Ricardo Trogi Recalls Filming with Céline Dion: ‘Everyone Feared René’
Filmmaker Ricardo Trogi recently shared an anecdote about his experience working on a commercial featuring international superstar Céline Dion. This story was revealed during an appearance on the show “Ça finit bien la semaine,” aired on January 23. Trogi’s experience highlights the complexities involved in collaborating with someone of Dion’s stature.
Behind the Scenes of the Céline Dion Commercial
Trogi recalled filming for St-Hubert, a major Canadian food brand. While many might expect working with a global icon like Céline Dion to be intimidating, Trogi stated that the real pressure stemmed not from Dion herself but from the extensive logistics surrounding her visit to the set.
Logistical Challenges
The preparation for the shoot was impressive. Trogi described a meticulous planning process that accounted for every minute detail. Even though the actual filming lasted about two hours, the organization required was akin to that of a presidential visit. Key aspects of this logistical effort included:
- Presence of numerous black vehicles with tinted windows
- Heightened security measures
- A substantial team of assistants
- A strict hierarchical structure
Trogi humorously noted that “everyone feared René,” a reference to Dion’s late husband and manager, René Angélil, who played a crucial role in the logistical arrangements. His presence contributed to the meticulous planning observed during the shoot.
A Pleasant Collaboration
Once filming commenced, Trogi found the environment to be much more relaxed. Both Céline Dion and René Angélil were friendly, professional, and approachable. Trogi emphasized that the real stress was related to the logistics rather than the artistic collaboration itself. This experience showcases that behind the glamour of working with an international star lies a complex framework of coordination and organization.
This insight into filming with Céline Dion illustrates the significant effort required to accommodate a celebrity of her caliber. It’s a reminder that the work behind the camera can be just as important as what is visible on screen.
