Pascal Plisson


Pascal Plisson is a French screenwriter, documentary filmmaker, and director, known for his films exploring education, opportunity, and the human spirit.

Biography

Pascal Plisson was born in 1959 in Paris, France. A self-taught filmmaker, he left formal schooling at the age of 15 and began traveling across the Americas. He began his career in 1984, creating television documentaries and sports reports, particularly on polo, for international networks including National Geographic and BBC.
He later focused on human-centered stories with a global outlook. His breakout documentary Sur le chemin de l'école was released in 2013 and won the César Award for Best Documentary Film at the 39th César Awards.

Themes and style

Plisson is known for exploring global inequality through the lens of education, youth, perseverance, and cultural identity. His works often blend emotional narratives with observational documentary techniques.

Filmography

YearTitleRoleNotes
2003Masai, les guerriers de la pluieDirector, WriterFictional film based on Maasai oral legends
2005Les Mystères de ClippertonDirectorDocumentary on the Clipperton Island expedition
2009J’ai vu changer la Terre DirectorTV documentary series
2013Sur le chemin de l'école Director, WriterWon César Award for Best Documentary
2015Le Grand Jour Director, WriterFollows children preparing for life-changing events
2020GogoDirector, WriterStory of the oldest student in Kenya pursuing education at age 94
2023We Have a DreamDirector, WriterFeatures children with disabilities around the world pursuing extraordinary goals

Awards and recognition

César Award for Best Documentary Film – *On the Way to School* Audience AwardMill Valley Film Festival Prix Henri-Langlois for Best DocumentaryINIS Prize – Montreal Children's Film Festival