Question 1

Why was 'Is Paris Burning?' filmed in black and white?

Accepted Answer

French authorities refused to allow red and black Nazi flags to fly in Paris for filming. They only permitted black and gray flags, which was a main reason for using black and white cinematography.

Question 2

What unusual fuel source is shown on French civilian vehicles in the film?

Accepted Answer

Several French civilian vehicles are accurately shown with cylindrical tanks on their roofs containing compressed natural gas. During WWII, over 60,000 French vehicles were converted to natural and wood gas fuel.

Question 3

Where was 'Is Paris Burning?' entirely filmed?

Accepted Answer

The film was completely shot in Paris and its suburbs (Issy-les-Moulineaux and Satory), using 180 filming locations within the city and surrounding areas.

Question 4

What happened when a French postman saw extras dressed as German soldiers during filming?

Accepted Answer

A French postman fell off his bicycle on the Champs-Élysées when he saw extras dressed as German soldiers during a lunch break. He ran out screaming, "They're back! They're back!"

Question 5

What conflict occurred between Orson Welles and director René Clément during production?

Accepted Answer

Orson Welles refused to directly talk with director René Clément, although Welles spoke fluent French. He used Yves Boisset as a translator, reportedly because Welles was jealous Clément had been given a mammoth-budget movie to direct.

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Is Paris Burning?

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