Lily and I Wanted to Take It to the Next Level: Lucas Bravo on Baring It All in His Bold New Cannes Film—and Gabriel’s Future in Emily in Paris
As the sun blazed down on the glamorous Croisette, it felt like an episode straight out of “Emily in Paris.” On a bustling day at the Cannes Film Festival, I made my way through the throng and entered Le Majestic’s lively lobby. Ascending to Lucas Bravo’s suite, he greeted me with an affable smile, dressed immaculately in black. It was clear—this was no ordinary day. Bravo, known for his role as chef Gabriel in the Netflix hit “Emily in Paris,” had come not just to promote a new season of the show but to shine a light on a daring new project: “The Balconettes.” Directed by Noémie Merlant, this film marked a significant departure from Bravo’s usual roles.
Embracing New Challenges
In the thriller “The Balconettes,” Bravo portrays a character far removed from Gabriel’s gentlemanly charm. Set against the backdrop of a sweltering Marseille heatwave, he takes on the role of a dashing yet sinister neighbor—a part that required him to dive deep into his acting range. The film’s narrative weaves horror and humor as three strong women navigate their complicated relationship with Bravo’s character.
From Emily in Paris to Cannes
The juxtaposition between his roles in “Emily in Paris” and “The Balconettes” couldn’t be more striking. While Gabriel is polished and refined, the character in Merlant’s film embraces a rawer, edgier persona—showcasing Bravo’s versatility as an actor. This new venture was well-received at Cannes, earning a standing ovation that left Bravo both humbled and invigorated.
Lucas’s Cannes Experience
The experience of premiering “The Balconettes” at Cannes has been transformative for Bravo, who admits to battling imposter syndrome. The festival’s focus on cinema provided him with an exhilarating sense of belonging among artists dedicated to storytelling.
Fashion and the Cannes Film Festival
At Cannes, fashion is inseparable from film. For actors like Lucas Bravo, dressing for red carpet events requires a balance between elegance and personal comfort. This season, he chose Zegna for its classic yet understated style—a perfect choice for someone who seeks to feel both protected and confident.
A Character Study: The Balconettes
“The Balconettes” delves into themes of objectification and desire, pushing Bravo to explore complex facets of his character. His portrayal challenges traditional notions of attractiveness, presenting a nuanced take on male charm that is both seductive and predatory.
Nudity as Normalization
Bravo’s film also tackles the topic of nudity with an unapologetic openness. This normalization within the film reflects broader societal conversations about body positivity and freedom—an aspect Bravo found particularly rewarding to explore on screen.
The Future of Emily in Paris: Gabriel’s Journey
In the upcoming season 4 of “Emily in Paris,” viewers will witness significant character development for both Lily Collins’s Emily and Lucas Bravo’s Gabriel. The series takes a mature turn, focusing on their relationship dynamics and personal growth.
The Complexities of Love
Gabriel finds himself at a crossroads, grappling with his relationships with Camille and Emily. Bravo reflects on the evolving chemistry between him and Collins as they navigate this new season’s challenges, aiming to create authentic portrayals of conflict and resolution.
A New Direction for Gabriel
Looking ahead, Bravo envisions a more environmentally conscious path for Gabriel, perhaps even striving for a green Michelin star. This aspiration aligns with his desire to use the show’s platform responsibly, highlighting sustainable practices in the culinary world.
Beyond Emily: A Leading Role in Sulak
After “Emily in Paris,” Bravo is set to take on a leading role in Mélanie Laurent’s “Sulak.” This project offers him an opportunity to delve into the life of Bruno Sulak, a legendary jewel thief—a stark contrast to Gabriel’s culinary adventures.
Embracing New Responsibilities
Stepping into a lead role has allowed Bravo to explore new dimensions of his craft. By fostering collaboration and creativity on set, he hopes to create an environment where spontaneity thrives—an essential departure from the industry’s often self-reflective nature.
A Personal Growth Journey
Through “Sulak,” Bravo finds joy in being a central figure while ensuring that storytelling remains at the heart of his work. It’s a role that not only challenges him but also enriches his artistic journey, promising viewers an exhilarating cinematic experience.
Conclusion: A New Chapter
Lucas Bravo’s journey from “Emily in Paris” to Cannes and beyond reflects a dynamic evolution as both an actor and storyteller. With projects like “The Balconettes” and “Sulak,” he continues to push boundaries, exploring new narratives and themes that resonate with audiences worldwide.