A new documentary titled L'Art de la Débâcle examines the evolution of political primary debates in France between 2006 and 2016. These debates, which were a key part of the process for selecting candidates for the presidential elections, are explored through interviews with former candidates and historical pollsters. The film includes appearances from figures such as Manuel Valls, Jean-François Copé, Valérie Pécresse, Brice Teinturier, and Frédéric Dabi, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the intense and often dramatic nature of these events. Directed by Pauline Pallier, the documentary also features analyses from Michèle Cotta and Patrice Duhamel, two experts in political communication and polling. They discuss how the structure and presentation of these debates influenced public perception and, by extension, the outcomes of the presidential elections. The film highlights how the debates often turned into media spectacles, with candidates vying for public favor in a highly visible and competitive environment. One notable point of discussion is the role of François Hollande, the former socialist president, who is mentioned in relation to the impact of these debates. The film notes that while most participants in the debates did not go on to win the presidency, Hollande was an exception, suggesting that his performance in these early stages of the campaign may have played a significant role in his eventual success. Produced by a team that includes former candidates from across the political spectrum, the documentary aims to provide a balanced view of the debates’ influence on French politics. By bringing together a range of perspectives, the film seeks to shed light on the complex interplay between media, public opinion, and political strategy during this period.