When French cinema almost launched Harrison Ford: The secret story with Jacques Demy

Long before entering a galaxy far, far away and cracking the whip as Indiana Jones, Harrison Ford almost had his career launched by a giant of French cinema. It was a bond and a deep trust that the Hollywood star would never forget.

Difficult beginnings in Hollywood

In the mid-1960s, a young Harrison Ford moved to Los Angeles to pursue acting. He joined Columbia Pictures' New Talent program and signed a seven-year contract. Unfortunately, this era mostly meant meager pay and a long string of uncredited minor roles. It was during this pivotal time that his path crossed with a renowned French filmmaker who had just arrived in California following massive international success.

Meeting Jacques Demy

While gathering at a Columbia producer's home, the French Nouvelle Vague director crossed paths with Ford through his partner Agnès Varda. Captivated by his presence, the filmmaker was preparing his very first English-language feature film, Model Shop. He immediately decided to cast the struggling newcomer in the lead role of the romantic drama.

The studio veto

Sadly, studio executives strongly opposed Demy's choice, arguing that the actor was far too inexperienced to shoulder such a project. Despite the director's strong backing, Gary Lockwood was ultimately hired while Demy was scouting locations. Though the collaboration never happened, that early vote of confidence remained an unforgettable milestone for the future icon.