Asterix bei den Olympischen Spielen (Asterix at the Olympic Games, Astérix aux jeux olympiques)
France/Germany/Spain/Italy/Belgium 2008

Opening 31 Jan 2008

Directed by: Frédéric Forestier
Writing credits: René Goscinny, Albert Uderzo, Thomas Langmann, Olivier Dazat, Alexandre Charlot
Principal actors: Clovis Cornillac, Gerard Depardieu, Alain Delon, Benoît Poelvoorde, Stéphane Rousseau

Yet another one of the beloved comic adventure books from Asterix and Obelix makes its way to the screen. In the first film, which won one award and was nominated for three others in France, Asterix and Obelix take on Caesar. In the sequel, the adventurous pair meet the beautiful Cleopatra. This film won three awards in Germany and was nominated for another in France. Now Asterix (Clovis Cornillac) and Obelix (Gerard Depardieu) go to the Olympics to help their friend Gallier Romantix (Stephane Rousseau) win the hand of the Greek princess Irina (Vanessa Hessler). Unfortunately, it will be difficult since they are not allowed to use their magic potion. Anyone who knows their comics also recognizes that this script has been changed to provide a role for a beautiful actress. Gerard Depardieu, the perfect Obelix, is the only actor to appear in all three films. The only character which seems like a lame duck is Troubadix (Franck Dubosc). Although the film has a sophisticated humor with references to other films which appeals to adults, it is also enjoyable for kids. We will just have to see which countries nominate the film and for which awards! By Frederic Forestier and Thomas Langmann. (Shelly Schoeneshoefer)