Doc Series ‘Building Paris’ from FTD Launches at Sunny Side of the Doc
Française TV Distribution has added the documentary “Building Paris” to its lineup, set to premiere at Sunny Side of the Doc from June 22-24. The film explores the 19th-century transformation of Paris under Emperor Napoleon III and Baron Haussmann, featuring exclusive access to landmarks like the Opéra Garnier and advanced visual effects. The two-part series, commissioned by France Télévisions, will air globally after being sold to over 35 countries.
What Happened
The documentary “Building Paris” focuses on the radical modernization of Paris beginning in 1853, when Emperor Napoleon III and Baron Haussmann initiated a citywide overhaul. The film highlights the city’s visible architecture, aerial views of its zinc rooftops, and hidden underground spaces. Director Guy Padovani emphasized the project’s scale, noting 60% of Paris was transformed, with 20,000 buildings demolished and 30,000 constructed. The film also reveals how Paris influenced urban planning in cities like Hangzhou, which replicated a Haussmannian neighborhood with a miniature Eiffel Tower.
Producer Patrice Gellé stated the documentary was commissioned for France Télévisions’ “Science Grand Format” strand and is part of the Global Doc initiative. Nearly one-third of the film’s budget was allocated to visual effects, including CGI sequences depicting a family witnessing Paris’s transformation. The Opéra Garnier’s underground lake, used by the Paris Fire Brigade for training, was also filmed exclusively.
Why It Matters
The documentary underscores Paris’s role as a model for modern urban planning, blending historical analysis with cutting-edge visuals. By showcasing the city’s 40-year transformation, the film highlights both its achievements—such as improved sanitation and infrastructure—and its controversies, including the displacement of residents and real-estate speculation. Julia Schulte of France TV Distribution noted the project aims to “reconnect global audiences with the medieval and rebuilt Paris,” emphasizing its lasting influence on global cities.
The film’s focus on Haussmann’s legacy also reflects broader conversations about urban development. By linking Paris’s past to contemporary examples like Hangzhou, the documentary illustrates how historical planning decisions shape modern metropolises. The use of VFX to visualize the city’s evolution adds a new dimension to historical storytelling, making complex urban changes accessible to general audiences.
What May Happen Next
The premiere at Sunny Side of the Doc could position “Building Paris” as a key title for international broadcasters, given its global distribution deal. Industry analysts suggest the documentary may spark renewed interest in 19th-century urban planning, particularly as cities grapple with modernization challenges. A potential next step could be partnerships with educational institutions or tourism boards to leverage the film’s historical content.
Given the success of previous France Télévisions projects like “The Eiffel Tower: Building the Impossible,” the documentary may also inspire similar ventures into other historical urban transformations. However, the project’s impact will depend on audience reception and how effectively it balances technical innovation with historical accuracy.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will “Building Paris” premiere? The documentary will debut at Sunny Side of the Doc from June 22-24.
What does the documentary cover? It explores the 19th-century transformation of Paris under Napoleon III and Haussmann, including architectural changes, hidden spaces, and global urban influence.
How is the documentary distributed? It has been sold to over 35 countries worldwide through France TV Distribution.
What role might historical documentaries play in shaping contemporary urban policies?