MPC's Soret and Lambertz on Opening in Paris

As VFX company MPC open a Paris office, London-based global creative director of colour grading, Jean-Clément Soret [pictured left], and creative director Franck Lambertz [pictured right] discuss the reasons behind launching the studio and why they're excited to be setting up shop across the Channel

Why was now the right time to open a Paris office?

Jean-Clément Soret: The industry in Paris is known for stunning high-end commercials, and we have long-standing relationships with a number of directors, DP’s and agency creatives. MPC has been involved in some incredible award-winning work with French agencies over the last year or so, Lacoste ‘The Big Leap’ with BETC Paris and Seb Edwards and of course Assassin’s Creed with Sid Lee Paris and Adam Berg which picked up the Gold Lion at Cannes for VFX. Franck and I both jumped at the opportunity to return, and it’s perfect for me to work between both London and Paris.

Franck Lambertz: For me, it was perfect timing. After all these years working in many different countries, including helping launch both MPC LA and MPC Amsterdam, it felt like the right time to bring back my experience to the French creative industry. 

You have a longstanding working relationship; how would you describe its dynamic?

FL: We have indeed worked together many times over the years. Working with JC is just incredible; he manages to create a unique climate to the film and he constantly provides me with beautiful shots. At MPC, we always have a close relationship between the colourist and the VFX supervisor. For us, it's important that each department is aware and has an eye over the complete process. We are all working together to build the most spectacular image possible.

JC: I love working with Franck, his attention to detail and his understanding of how VFX and colour grading work in parallel is amazing.

How will this boutique studio differ from MPC's other offices?

JC: The studio is set up in a similar way to our Amsterdam studio and is supported by the network and infrastructure of the London hub, as well as the Technicolor/MPC global pipeline. We can easily share shots and HD pictures in real time using our proprietary network and technology. Our artists will be located in Paris, but the majority of the infrastructure will stay in London. This has the benefit of giving us total flexibility and offering the benefits of a small boutique, but with the power of a global network.

What services will the studio provide?

FL: MPC Paris will provide the same services as the London studio- 3D, 2D compositing, motion design, concept work, animation and of course colour grading. If there is a service required that needs the support of London or the global studios, or to draw on the pool of talent there, we can very easily and quickly make that happen.

How do you rate the creative output from the French advertising industry?

FL: It's the country that formed me, and where I developed my early career. Today, the work done in Paris has an incredible quality and creativity. The films for Cartier, Evian and some car brands are just beautiful. We are aware that, like everywhere, our move is challenging, but we are ready to fit and offer our expertise to the French production industry.

JC: Last year I was invited by the Club Des Directeurs Artistiques to be on the jury, after seeing some incredible work I was convinced MPC in Paris was long overdue.

Which local French directors and agencies are you most excited about working with?

FL: Paris is the nest of many talented directors, production companies and agencies. It is difficult to name some of them without being too limited. The quality of the work is always incredible, and much of the luxury beauty work is consistently breathtaking.  

JC: There are many friends in the industry who I have seen too rarely these past few years, I would love to have the privilege to be involved with their work more regularly.

As a native Parisian, Franck, what's the most exciting aspect of returning to work there?

FL: It's a very interesting question, I left France more than 10 years ago, and worked in so many different countries, I’m rediscovering my own country a bit like it's a new one. It's very interesting, France has a lot of quality and charm that when you live there you tend to forget and take for granted. I’m hoping to bring with me the experience I accumulated in Montreal, London, LA and Amsterdam.