La Maison de la Radio

It’s early morning, and journalists, presenters, and technicians are streaming into the Maison de la Radio. This iconic building in the heart of Paris, overlooking the Seine and the Eiffel Tower, is home to Radio France, the broadcasting organization that runs France’s public radio stations.

We follow the unfolding of 24 hours of radio broadcasting, distilled into slightly less than 100 minutes by Nicolas Philibert (Être et avoir, Sur l’Adamant) from footage shot over the course of six months in every corner of the radio building—from the reception area to the library—and beyond. A succession of brief impressions builds a picture of what goes on behind the scenes at the radio stations.

An aspiring presenter receives feedback on his submission, editorial staff scour the internet for newsworthy stories, producers brainstorm ideas, and technicians ensure that the sound quality is perfect. The work is intense and tireless in the editorial offices and recording studios—but there is laughter in the corridors as well. La Maison de la Radio paints a compelling portrait of a medium that derives its popularity from the very absence of images.