Victor-Artus Solaro, aka Artus, embodies much more than just a comedian today: he is the figure of a generation of daring artists, capable of breaking boundaries and surprising where least expected. His film Un p’tit truc en plus, cinematic phenomenon of the year 2024 with 10.8 million admissions, marks a turning point in the career of a man whose story is anything but conventional.
From Modest Beginnings to Conquering the Stage
Born on August 17, 1987, in Chesnay, Artus grew up in Lavérune, a Languedoc village where he discovered his love for performance early on. His childhood was marked by frequent moves, notably to Switzerland, which shaped in him a curious and offbeat view of the world. The son of an IT executive and a saleswoman, he initially followed a path far from the spotlight: a vocational diploma in cooking, before veering towards dramatic arts. His training at Cours Florent and with Anne Torrès provided him with the tools to carve out a place on stage.
Between 2011 and 2014, his notable appearance on the show On n’demande qu’à en rire skyrocketed his fame. With a sharp wit and a unique ability to juggle between derision and tenderness, he won over a broad and loyal audience. Yet, Artus does not confine himself to the realm of humor. He explores theater, television, and especially cinema, proving that his creativity far exceeds the boundaries of stand-up.
Un p’tit truc en plus: The Gamble of Disarming Sincerity
In 2024, Artus embarks on a bold adventure: his first film as a director, Un p’tit truc en plus. This feature film, which deals with rare subtlety on disability, defies all expectations. Where some saw just another comedy, Artus delivers a poignant, funny, and deeply human work. The film does not just charm: it moves.
At the heart of this success is a clear artistic vision and a commitment to inclusivity. Artus chooses to include actors with disabilities in central roles, giving the film a rare authenticity. "I wanted the screen to reflect real life, with its imperfections, clumsiness, and bursts of laughter," he confides. And the audience is not mistaken: the success is dazzling, both in theaters and in the discussions it sparks.
A Physical and Mental Transformation
The year 2024 also marks a personal turning point for Artus. Long overweight, he decides to take on a challenge that combines health and profession: losing 35 kilos to portray a character in La Pampa, his next film scheduled for 2025. "It wasn’t just a matter of appearance. I wanted to feel in tune with myself, physically and mentally," he explains in an interview.
After a strict diet and intense physical preparation, Artus reconnects with a new energy. "Today, I feel liberated, ready to take on roles that demand everything from me," he says. This change, as spectacular as it is beneficial, illustrates a determination that runs throughout his career.
Behind the Scenes of Success: Anecdotes and Humanity
The filming of Un p’tit truc en plus is full of unforgettable moments. Actress Marie Colin, who plays a key role, initially shows reluctance towards her partner Alice Belaïdi. But the latter, armed with disarming patience, manages to break the ice through improvised games and shared laughter. Their on-screen chemistry becomes one of the film’s pillars.
Artus, as a benevolent conductor, constantly adapts his working method. "Directing is about listening. Everyone needed to feel in their place, so that the magic could happen naturally," he explains. This attention to human relationships is palpable in every frame of the film.
A Rising Value
While Un p’tit truc en plus is a major milestone, Artus does not intend to stop there. With La Pampa on the horizon and ideas aplenty, he establishes himself as an essential figure in French cinema. Far from the caustic stand-up of his beginnings, he builds a universe where comedy meets emotion, where laughter opens doors to essential topics.
Artus embodies this generation of artists for whom commitment, boldness, and sincerity are not empty words. From his early scenes to the records of 2024, his journey is an ode to resilience and creativity. And a promise: to continue telling stories that touch the heart, with that little something extra that makes all the difference.
