Television Programming in France in the Early 1970s

In the early 1970s, the French television landscape was diverse and reflective of the country's cultural and social landscape. Two major channels dominated, with a variety of shows across different genres, reflecting the era's blend of entertainment, education, and political discourse.

Notable Television Shows in the Early 1970s

Several programs stood out in the early 1970s, showcasing a broad range of content:

Les Dossiers de l'écran (1967-1990)

This current affairs program combined documentaries with discussions on a variety of topics, often featuring a panel of guests. It provided both in-depth analysis and public discourse on social and political issues, reflecting the era's focus on open dialogue and debate.

Les Raisins de la colère (1970)

A French adaptation of John Steinbeck’s novel, this show showcased the struggles of a family during the Great Depression. It served as both a historical piece and a critique of social conditions, resonating with audiences by highlighting the relatable human stories of the time.

Au théatre ce soir (1966-1985)

This program brought plays and theatrical performances to television, offering a blend of classic and contemporary French theater. It provided a platform for both established and emerging artists, enriching the cultural fabric of the country.

Les Visiteurs du mercredi (1967-1982)

suited for children, this program featured cartoons, educational segments, and live-action content aimed at young audiences. It was educational yet entertaining, combining different formats to engage a wide range of viewers.

Chansons et légendes (1971-1973)

A musical program that featured performances by popular French artists and explored the stories behind their songs, enriching the cultural scene and highlighting the significance of music in the 1970s.

La Caméra explore le temps (1964-1974)

This historical documentary series dramatized key events in history, often with a focus on French history. It aimed to educate viewers about the past while making history accessible and engaging.

Les Enfoirés (1986 onwards)

This charity concert series, while beginning later, reflects the growing trend of televised charity events that began in the 1970s. It has since become a significant cultural phenomenon in France.

L'Heure de vérité (1971-1990)

This political interview program featured prominent figures discussing current events and their implications. It provided an important platform for political discourse and informed the public about critical issues.

Television Channels and Content in the 1970s

The early 1970s saw France with only two major TV channels. These channels primarily focused on a mix of pre-recorded film screenings, TV series, and some original content. Screenings of classic and contemporary films were a staple of prime time, catering to viewers seeking both nostalgia and contemporary entertainment.

While there were many TV series, few are truly memorable. One exception is the historical series "Les rois maudits" (1972), often considered a TV masterpiece. This series, set during the outbreak of the 100 Years War, offers a gritty portrayal with a touch of fantasy, akin to "Game of Thrones." However, its indoor shooting style gives it a theatrical feel, making it look somewhat archaic by today's standards. Today, it can still be found in DVD form for those interested in the nostalgia market.

French crime period pieces saw immense popularity, including the likes of "Arsène Lupin" (1930s), "Les Brigades du tigre" (Belle époque), "Vidocq" (19th century), and "Commissaire Maigret" and other detective series. These series provided a mix of historical accuracy and engaging storytelling, appealing to viewers interested in the past.

Soap operas, though existing, were not as developed. However, "Les Gens de Mogador" is a notable period piece, offering a glimpse into the lives of characters from a different era. For viewers craving shorter, episodic content before dinner, shows like "L'Homme du Picardie," which focused on the life of a gruff bargeman and his family, managed to capture the hearts of audiences.

Children's programming was heavily centered around animal characters, many of which are iconic to French viewers but might not resonate with foreigners. One particularly bizarre series was "Les Shadoks," featuring strange bird-like creatures who lived on another planet. Though initially criticized, it quickly gained a cult following. A full-length movie was eventually made to further explore this unique concept.

The "Au théatre ce soir" program, which recorded boulevard comedies and classical plays, highlighted the diversity in French television content. In contrast to the BBC or ITV, classical plays were less popular, while literary talk shows hosted by Bernard Pivot gained popularity under different names.

European co-productions, particularly with Italy and Germany, were notable but not as numerous. One particularly impressive production was a beautiful rendering of Homer's "The Odyssey" (1968) shot in natural locations, showcasing the potential of the medium for storytelling.

While British and American series had limited presence in the 1970s, notable shows such as "Kojak" (CBS), "Columbo" (NBC/ABC), "Mission: Impossible" (CBS/ABC), "The Invaders/The New Invaders" (ABC/Fox), and "The Avengers/The New Avengers" (ITV) were featured in the afternoon for youth programs, reflecting the cross-cultural appeal of these series.