Louis de Funès classic Rabbi Jacob to be rebroadcast on France 2

The classic French comedy “Les Aventures de Rabbi Jacob” (1973), directed by Gérard Oury, is being rebroadcast on France 2. The film follows Victor Pivert, an irascible industrialist who must disguise himself as a rabbi to escape terrorists.

Co-screenwriter Danièle Thompson revealed that during filming, Louis de Funès initially refused to perform a key scene involving his signature facial expressions. The actor was reportedly weary of contemporary criticisms regarding his physical comedy and gestures. Despite this hesitation, the film became a massive success, attracting over 7.2 million viewers in France and topping the 1973 box office.

The film is noted for its themes of tolerance and its fast-paced, adventure-style narrative. It marked the final collaboration between Oury and de Funès, following their previous successes such as “La Grande Vadrouille”.