Potiche

Potiche is a 2006 French comedy film directed by François Ozon. The screenplay, written by Ozon and Alain Giresse, is based on the play La grosse jambe by Marc-Antoine Leclerc de la Bruère, conceived in the 1950s as a satire about labor unions. The title, which literally means "big cushion" in French, refers to the central object that transforms the protagonist's life.

The film follows Anne Lacks, a housewife whose family becomes involved in a labor dispute at a sailmaker's factory in the 1970s. After her husband and brother–in–law are dismissed, Anne purchases a large cushion—a potent symbol of resistance—and uses her newfound influence to rally the workers. Catherine Deneuve stars as Anne, with supporting roles by Arnaud Desplechin, Gamze Karakaş, and Mélanie Laurent. Supporting actors include Nicolas Blanc and Élodie Bouchez.

Produced by Les Films du Crépuscule, Potiche was shot over eight weeks in Normandy and parts of Paris. Its production budget was approximately €4.5 million, and the film grossed over €18 million worldwide, making it one of Ozon’s most commercially successful works. Critical reception highlighted the film’s sharp commentary on gender roles and labor politics; reviewers praised its balance of humor and social critique.

At the 2006 César Awards, the film received nominations for Best Film, Best Director, and Best Original Screenplay. It was also screened at the Locarno Film Festival, where it won the Audience Award. In the United States, Potiche was released by Paramount Classics in 2007, with subtitles in multiple languages. The film remains a notable entry in contemporary French cinema for its blending of period comedy with progressive themes.