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The Twelve Tasks of Asterix (1976)

A Gaulish Classic

The 12 Tasks of Asterix film 1976 - French poster

The Twelve Tasks of Asterix (Les Douze travaux d’Astérix) is a 1976 English/French animated feature film and the third in the Asterix animated franchise. Unlike its predecessors, this film is based on an original screenplay written by Asterix creators René Goscinny and Albert Uderzo. The duo also co-directed the film, alongside Pierre Watrin and Henri Gruel, ensuring their vision translated seamlessly onto the screen. The film was produced at their own Studios Idéfix, which also created one Lucky Luke feature film. Notably, this is the only Asterix animated film to utilize xerography for animation, giving it a unique visual style.

Upon its release, the film received mixed reviews, with some critics finding its cartoony tone and frequent fourth-wall-breaking departures from the comic series’ conventions. Over time, however, The Twelve Tasks of Asterix has gained recognition as one of the best Asterix films, achieving cult classic status. It remained the only Asterix film based on an original screenplay until 2018’s Asterix: The Secret of the Magic Potion.

The film was later adapted into several formats, including a rare comic book illustrated by Marcel Uderzo, a text storybook, and a series of twelve storybooks for young readers, each focused on one of the tasks.

Plot Summary

The Roman Senate, frustrated by repeated defeats by the Gaulish village, speculates that the villagers might be gods. Julius Caesar, dismissing the idea, proposes a challenge to test their abilities. He tasks Asterix and Obelix with completing twelve Herculean tasks, claiming that failure will mean surrender to Rome, while success will give the Gauls dominion over the Roman Empire.

The tasks range from physical challenges like defeating Olympic champions and Persian warriors to intellectual ones like solving riddles and navigating a maddening bureaucratic building. Asterix and Obelix overcome each challenge with wit, strength, and a touch of humor. They even turn the Circus Maximus into a literal circus during their final task. Victorious, the Gauls celebrate, with Asterix cheekily acknowledging that their triumphs are possible because “this is a cartoon.”

Storybooks of the movie

Interesting Facts

  • A Rare Comic Adaptation: Marcel Uderzo, Albert’s brother, adapted the film into a comic book titled Asterix Conquers Rome, using the film’s English dialogue. This rare publication remains a collector’s item.
  • Bureaucracy Satire: The “Place that Sends You Mad” scene is a biting parody of modern bureaucracy and has gained cult status, especially in countries like France and Germany.
  • Cameos and References: The film features cameos by Oumpah-pah, another Goscinny and Uderzo creation, and a goddess resembling Brigitte Bardot as Venus.
  • Fourth Wall Breaks: The film frequently breaks the fourth wall, such as when Asterix comments on the cartoonish nature of their adventures.
  • Cult Legacy: The absurd humor, memorable scenes, and unique plot have cemented this film’s reputation as a fan favorite.

Production Details

  • Directed by: René Goscinny, Albert Uderzo, Pierre Watrin, Henri Gruel
  • Screenplay by: Pierre Tchernia, René Goscinny, Albert Uderzo
  • Produced by: Georges Dargaud, René Goscinny, Albert Uderzo
  • Starring: Roger Carel, Jacques Morel, Jean Martinelli
  • Narrated by: Pierre Tchernia
  • Music by: Gérard Calvi
  • Production Companies: Dargaud Films, Les Productions René Goscinny, Studios Idéfix, Halas and Batchelor Cartoon Films
  • Release Dates: March 12, 1976 (Austria), October 20, 1976 (France), December 19, 1976 (United Kingdom)
  • Running Time: 82 minutes
  • Language: French
  • Box Office: 9.4 million tickets sold

Bonus Features and Legacy

The film’s DVD release by Citel Vidéo includes bonus content such as character profiles, a documentary on René Goscinny, and cinematic posters. It also features subtitles and soundtracks in multiple languages, making it accessible to an international audience.

Today, The Twelve Tasks of Asterix is celebrated for its originality, humor, and inventive storytelling, standing as a testament to the genius of Goscinny and Uderzo. It remains a must-watch for Asterix fans and animation enthusiasts alike.