France 2 broadcasts "Au sein des autres"
On Wednesday, October 28, 2026, France 2 will air the film Au sein des autres, directed by Sofia Essaïdi and Yoann Zimmer. The film focuses on how illness affects personal lives and the support systems that emerge during difficult times.Film highlights illness and human connection
Au sein des autres was awarded three times at the La Rochelle Fiction Festival 2026. It portrays illness and the relationships formed during hardship without reducing characters to their struggles. The film was discussed by its directors, who shared insights about its themes and emotional depth.Essaïdi's personal connection to the subject
Sofia Essaïdi mentioned that she has been a caregiver and that illness is a significant part of her life. She had long wanted to make a film about it, and her collaboration with director Vania Leturcq inspired her to pursue the project. Essaïdi appreciated the creative freedom Vania gave her as an actress.Zimmer's interest in exploring masculinity
Yoann Zimmer wanted to work with Vania, whose previous work he admired. He was drawn to the film’s portrayal of a man whose confidence is shaken by illness, a topic rarely explored in cinema. Zimmer noted that the film addresses a masculinity often overlooked in storytelling.Breaking taboos about breast cancer in men
Both Essaïdi and Zimmer said they were unaware men could be affected by breast cancer before working on the film. Essaïdi expressed joy at being able to discuss the topic on television, aiming to break taboos and raise awareness. She emphasized the importance of exploring how breast cancer affects men’s sense of identity and masculinity.Balancing emotion and realism in the film
Zimmer said Vania’s direction helped avoid overly sentimental scenes while still capturing real emotions. The director encouraged the actors to perform scenes from different perspectives, allowing them to explore a range of emotions and find unexpected moments of lightness or sadness.Essaïdi on the importance of humor and lightness
Essaïdi emphasized that humor and lightness are crucial in facing illness, helping people cope with its weight. She praised the film for finding a realistic balance, crediting Vania’s direction for achieving this equilibrium.Essaïdi's emotional experience portraying Nour
Portraying Nour, Essaïdi described the role as difficult, noting the character’s feelings of loss and the impact on her femininity. She mentioned wearing prostheses during filming, which was emotionally challenging. She acknowledged the distress of women who face similar experiences and the societal pressure that equates womanhood with having breasts.Zimmer on Fabrice and redefining masculinity
Through the character of Fabrice, the film explores how men struggle with vulnerability. Zimmer discussed the societal expectations that men face and how Fabrice’s journey challenges these norms. He believed it is important for men to confront their emotions and redefine their identities, especially in light of growing movements that emphasize traditional masculinity.
