« 4 Zeros »: The iconic comedy about the excesses of football is revived 22 years after « 3 Zeros »

The French cinema is experiencing a return to its roots with the release of “4 Zéros”, reconnecting with the spirit of early 2000s comedy.

For fans of films that blend humor and social critique, this new release by
Fabien Onteniente was eagerly anticipated as a breath of fresh air.

After “3 Zéros”, this film manages to surprise while maintaining the essence of its predecessor. But why such strong enthusiasm for comedies about the underbelly of football?

A look back at the success of “3 Zéros”

A Significant Cinematic Legacy

At the dawn of the new century, “3 Zéros” had already established itself as a sharp satire, exploring the behind-the-scenes of Parisian football with a star-studded cast including Gérard Lanvin, Stomy Bugsy, and Lorant Deutsch.

Skillfully mixing humor and revelations, the film went beyond mere entertainment to become a social commentary.

The audience was captivated, reflecting massive support with over 1.2 million spectators.

But what truly resonated with cinephiles? Could it be the realism with which football’s underbelly was portrayed?

Characters, Stories, and More

Led by the charismatic Tibor Kovacs, played by Lorant Deutsch, the story drew its strength from its authentic and endearing characters. The journey of a football prodigy immersed in the complex world of agents was captivating.

Like any satirical comedy, it did not escape criticism regarding the exaggeration of certain stereotypes.

“4 Zéros”: A Necessary Modernization

With “4 Zéros”, Fabien Onteniente offers a rebirth of his cult work. But how to maintain continuity without redundancy? The story focuses on the return of Alain Colonna, now retired, who discovers a hidden young talent among the workers of the family restaurant.

This continuum not only brings back characters, but also explores new issues, particularly
the feminization of football.

However, the topic of women’s football, originally at the heart of the screenplay, was not developed as much as some had hoped.

The presence of stars like Paul Pogba in the cast adds a touch of novelty. He is accompanied by Isabelle Nanty and Kaaris, each bringing fresh dynamism to the narrative. As for the direction, Onteniente works to inject a modern perspective with the help of his co-screenwriter, Antonin Fourlon. The latter has managed to preserve the unique flavor of genre codes.

However, some purists of the first film may feel a certain lack in these new narrative dynamics.

Getting such a project off the ground was no easy task. Despite a substantial budget of 10 million euros, the director faced significant challenges, including a tight shooting schedule. Nevertheless, Gérard Lanvin confesses admiration for Onteniente’s tenacity, describing his journey as a “true cinematic adventure.”

Thanks to prestigious partnerships, notably with the PSG Foundation, “4 Zéros” achieved the feat of filming on the legendary Poissy campus. A first exploring a high place in professional football, providing an extra layer of credibility.

The film promises to touch hearts by celebrating the popular love for this sport. However, in the previews, some emotional scenes underdeveloped narrative aspects that viewers had hoped to see explored further.