The French docudrama "Culte" (in French, with subtitles), available on Amazon Prime Video, offers a captivating behind-the-scenes look at the birth of reality television in France. This messy and emotional journey chronicles the conflicts, controversies, and triumphs surrounding the creation of "Loft Story," a French adaptation of the hit show "Big Brother." Through the eyes of a determined TV producer, the series delves into the challenges, societal debates, and unexpected consequences that unfolded as this groundbreaking reality show took the nation by storm.

Unraveling the Captivating Saga of a Pioneering French Reality TV Series

The Inception of a Controversial Concept

The story begins with Isabelle, a stymied TV producer, who seizes the opportunity to bring the "Big Brother" format to France. However, the industry bigwigs are initially averse to the idea, dismissing reality shows as "voyeuristic, macabre, and mind-numbing." One executive even declares, "We can't be the nation of Chartres cathedral and 12 dummies living in an apartment." Undeterred, Isabelle vows to create a politically provocative social experiment that reflects the diversity of French society. As the production countdown begins, her grander ambitions give way to the realities of reality TV casting, as she rounds up a cast of "sexy drama llamas" and lets the cameras roll.

The Unexpected Frenzy and Societal Backlash

The launch of "Loft Story" ignites a nationwide debate, with critics and the public grappling with the implications of this new genre of entertainment. The hand-wringing over the "dangers of lowbrow entertainment" feels almost quaint in retrospect, as one character wonders, "Does French TV still have morals?" However, the allure of lurid tabloid stories and the pursuit of ratings soon take center stage. A network head, with a gleam in his eye, declares, "The Americans have a term for this: 'Buzz.'" "Loft Story" indeed becomes a ratings bonanza, captivating the nation and setting the stage for a new era of reality television.

The Moral Ambiguities and Societal Reflections

"Culte" navigates the complex web of moral ambiguities surrounding "Loft Story." The show's participants do not try to occupy a moral high ground, nor could they realistically do so. Instead, they wander the "bumpy natural topologies of society," blurring the lines between high and low, as the series explores the diverse perspectives and societal implications of this groundbreaking reality TV phenomenon.

The Lasting Impact and Legacy

The success of "Loft Story" not only transformed the French television landscape but also had far-reaching societal implications. The series' ability to captivate audiences, spark debates, and challenge societal norms paved the way for a new era of reality television in France. "Culte" serves as a compelling and insightful exploration of this pivotal moment in French media history, offering a nuanced perspective on the conflicts, controversies, and lasting impact of this pioneering reality TV show.