'Elle' trivia and fun facts

First foreign film

Paul Verhoeven's first film in French.

French

Before production began, Paul Verhoeven went to a language institute to learn French, in order to be able to communicate with the cast and crew.

Candidate actresses

Marion Cotillard, Nicole Kidman, Diane Lane, Carice van Houten and Sharon Stone were considered for the female lead, but Paul Verhoeven had known Isabelle Huppert for some time and always wanted to work with her.

Director's comeback

Paul Verhoeven's first feature film in ten years since El libro negro (2006).

Success

Due to its success, in its second week in Spain the number of cinemas was increased from 50 to 73.

Presentation at festival

Selected for the 69th Cannes film festival.

Inspiration

Based on the novel 'Oh...' by Philippe Djian.