Brigitte Bardot Opens Up in Candid New Doc ‘Bardot’, First Trailer Premiered at Cannes
A new documentary about Brigitte Bardot offers a rare look into the life of the famous French actress, singer, and animal rights advocate.
Directed by Alain Berliner, known for Ma Vie en Rose, the film premiered recently at the Cannes Film Festival and focuses on Bardot’s journey from global stardom to a quiet life devoted to animals.
At 90 years old, Bardot agreed to share parts of her story on camera, letting viewers into her home in Saint-Tropez where she lives surrounded by horses, dogs, and other animals. The director wanted Bardot herself to narrate the film. “Not having an outside narrator, but have Brigitte Bardot be the one who tells the story,” Berliner explained to Variety.
The documentary traces Bardot’s early life, her rise to fame in the 1950s and 60s, and her decision to retire in 1973. Born in 1934 to a wealthy but strict family in Paris, Bardot rebelled early by marrying filmmaker Roger Vadim.
Vadim directed the film that made her a star worldwide, And God Created Woman, which challenged social norms with its bold portrayal of freedom and sexuality. Berliner summed it up by saying, “She helped Vadim become Vadim and he helped her become BB.”
Bardot was also known beyond the screen. The famous writer Simone de Beauvoir once described her as a key figure in women’s history, calling her a symbol of liberation in post-war France. However, Bardot does not identify as a feminist today.
She openly criticized the #MeToo movement and defended Gérard Depardieu after his conviction for sexual assault, a stance she shares with other actresses from her generation like Catherine Deneuve.
Berliner pointed out how complicated Bardot’s views are. “She insists very much that she likes men, and she’s not against them,” he said. “She does not want to be considered a feminist, even though she has lived like one. And I think that’s proof of the fact that Bardot is a free-thinker.”
Before retiring, Bardot appeared in nearly 50 films and recorded dozens of songs. The documentary also includes thoughts from figures like Stella McCartney, Naomi Campbell, and artist Marina Abramović. Bardot’s husband, Bernard d’Ormale, who is linked to the far-right political party Front National, also appears.
Despite Bardot’s willingness to share, Berliner says she remains a mystery. “She remains a very mysterious person,” he said.
Bardot’s story shows how fame can change a person. She became a worldwide icon but chose to step away from the spotlight. The documentary offers insight into her life and choices but leaves some questions unanswered.
In my opinion, it’s fascinating to see Bardot open up after so many years. Her mixed feelings about feminism and fame reflect how complicated public figures can be. What do you think about Bardot’s views and her decision to share her story now? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
