Transfert s01e22, quiz 1: sur scène

The above audio sample and transcription is from Transfert s01ep22. We do not own the content. Listen to the entire episode here.

On stage

Originally posted as “Find a home” August 2022….

I’m jumping in with a new podcast and a snippet from the start of Episode 22 of season 1 from Transfert.

In classes at AF, the teacher has emphasized intonation a good amount. The book even has exercises where you mark the intonation. But then, he’s also said “actually, when the French speak it sometimes is a monotone with the intonation on the last word, or the starting/connecting word (puis, ensuite), of the next thought.

I was trying to remember if that’s how I heard it in France, and the truth is closer to yes than no. At least, for my untrained ears to hear. When I hear a lot of intonation in French, it might be an Italian, Australian, or American speaking it – people who tend to have more rise and fall in their speaking.

I was thinking of that when I came across the “Transfert” podcast, and the way the speakers take to the topic. They are reading from a script, but it does get to that way of speaking of near monotone delivery. Which, as a learner, can be challenging. I’m used to my teacher’s delivery – exaggerated, fast and slow, act out words, anything to get us beginners to understand. This podcast is not that.

How much of this snippet are you understanding?

There’s absolutely no way that I could get through an entire podcast in French without melting my brain, that’s why I broke it up into snippets like this. Join me for the next snippet.

The snippet in English

Find a translation of this snippet here, how much of this did you hear?

The above translation by Deepl

What does “au César” mean?

Ah yes, the prestigious French film award ceremony known as “Les César.” Let’s dive into this.

Meaning and Usage:

• Translation: “Les César” translates to “The César Awards” in English.
• Description: The César Awards are the national film awards of France, first given out in 1976. They are considered the French equivalent of the Academy Awards in the USA.

Context:

“Les César” is an annual event and is recognized both nationally and internationally. Films, directors, actors, and other cinema professionals are honored in various categories.

Synonyms and Antonyms:

• Synonyms:
  • Récompenses du cinéma français (French cinema awards)
• Antonyms: While not exactly antonyms, other notable film award ceremonies include:
  • Les Oscars (The Academy Awards)
  • Les Golden Globes (The Golden Globes)

Variations:

There aren’t direct variations of “Les César,” but there are different categories within the awards, such as “César du meilleur film” (César for the best film) or “César du meilleur réalisateur” (César for the best director).

Idiomatic Usage:

Not particularly idiomatic, but “Remporter un César” means “To win a César Award.”

Cultural Notes:

• The awards are named after the French sculptor César Baldaccini, who designed the trophy.
• The César Awards ceremony is an influential event for the French film industry, bringing together its most prominent figures.
• Receiving a César can significantly boost a film’s audience, both in French theaters and abroad.
• As with many awards ceremonies, the Césars are not without controversy from time to time, concerning nominations, the selection process, or political stances.
• The ceremony often features notable hosts and performances, much like other entertainment award ceremonies around the world.

This award plays an integral role in France’s cinematic landscape and serves as a reflection of the country’s rich film culture and history.

What does “la réalisatrice” mean?

The term “la réalisatrice” is feminine and refers to a female film director in French cinema. Let’s delve deeper into this term.

Meaning and Usage:

• Translation: “La réalisatrice” translates to “the (female) director” in English.
• Description: It’s used to describe a woman who directs the making of a film.

Context:

“La réalisatrice” is a professional term used in the film and television industry. It’s neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.

Synonyms and Antonyms:

• Synonyms:
  • La metteuse en scène (when referring to theater direction)
• Antonyms:
  • Le réalisateur (The male director)

Variations:

The word “réalisateur” is the male counterpart. When referring to directors without specifying gender, or in the case of a group of directors that includes at least one male, “réalisateurs” is used.

Cultural Notes:

• French cinema has a rich history and has given rise to many internationally acclaimed réalisatrices.
• While the film industry worldwide has been historically male-dominated, French cinema has seen an increasing number of female directors gaining recognition both nationally and internationally.
• Some renowned French réalisatrices include Agnès Varda, Claire Denis, and Céline Sciamma. Their works have been celebrated for their unique perspectives and contributions to the world of cinema.
• Discussions about gender representation in cinema often bring up the term “réalisatrice” as part of broader conversations about equality and diversity in the arts.

In modern French culture, the visibility and contributions of “réalisatrices” are vital, reflecting broader societal discussions on gender equality and representation.

What does “sur scène” mean?

The phrase “sur scène” translates to “on stage” in English and is commonly used in contexts related to theater, music, and other live performances. Let’s explore this term in detail.

Meaning and Usage:

• Translation: “Sur scène” translates to “on stage” in English.
• Description: It refers to the physical space where performances, like plays, concerts, or dances, take place.

Context:

“Sur scène” is primarily used in the context of performing arts, whether it’s theater, live music, dance, or other forms of live entertainment.

Synonyms:

• En scène (though this can also mean “enter [the stage]” in theatrical directions)
• À l’affiche (when referring to what’s being shown or performed, but not the act of being on the stage itself)

Idiomatic Usage:

While “sur scène” is fairly straightforward, it can be found in various expressions and contexts, such as:

• “Il est né sur scène.” (He was born on stage.) – This can be used metaphorically to describe someone who seems naturally inclined to perform and be in the spotlight.

Cultural Notes:

• The French have a deep appreciation for live performances, from theater to concerts. This reverence is evident in the numerous theaters, concert halls, and festivals throughout France.
• The term “sur scène” can often evoke a sense of immediacy and intimacy, as live performances are an essential aspect of French culture.
• One of the most famous stages in France is the stage of the Comédie-Française, a revered institution in French theater in Paris.
• Live music festivals, like “Les Eurockéennes” or “Fête de la Musique,” are events where many artists perform “sur scène,” showcasing the country’s vibrant music scene.

In France, being “sur scène” is not just about the act of performing. It carries the weight of tradition, culture, and the intimate connection between the artist and the audience.

What is opening up for you?

Comment below with the words you thought you heard, where you struggled, where you surprised yourself, or what you thought about this clip. Every little bit inspires other learners, thank you for being that inspiration to others on their French fluency journey!