Rainier III by Himself

Produced by

Check Productions

Production year2023

Programme formatOne-off

GenresDocumentary

Runtime 52 min

Synopsis

When he ascends to the throne in 1949, Prince Rainier inherits a principality ‘out of breath,’ narrowly avoiding annexation by France at the end of the war. Despite his seemingly shy appearance, the young sovereign is determined. ‘I want to dispel the legend of a operetta-like country. I want us to be taken seriously!’ He will learn the trade of being a prince. ‘A lonely, solitary profession. Throughout history, and especially here on the shores of the Mediterranean, where there is still a bit of the intrigue of the Florentine courts. One must be wary, both of flatterers and detractors.’ Rainier III will transform its economy, stand up to world leaders like General de Gaulle or billionaire Aristotle Onassis, and succeed in putting his small country on the world map. He will dedicate his life to one thing: ‘to be respected.’ From his solitary childhood to the ovation he received during his final public appearance at the International Circus Festival, the Monégasque sovereign narrates the significant milestones of his life in this exceptional film, thanks to the audio recordings made throughout his reign.