In honor of the 2024 Paris Olympics, South African filmmaker Anant Singh has produced two documentary features: “Pierre de Coubertin: An Olympic Life” and “Paris 1924: An Olympic Epic.” These films arrive 100 years after the 1924 Paris Games, marking the centennial of the Olympics’ return to the French capital.
Both documentaries have secured broadcast deals: SuperSport will air them in South Africa, while Canal+ will showcase them on their Planete+ and myCanal platforms in French territories. The premieres are scheduled for July 22nd at SuperSport in Randburg and July 23rd on Canal+, just three days before the Paris Games begin.
Tribute to the Father of the Modern Olympics
“Pierre de Coubertin: An Olympic Life” delves into the legacy of Pierre de Coubertin, the visionary who revived the ancient Olympic Games in 1896. Credited as the founder of the modern Olympics, Coubertin served as the International Olympic Committee (IOC) president until the end of the 1924 Paris Games. The film, directed by Ady Walter and co-produced by Anant Singh, Myriam Weil, and edited by Amal Doghmi, sheds light on Coubertin’s life and his enduring impact on the Olympic movement.
A Glimpse into the 1924 Games
“Paris 1924: An Olympic Epic” celebrates the centennial of the Games’ return to Paris. This remastered documentary captures a pivotal moment in history – a time of peace and unity following World War I, marked by the Olympic spirit. The film explores the grandeur of the 1924 Games’ opening ceremony, the challenges of organizing the event, and the electrifying atmosphere for athletes and spectators alike. Beautifully restored footage offers a window into the meticulous preparations and the athletic feats of a bygone era.
Significantly, the 1924 Games were the first ever filmed. This documentary utilizes the digitized and re-edited original footage, making it accessible to modern audiences. Written and directed by Amal Doghmi, the film offers a unique historical perspective.
Anant Singh’s Enthusiasm and International Collaboration
Anant Singh expressed his excitement about the films’ release, highlighting their timely nature leading up to the Paris Olympics. He emphasizes “Pierre de Coubertin: An Olympic Life” as a tribute to the visionary leader and its special significance in celebrating the 130th anniversary of the IOC’s formation and the centennial of Coubertin’s presidency. He also underscores the relevance of “Paris 1924: An Olympic Epic,” providing a glimpse into the past while marking the Games’ return to the French capital. Singh acknowledges the successful collaboration with Federation on “Pierre de Coubertin: An Olympic Life” and expresses his delight in partnering with Canal+ and SuperSport for broadcasting the films.
French Recognition of the Project
The French Ambassador to South Africa, Mr. David Martinon, applauded the documentaries as a testament to the successful partnership between French and South African companies. He acknowledges Baron de Coubertin’s national significance in France and expresses his appreciation for reliving the excitement of the 1924 Paris Games. He further praises Anant Singh’s work and his contribution in highlighting the important French connection to the Olympic Games.