For Judith Godrèche, this is an almost unexpected step forward. After launching the #MeToo movement in French cinema, the actress was invited to the National Assembly this Thursday, May 2. It was already on her benches that she had solemnly asked the deputies to act to protect children. On March 14, the person who filed a complaint against Benoît Jacquot and Jacques Doillon asked them to “take the initiative of a commission of inquiry into labor law in the world of cinema, and in particular its risks for women and children”.
And the deputies have obviously heard the message of Judith Godrèche. Because this May 2 in fact, they unanimously approved this commission of inquiry. This will have to study the “abuse and violence” of which adults and minors are victims in the cinema, audiovisual, performing arts, fashion and advertising sectors. Upset by this decision, Judith Godrèche burst into tears at the time of the announcement. On the benches of the National Assembly, she could not hold back her sobs.
Judith Godrèche: “it was extremely moving”
The proposed resolution launched by ecologist Francesca Pasquini was approved by all 52 voters present. “It’s time to stop rolling out the red carpet for abusers.”she reacted after the vote. “This commission must be carried outlaunched Judith Godrèche to AFP after the vote. It was extremely moving to hear these words in a place where laws are made, while there is an absence of law on film sets.”
As Judith Godrèche requested, this commission will have to “assess the situation of minors working in the cinema, audiovisual, performing arts, fashion and advertising sectors”. But also adults. She will still have to “identify the mechanisms and failures that allow these possible abuses and violence”, “establish the responsibilities of each actor in this matter” And “make recommendations on the responses to be provided”.
An investigation opened against Benoît Jacquot and Jacques Doillon
For Judith Godrèche, this is an important victory. Because since she broke the silence, the actress has asked for concrete actions to be taken. This was notably the theme of his hearings in the National Assembly and the Senate. “Are we going to remain silent? I am counting on you, I am counting on you to protect the children, to no longer deliver them to the cinema without any protection”then launched the actress to the deputies. This commission should be formed on May 13 and the auditions will begin a few days later. Its conclusions should not be released before November, according to AFP.
This vote comes the day after the publication of the book by Isild Le Besco. In it, the actress and sister of Maïwenn talks at length about the relationship between her and Benoît Jacquot, which began when she was 16 years old. She accuses the director of rape, while explaining that she is not ready to file a complaint against him. After the accusations of Judith Godrèche, a preliminary investigation has been opened in Paris against Benoît Jacquot and Jacques Doillon. Both deny the facts of which they are accused.
