. He retired from the fashion scene in 1999 after more than 30 years of creativity.
The fashion house that bears his name celebrated its 50th anniversary.
Between extravagance and heritage, this film tells the incredible story of its creator.
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 and more influence in the fashion industry.
Celebrities are now bloggers who owe their fame to social networks.
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 [52’]
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 that had been abandoned since 1933 and is part of São Paulo's historical heritage. He imagined a 5-hectare Eldorado that would bring together 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, Rudy Ricciotti, and star designer Philippe Starck.
SPA SEEKERS [10x26’]
Relax in style
With its exquisite taste and dedication to service, Asia has made spas an art form.
So when model and actress Jaymee Ong and her sister Lindsay start a quest to find the best spas in Asia, you know they’re in for a quite a challenge.
This series go to great length, from Indonesia to Maldives and from Thailand to Taiwan, with only one goal in mind: to find and present you the best spas in Asia.
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 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 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 above the Galeries Lafayette; vines on City Hall; vegetables on school roofs, tended by students; hops on the BHV department store and the Opéra Bastille, which will soon offer 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 gave access to its workshops, where its famous handbags are laser-cut, its flagship store on the Champs-Elysées (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 the secret world of art workshops, creativity combines with excellence and know-how while still 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 secrets of their art.