The film was not shot in France, but in Malta, specifically on the island of Gozo. This allowed recreating the atmosphere of the French Riviera of the 1970s. Gozo, a picturesque island with a rich history and culture, served as the perfect location for this intimate drama. The tranquil setting and Mediterranean landscapes provided a fitting backdrop for exploring the complexities of Vanessa and Roland's marriage. The choice of filming location in Malta added uniqueness to the film, bringing its own distinct flavor, different from the French one.

Filming Locations:

Hotel

In the Movie

Scene where Vanessa and Roland settle into a hotel by the sea. Vanessa, a former dancer, spends her days indulging in nostalgia and sadness, often locking herself in their room, while Roland, a writer, seeks solace in alcohol at the local bar, hoping to overcome writer's block. They barely speak, and when they do, they often argue, expressing pent-up pain and disappointment. Vanessa smokes a lot and takes pills, while Roland tries to write but fails. Most of the time they spend in different corners of the room, each in their own shell, until their routine is disrupted by the arrival of a newlywed couple in the next room.

In Reality

The scene was filmed in Mġarr ix-Xini Bay on the island of Gozo, Malta. This picturesque bay was chosen for its atmosphere and similarity to the French Riviera of the 1970s. A hotel was specially built as a set for the film to convey the necessary sense of seclusion and melancholy. After filming, the hotel was removed, and the bay returned to its original state.

Restaurant

In the Movie

Scene where Roland decides to take Vanessa to a local restaurant in hopes of reviving their relationship. However, Vanessa reluctantly agrees, showing disinterest and irritation. The atmosphere at the table is tense, and Vanessa seems detached and uninterested in conversation. Trying to lighten the mood, Roland unexpectedly asks Vanessa to dance. At first, Vanessa refuses, but Roland insists, and she reluctantly agrees. This moment is meant to show their attempt to bridge the emotional distance and rekindle the spark in their relationship.

In Reality

The scene was filmed at the Ta' Frenċ restaurant on the island of Gozo. The restaurant was chosen for filming because, firstly, its cozy and refined atmosphere, as well as its beautiful historic building, perfectly suited creating the 1970s atmosphere in which the film is immersed. Secondly, Ta' Frenċ is known for its exquisite cuisine and wine cellar, which added realism and elegance to the scene. Finally, the restaurant's remoteness from tourist centers allowed the film crew to create the necessary sense of seclusion and intimacy, which was important for conveying the emotional state of the main characters.

Square with Church

In the Movie

Scene where Roland waits for Vanessa by their cream-colored convertible parked on a beautiful square. She is still in the church. He stands, glancing around, examining the details of the surroundings. The square is filled with the sounds of everyday life: birds chirping, voices of passersby, distant bells ringing. He looks thoughtfully at the old buildings, as if trying to find answers to his questions in the architecture. His gaze wanders, reflecting impatience and inner struggle, as he waits for Vanessa to come out of the church.

In Reality

The scene was filmed at the Church of St. Margaret in the village of Sannat on the island of Gozo, Malta. This location was chosen for its authentic architecture and quiet, historical atmosphere, which perfectly captures the spirit of a small European town. The Baroque church with its majestic facade and the surrounding square create a visually impressive backdrop for the scene.