This article is an excerpt from “ Asterix, a French myth “. In this issue, the sharpest feathers in the Figaro bring an offbeat, caustic, original and up-to-date look at this icon of French culture.

Everyone remembers the imperishable Asterix and Obelix: Mission Cleopatra released in 2002. Adapting the world of the irreducible Gauls has always been a challenge. Alain Chabat, child prodigy of Canal+ and king of offbeat humor, succeeded with flying colors. His choice casting and sophisticated vision of this parodic comic-book saga delighted over 14 million viewers. The film quickly became a cult hit.

More than twenty years later, Chabat returns to his first love. He once again takes on the world ofAsterix with Le Combat des chefs adapted this time into an animated series, produced by Netflix. The filmmaker has left the shores of ancient Egypt for a Gallic album set in the heart of the village. The director…