Gilles Béhat

Biography

Gilles Béhat, born Gilles Marc Béhat on September 3, 1949, in Lille, France, is a multi-talented individual known for his work as a filmmaker and actor. Despite the confusion surrounding the spelling of his last name, stemming from an early credit error in his acting career, Béhat has made a name for himself in the entertainment industry.

During his teenage years, Béhat showcased his musical skills by playing the guitar in a rock band before pursuing his passion for acting. He honed his craft at the Conservatoire d'Art Dramatique, where he delved into the world of performing arts and developed his acting skills.

Béhat kickstarted his acting journey by landing roles in various television series and films, portraying memorable characters such as Pierre Vignard in "L'Hercule sur la place" and Charles IV le Bel in "Les Rois maudits" (1972). His presence on screen was notable, and he quickly transitioned into the world of cinema, appearing in films like "Elle court, elle court la banlieue" (1970) and "Beau Masque" (1975).

Transitioning behind the camera, Béhat ventured into directing, where he crafted a series of compelling feature films, particularly focusing on detective and action genres. His breakthrough came with the release of the 1984 gangster film "Rue barbare," which garnered critical acclaim for its gritty portrayal of the criminal underworld.

Despite facing commercial challenges with subsequent projects like "Dancing Machine," starring Alain Delon, Béhat persevered and shifted his focus to television in the 1990s. He directed series for popular networks such as TF1, France 2, and Canal+, showcasing his versatility and adaptability as a filmmaker.

In 2008, Béhat made a triumphant return to the big screen with "Diamant 13," a noir film featuring an ensemble cast including Gérard Depardieu, Olivier Marchal, and Asia Argento. The movie marked a significant milestone in his career, reaffirming his prowess as a director capable of delivering compelling narratives on the silver screen.

Throughout his illustrious career, Gilles Béhat has left an indelible mark on the French entertainment industry, showcasing his talents both in front of and behind the camera. With a diverse body of work spanning various genres and mediums, he continues to captivate audiences with his unique storytelling and artistic vision.