“Computing Life”? The iconic French tune, “La Vie en Rose,” is being revitalized through a new film project featuring the late Edith Piaf brought back to life using AI technology.
Titled “Edith,” the 90-minute movie will unfold in the vibrant settings of Paris and New York, spanning the eras from the 1920s to the 1960s. Warner Music Group has disclosed its collaboration with Piaf’s estate for this production. Known as the “Sparrow of Paris,” Edith Piaf passed away on October 10, 1963. The film aims to shed light on previously undisclosed facets of her life, employing an AI-generated rendition of Piaf’s voice.
Describing the project, the music company stated that through animation, viewers will witness pivotal moments from Piaf’s life, complemented by historical footage, stage performances, TV appearances, personal clips, and interviews, offering an intimate portrayal.
The film is a joint effort between Warner Music Entertainment and Seriously Happy, a production company. Following the successful demonstration of the concept, Warner Music Entertainment intends to collaborate with a studio for the full-length feature.
Warner Music highlighted that the use of AI, trained on a vast collection of Piaf’s recordings and images spanning decades, will enable the recreation of her distinctive voice and image, intensifying the emotional authenticity of her narrative. The movie will incorporate original recordings of her timeless songs, including classics like “La Vie en Rose” and “Non, je ne regretted rien.”
Penned by Julie Veille and Gilles Marliac, “Edith” is a pioneering endeavor. The duo, along with Charlie Cohen, the chairman of Warner Music Entertainment, are spearheading the transformation of this innovative concept into a cinematic reality.
Veille expressed profound gratitude for the opportunity to collaborate with Edith’s estate in modernizing her legacy. The central question driving the project was: What wisdom would Edith impart to present-day audiences if she were among us? Her story epitomizes resilience, transcending barriers and societal norms to achieve success—a narrative as relevant today as it was in her time. The aim is to present this timeless tale utilizing cutting-edge animation and technology to captivate audiences of all generations.
The trustees of Edith Piaf’s estate, Catherine Glavas and Christie Laume, shared their sentiments, emphasizing how the technology employed in the film has brought them closer to Edith’s essence. They anticipate that through this cinematic endeavor, Edith’s true essence—her jovial spirit, humor, and unwavering determination—will be vividly portrayed.
A teaser image from the “Edith” project was unveiled by Warner Music:
Alain Veille, CEO of Warner Music France, lauded Edith Piaf as a timeless symbol of French pride and artistic excellence. Recognizing the delicate balance required when merging new technologies with iconic figures, he underscored the significance of collaborating closely with Piaf’s estate to honor her legacy respectfully.
