In October 1972, iconic actress Brigitte Bardot visited Dunkerque to film scenes for a movie. She was accompanied by Jane Birkin, another prominent figure in the film industry. The film was directed by Roger Vadim, one of Bardot’s ex-husbands.
Dunkerque: Filming with Brigitte Bardot and Jane Birkin
This brief visit occurred shortly after Bardot celebrated her 38th birthday on September 28. The film they were working on originally had the title “Si Don Juan était une femme.” Bardot and Birkin filmed aboard the Vortigern, a ferry operating between Dunkerque and Dover.
Details of the Shooting
- Date of arrival: October 5, 1972
- Time of boarding: Approximately 11:30 PM
- Time of disembarkation: October 6 at 1:00 PM
- Witnesses: Few, as the timing was unexpected.
Bardot’s arrival caused quite a stir. Originally expected around 1 AM, she arrived much earlier, leaving little time for fans or press to greet her. Upon disembarking the following day, she quickly entered a waiting car, emphasizing her elusive celebrity status.
Legacy of the Visit
This visit to Dunkerque remains a memorable moment in the careers of both Bardot and Birkin. It reflects the allure and mystique that surrounded Bardot during her illustrious career. As Jean Sename noted, Bardot’s presence was likened to that of a comet—swift and striking.
Dunkerque continues to be a unique backdrop for cinematic history, cherished by fans and historians alike.
