Fernandel (1903–1971)

This book is quite remarkable. In response to each question posed to him, Fernandel replies with a facial expression which speaks volumes. Amusing and at times side-splitting it is no wonder he is still one of the French speaking worlds most loved personalities.

In New York in 1948, photographer Philippe Halsman had a chance meeting with Fernandel, a French movie star from the vaudeville tradition, and asked the actor to participate in a completely original photographic experiment. Halsman would ask Fernandel questions about America to which he would respond using only facial expressions. 24 portrait plates.

"Un visage qui vaut plus que mille mot", disait A. Buchwald. Ce livre est extraordinaire ! A chaque question, le visage de Fernandel est photographié avec un trait répondant ainsi à l'interrogation posée. Splendide !