Cesar Winner Sarah Kaminsky Reunites With ‘Call My Agent!’ Star Laure Calamy for Coen-Style Movie ‘Las Vegas Thérapie,’ Filming Across Nevada and Utah

Fresh off her recent César win for co-writing the acclaimed film “Un ours dans le Jura” (also known internationally as “How to Make a Killing”), French screenwriter Sarah Kaminsky is embarking on an ambitious directorial debut with “Las Vegas Thérapie.” This French comedy-thriller, boasting a substantial budget of €13 million, has commenced principal photography across the distinctive landscapes of Nevada and Utah. Kaminsky, who has earned recognition for her sharp writing, is not only directing but also penned the screenplay for this new venture.

Headlining the cast is Laure Calamy, a celebrated French actress widely recognized for her captivating role in the international hit series “Call My Agent!” (Dix pour cent). Calamy's involvement brings significant star power to the project, potentially enhancing its appeal to a global audience. The film's narrative is being described as possessing a "Coen Brothers-esque" tone, a stylistic comparison that suggests a deliberate embrace of the acclaimed American filmmaking duo's signature blend of dark humor, eccentric characters, intricate plotting, and often surreal situations. This influence hints at a sophisticated yet entertaining cinematic experience.

The choice of Nevada and Utah as primary filming locations is a strategic one, likely intended to leverage the unique visual identity of these American Western states. The vast, often stark desert scenery, iconic roadside attractions, and the inherent sense of isolation and possibility associated with these regions are expected to play a crucial role in establishing the film's atmosphere and thematic underpinnings. The €13 million budget signifies a considerable investment for a French production, underscoring the ambition and scale Kaminsky and her team are aiming for with “Las Vegas Thérapie.” This financial backing suggests a commitment to high production values and a desire to create a visually compelling and narratively engaging film.

Kaminsky's transition from a celebrated screenwriter to a director leading a feature film of this scope represents a significant career milestone. Her previous success at the César Awards, France's national film awards, for “Un ours dans le Jura” (released in 2022) demonstrates her established talent within the French film industry. The collaboration with Laure Calamy, an actress known for her versatility and critical acclaim, further solidifies the project's artistic credentials. As filming progresses through May and into the summer months across the American West, anticipation is building for further details regarding the specific plot, supporting cast, and how Kaminsky will translate the Coen Brothers' influential style into her own directorial voice within the unique setting of Las Vegas and its surrounding territories.