Written by: Lisa Chang

Jos Giovanni: The Controversial French Writer and Filmmaker

Jos Giovanni, born Joseph Damiani, was a French writer and filmmaker of Corsican origin, known for his gritty and often controversial works that drew inspiration from his own tumultuous life experiences. His writings and films often celebrated the underworld, while his personal life was marred by collaborationism and a criminal past.

Early Life and Education

Born on June 22, 1923, in Paris, France, Giovanni was of Corsican descent. His father, a professional gambler, owned a hotel in the French Alps in Chamonix, where Giovanni developed a passion for mountain climbing. He received a good education, studying at the Collège Stanislas de Paris and the Lycée Janson de Sailly.

The Dark Past: Collaborationism and Criminal Activities

Giovanni's life took a tumultuous turn during World War II. From April to September 1943, he was a member of Jeunesse et Montagne, a Vichy Government youth movement. Later, he joined the fascist French Popular Party (PPF) and became affiliated with the German Schutzkorps SK, an organization that hunted down those evading compulsory work service. His involvement with the underworld continued, with connections to the Gestapo and the Vichy paramilitary Milice.

Literary and Cinematic Career

Giovanni's writing career began in the 1950s, with novels that often drew from his own experiences. His works frequently explored themes of masculine friendships and the individual's struggle against the world. His films, such as Classe tous risques (1960), were gritty and realistic, often inspired by real-life gangsters.

Notable Works

• Classe tous risques (1960) - a film that launched Giovanni's career and earned him critical acclaim
• Le Deuxième Souffle (1966) - a novel that solidified his reputation as a writer
• Histoire de fou (1973) - a semi-autobiographical novel that explored his own tumultuous life

Controversies and Legacy

Giovanni's past as a collaborationist and criminal has been the subject of criticism and controversy. Despite this, his works continue to be celebrated for their gritty realism and exploration of the human condition. In 1986, he became a naturalized Swiss citizen and lived in Lausanne until his death on April 24, 2004.

Quotes and Philosophy

Giovanni's writings and films often reflected his philosophy of celebrating individual freedom and the power of human relationships. As he once said, "The only true freedom is the freedom to choose one's own destiny."

Impact on Modern Society

Giovanni's works have had a significant impact on modern French literature and cinema. His influence can be seen in the works of many French New Wave directors, and his novels continue to be widely read and studied.

Personal Life and Relationships

Giovanni's personal life was marked by turmoil and controversy. Despite this, he formed relationships with many notable figures, including writers and artists. His uncle, Ange Paul Santolini, played a significant role in introducing him to the underworld of Paris.