A new feature centered on one of America’s most recognizable landmarks is moving forward in development. The filmmakers will explore the monument’s origins and the figures who brought it to life, highlighting the political, artistic and engineering forces that shaped its creation.
A movie about the origin of the Statue of Liberty is in development
A historical feature about the origin of the Statue of Liberty is in development, according to Variety. Christian Duguay is set to direct Lady Liberty, produced by Quad Cinéma and Gemma Pictures. The project will chart the creation of the monument.
In a joint release, the producers said the film will tell the backstory behind the birth of the Statue of Liberty, tracing the artistic audacity of Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, the political vision of Édouard de Laboulaye, and the engineering ingenuity of Gustave Eiffel. Set against the backdrop of the 19th century, the story follows the origins of the statue’s conception and construction.
The narrative centers on Bartholdi, described as a visionary artist, and Laboulaye, described as a revolutionary-minded lawyer. They embark on a project to offer the American people a colossal statue honoring their struggle for liberty and democracy. The release states that what begins as a gesture of Franco-American fraternity evolves into the intimate story of an unlikely friendship between two men united by ideals and tested by doubt.
The film highlights detractors, financial obstacles and technical challenges surrounding the statue’s construction. It presents the effort to build the Statue of Liberty as a constant battle under mounting pressure.
Duguay directed Jappeloup, A Bag of Marbles, adapted from Joseph Joffo’s novel, and Tempête. Quad Cinéma produced The Intouchables, which grossed $426 million worldwide. Stéphane Celerier founded Gemma Pictures after his previous company, Mars Films, co-produced La Famille Belier, later remade as the Oscar-winning CODA, as well as Two is a Family starring Omar Sy.
