For cinephiles and film data enthusiasts, AlloCiné holds a special place as a comprehensive resource for all things cinema. But beyond its reviews and showtimes, the site itself has a history. Recently, a bit of that history resurfaced: the very first film entry ever created on the platform. It’s a detail that speaks to the early days of online film databases and the choices made in building what would become a cornerstone of French film culture.
The film that holds the distinction of being AlloCiné’s inaugural entry is Bob Rafelson’s 1981 remake of The Postman Always Rings Twice. Starring Jack Nicholson, Jessica Lange, and John Colicos, the neo-noir thriller wasn’t a new release when it was added to the database. Instead, AlloCiné’s founders prioritized building a robust archive of past films alongside current releases. This decision, made in 1993, reflects a commitment to creating a truly comprehensive cinematic record.
The Genesis of a Database
Launched in 1993, AlloCiné initially served a practical purpose: providing French cinemas with film listings. However, the vision extended beyond simply cataloging current releases. Recognizing the importance of film history, the team began populating the database with films from the past, laying the groundwork for the extensive archive It’s today. As noted in a recent article on the site, the process of adding television series came later, demonstrating a phased approach to building the platform’s content.
The choice of The Postman Always Rings Twice as the inaugural film entry remains somewhat of a mystery. The reasons behind this specific selection, lost to time after 33 years, are open to speculation. Was it a personal favorite of someone on the team? Did the casting or director hold particular appeal? The answer, if it exists, remains unknown.
A Story of Adaptation
Rafelson’s 1981 version of The Postman Always Rings Twice is itself an adaptation. The story originates from James M. Cain’s 1934 novel, which first reached the screen in 1946 with Tay Garnett’s classic film noir starring Lana Turner and John Garfield. This earlier adaptation is widely considered a landmark of the genre, and remains highly regarded by film historians.
Interestingly, Cain’s novel also saw an earlier French adaptation in 1939, titled Le Dernier Tournant, directed by Pierre Chenal. This version featured Fernand Gravey, Corinne Luchaire, and Michel Simon in the leading roles, demonstrating the story’s enduring appeal across cultures and decades.
AlloCiné Today
Today, AlloCiné continues to be a vital resource for film and television enthusiasts in France, offering a wealth of content including news, interviews, streaming recommendations, and in-depth filmographies. The platform boasts over 40 new articles published daily, catering to a diverse audience of movie and series lovers. Subscribing to AlloCiné on Google Discover ensures a constant stream of cinematic insights and discoveries.
As AlloCiné continues to evolve, its origins as a meticulously curated database remain central to its identity. The selection of The Postman Always Rings Twice as its first film entry, while perhaps arbitrary, represents a foundational moment in the history of online film information – a testament to the enduring power of cinema and the dedication of those who seek to preserve and celebrate it.
Looking ahead, AlloCiné will continue to expand its coverage of both new releases and classic films, solidifying its position as a leading voice in French film culture. Users can expect ongoing updates and features designed to enhance their viewing experience and deepen their appreciation for the art of filmmaking.
What are your thoughts on this little piece of AlloCiné history? Share your favorite films and memories in the comments below!
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