Madame Claude

Infamous French brothel keeper's power and downfall

Watch on Netflix
About Madame Claude

Released: 2021

Platform: Netflix

Rating: TV-MA

Run time: 1h 52m

Cast
Karole Rocher, Garance Marillier, Roschdy Zem, Pierre Deladonchamps, Liah O'Prey, Paul Hamy, Mylène Jampanoï, Hafsia Herzi, Regina Anikiy, Annabelle Belmondo, Joséphine de La Baume

About Madame Claude

Madame Claude is a French drama TV show released in 2021. The show is set in the 1960s and follows the story of Madame Claude, a powerful and enigmatic figure who runs a high-class brothel in Paris. Tackling themes of power, control, and desire, the show delves into the complex relationships between Madame Claude and her girls, as well as the political and social dynamics of the era.

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Making / Production

Madame Claude was created by Sylvie Verheyde, who also directed the show. The series was produced by Mandarin Télévision and stars Karole Rocher in the titular role. The production aimed to capture the glamour and grit of 1960s Paris, with meticulous attention to detail in set design, costumes, and period-appropriate props.

Actors

  • Karole Rocher as Madame Claude - Rocher brings depth and complexity to the character of Madame Claude, portraying her as a shrewd businesswoman with a hidden vulnerability.
  • Garance Marillier as Sidonie - Marillier plays Sidonie, one of Madame Claude's top girls, with a mix of ambition and naivete that adds layers to her character.
  • Roschdy Zem as Jo Attia - Zem portrays Jo Attia, a charismatic gangster who becomes entangled in Madame Claude's world, with charm and menace.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

  • The character of Madame Claude is based on a real-life figure, Fernande Grudet, who was a prominent French brothel keeper in the 20th century.
  • The show's costume design was inspired by iconic 1960s fashion trends, with a focus on sleek silhouettes and bold colors.
  • Madame Claude received critical acclaim for its nuanced portrayal of female agency and power dynamics.

Quotes

  • "In this world, power is everything." - Madame Claude
  • "Desire can be a dangerous game." - Sidonie
  • "Money, power, and pleasure - the trifecta of Madame Claude's empire." - Jo Attia

Music, Soundtrack

The soundtrack of Madame Claude features a mix of period-appropriate songs and original score that enhances the show's mood and atmosphere. From smooth jazz tunes to dramatic orchestral pieces, the music sets the tone for the decadent world of Madame Claude.