Among Bigorre, Comminges, and Barousse, Fabrice Launay delivers a vibrant tribute to a territory he intimately knows with “Under the Sun of the Pyrenees.”
There are territories that are not meant to be told but experienced. With “Under the Sun of the Pyrenees,” Fabrice Launay creates more than a film: it is a declaration of love for a land that has shaped him. Between Bigorre, Comminges, and Barousse, the director shares an intimate and sensory narrative, at the crossroads of landscapes and human destinies.
The journey begins in Saint-Bertrand-de-Comminges, then elevates to the heights of Barousse, stretches out in Bigorre, and finally returns to its roots. A circular trajectory, reflecting a deep attachment. Born in Comminges and rooted in Barousse, Fabrice captures his daily life here, filled with cycling, fishing, and a passion for sports and nature. From the opening scenes, the tone is set: an Occitan song performed by recognized artists such as Arèlha group, followed by Boulevard des Airs, Mathy Saki, and the Doya Sisters. A choice that immediately places the film in a strong, vibrant, and acknowledged cultural identity.
But this documentary goes beyond showcasing landscapes. It primarily focuses on the men and women who make the heart of this territory beat. Craftsmen, producers, restaurateurs, and members of the PGHM of Luchon form a gallery of sincere portraits. “We often see gendarmes in a negative light, but in the mountains, they save lives,” the director points out, aiming to reestablish the credibility of these shadow figures.
The camera also lingers on the athletic commitment, another recurring theme in the film. The athletes filmed, all from the region, embody a discreet excellence. Among them, Julien and Guillaume Marchand stand as symbols of deeply rooted success.
Visually, the film impresses with its diverse shots. From drones to helicopters to onboard cameras, the Pyrenees are revealed from every angle, from the majestic Pic du Midi to the most hidden corners. Some nocturnal sequences add an almost mystical dimension to the whole.
Gastronomy is also emphasized. From snail farming in Saint-Bertrand-de-Comminges to the specialties of Gourmet Barousse, to Sebastien Arrieu’s cheeses, artisanal chocolate, cutlery, and the local Nestoise beer, it unveils a whole culinary heritage. Not to mention the traditional spit cake, emblem of the Pyrenean festivals.
Structured like a kaleidoscope, the film gathers these fragments into a coherent and vibrant patchwork.
With “Under the Sun of the Pyrenees,” Fabrice Launay successfully captures the essence of a territory without betraying it. A sincere, inhabited work that resonates as a deeply human tribute.
The first screening is scheduled for May 21 at the Regent. A long-awaited event celebrated locally.
