Top 8 films shot in Luberon

Proof of this lies in the fact that this exceptional place has attracted countless filmmakers. Several iconic movies have been shot in the emblematic villages of the Luberon — Vaugines, Lourmarin, Gordes, Oppède-le-Vieux (and many more!). Authenticity, natural scenery, and charm are all part of the experience!
Discover our “Top 8 Films Shot in the Luberon” — a must-watch (or rewatch) list!

Lights, camera, action!

1 – Jean de Florette

Directed by Claude Berri – Some scenes filmed in Vaugines, Mirabeau, and Ansouis – 1986

A must-see classic based on a screenplay by Marcel Pagnol...

Ugolin, a young farmer recently back from military service, dreams of making a fortune growing carnations. His uncle, César Soubeyran, known as “Le Papet,” is ready to do whatever it takes to help his nephew succeed. But to do so, they must sabotage the plans of a city man, Jean de Florette, who has just moved into the property they both covet. Jean has settled in with his wife Aimée and their young daughter Manon, hoping to start a new life in the family home.

Motivated and full of enthusiasm, the young man has no idea about the devious plans his neighbors are hatching. Not well accepted by the villagers due to his recent arrival, he ultimately loses his life to the hard work on the land.

What stands out in this film? Nature, water, and agriculture!

The famous Saint-Barthélemy Church in Vaugines, where Manon’s wedding and the emotional revelation to Papet on the bench were filmed.

2 – Manon des Sources

Sequel to Jean de Florette, based on the novels by Marcel Pagnol, directed by Claude Berri – Some scenes filmed in Vaugines, Mirabeau, and Ansouis – 1986

A film that left a lasting impression and remains a favorite for many...

Years have passed since the death of Jean de Florette. Ugolin Soubeyran now owns the Romarins estate and thrives from cultivating carnations. His uncle César wants him to marry in order to carry on the family name. Ugolin falls for Manon, the hunchback’s daughter, now a beautiful young woman. But the truth behind her father’s tragic fate is about to come to light. Despite his uncle’s warnings, Ugolin desperately tries to win her over. In a quest for justice, Manon blocks the village spring. A young schoolteacher arrives in town and is charmed by the wild beauty — and eventually, she falls in love with him too.

What stands out in this film? Nature, water, and family!

Quiet on set, rolling!

3 – La saga "Le coeur des hommes" 1,2,3

Films by Marc Esposito – 2003, 2007, 2013

Four friends: Alex, Antoine, Jeff, and Manu. Four modern men, both strong and immature, each at a turning point in their adult lives. Their journeys are filled with ups and downs, but through it all, they share life’s joys and struggles — never letting go of their deep bond.

What stands out in these films? Friendship and family!

And it goes on...

4 – Une grande année

Film by Ridley Scott – Some scenes shot in Cucuron, Bonnieux, Lacoste, and Ménerbes – 2006

Max Skinner, a ruthless investment banker from the City of London, inherits his uncle’s estate and vineyard in Provence. He travels to the place where he once spent his childhood vacations — just as he learns he’s lost his job. Max settles into the old Provençal home with the intention of selling it for a high price, but his plans are soon challenged by a bitter truth: the vineyard only produces terrible wine.

What stands out in this film? Provençal vineyards, the sweet life of Provence, wine, and nature!

5 – L'été meurtrier

Directed by Jean Becker, based on the novel of the same name by Sébastien Japrisot – Some scenes filmed in Roussillon, Saint-Saturnin-lès-Apt, Villars, Murs, Gargas, and Lioux – 1983

Eliane, a strikingly beautiful young woman, arrives in a small southern village with nothing but a suitcase, a mini-skirt, and high heels. Pin-Pon, a dreamy mechanic and volunteer firefighter, falls under her spell — and into her trap...

What stands out in this film? The villages of Provence!

Break’s over, back to it!

6 – Gazon Maudit

Film by Josiane Balasko – Some scenes filmed in Roussillon, Apt, Murs, Bonnieux, and Avignon – 1995

Laurent, who works at a real estate agency in Avignon, is sitting at a café with Véro, his latest fling, when his colleague and best friend Antoine joins them. Laurent then leaves them at the table to make a discreet phone call at the bar — to arrange an evening rendezvous with another mistress, Ingrid. Meanwhile, his lovely wife Loli is at home in their comfortable suburban house, busy with housework and looking after their two children.

What stands out in this film? Family life, towns and villages of Provence!

Last shots...

The Roman Arch in Cavaillon, as seen in the film.

7 – Heureux qui comme Ulysse

Film by Henri Colpi – Some scenes filmed in Roussillon and Apt – 1970

Antonin has worked as a farmhand in the Arles region for forty years. He is devastated when he learns that Ulysses, an old horse who has been his companion for twenty-five years, is to be taken to the picador Petit-Jean — and to a certain death. Antonin raised the horse, cared for him, and cherished him. He cannot accept the indifference of those around him.

What stands out in this film? Heritage and nature!

8 – La Fille du puisatier

Film by Daniel Auteuil, a remake of Pagnol’s novel – Some scenes filmed in L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue – 2011

In 1939, Patricia, the daughter of well-digger Pascal Amoretti, becomes pregnant by Jacques Mazel, a young airman from a wealthy family. Called to war, Jacques is sent away, and his parents refuse to acknowledge the child. Amoretti, feeling dishonored, casts his daughter out. Jacques is reported missing in action. After the armistice, the Mazel family awkwardly tries to reconnect with Amoretti, hoping to recover a piece of their son through the child they once so heartlessly rejected.

What stands out in this film? Family and water!

And cut! That’s a wrap!