Co-production of a thriller on a French aircraft carrier
Le Charles, a six-episode thriller filmed on the French nuclear aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle, is the first co-production between Prime Video and M6. The series premiered on October 23, 2026, on Prime Video, marking a new economic model that involves staggered distribution across both platforms.Partnership rationale
According to Julien Despaux, director of Le Charles, the project required at least two broadcasters to be financially viable, given the high costs of filming on an active military vessel. Prime Video brings international distribution and premium production experience, while M6 ensures the series connects with the French television audience.Staggered distribution strategy
Prime Video premiered the six episodes on October 23, 2026, aiming to capitalize on the binge-watching trend. M6 will broadcast the series in 2027, targeting a traditional audience and generating additional revenue through advertising. This approach allows the content to reach different markets without competing with itself.Economic impact of filming
The filming, which took place in January 2026 in Toulon, where the Charles de Gaulle was docked, brought local economic benefits by employing technical teams, logistics providers, and accommodation services. The involvement of well-known French actors, including Élodie Yung, Jacques Gamblin, and Alban Lenoir, also boosted the project's appeal.Logistical and financial challenges
Filming aboard the Charles de Gaulle presented logistical and financial challenges, such as confined spaces, strict military safety protocols, and limited access to locations. These constraints led to increased costs, including specialized equipment, insurance, and coordination with military personnel.Military collaboration benefits
The collaboration with the Mission cinéma of the Ministry of Defense and Veterans provided significant economic and logistical advantages, allowing the production to access the carrier and use military technical advisors. This partnership enhanced the series' authenticity and helped the French military improve its public image.Testing the release strategy
The release schedule and audience strategy were tested at the La Rochelle Fiction Festival in September 2026, allowing adjustments before the public launch. The exact date for M6's 2027 broadcast will depend on the performance of the series on Prime Video. Whether a second season is produced will be determined by data on profitability, including audience engagement, subscription numbers, and advertising revenue.
