PODIUM is a sharp and outrageously fun portrait of the rather modern obsession with celebrity, from talented first time director Yann Moix. Bernard Rederic (Poelvoorde) makes his living as an impersonator of 60s and 70s French pop idol Claude Francois. He opens shopping malls, and entertains at dreary regional events. Though Bernard doesn't look at all like Francois - his dedication sees him through. Business isn't good though, and after an ultimatum from wife Vera (Julie Depardieu) - he quits showbiz.

Five years on, and Bernard is working a bank, living with Vero and their young son in a cheap but rather unsuitable home. It's a display home, still on the lot, and curious house-hunters tend to walk in unannounced during lunch! His dim but adorable best friend Couscous (Jean-Paul Rouve), who also started out as a Cloclo (Franscois' affectionate nickname) imitator, now impersonates iconoclastic French singer-songwriter Michel Polnareff.

When a TV host announces a live primetime competition for celebrity imitators, featuring a handsome jackpot, Bernard's dormant ambition is provoked. Bernard and Couscous have a month to get their shows together, but a rival Cloclo, who has ruled since Bernard's retirement, has plans to sabotage his comeback.

This sweetly calibrated comedy, superbly brought to life by the talented cast, is funny, touching and ultimately a deft look at how ambition can hysterically clash with the demands of family. It has received 3 nominations at the 2005 Cesar Awards (French Academy Awards) for Best Actor, Best Supporting Actress and Best First Film.

France - 2004 - Comedy - 94 mins
In French with English subtitles

Director: Yann Moix
Script: Olivier Dazat, Yann Moix, Arthur Emmanuel Pierre (based on Moix's novel)
Cast: Benoit Poelvoorde, Jean-Paul Rouve, Julie Depardieu