Asterix in Britain is a beloved comic book written by René Goscinny and illustrated by Albert Uderzo. It was first published in 1966 and has since become one of the most popular entries in the Asterix series. The comic tells the story of Asterix and Obelix as they travel to Roman-occupied Britain to help their friend Anticlimax. The comic’s success led to a movie adaptation in 1986, directed by Pino Van Lamsweerde. In this article, we will explore both the comic summary of Asterix in Britain and its movie adaptation, diving into the world of Gauls, Romans, and British humor.
Comic summary of Asterix in Britain
In Asterix in Britain, the Gauls receive a message from their British friend Anticlimax, who is in trouble. Asterix and Obelix set sail to help their friend and find themselves in Roman-occupied Britain. The Britons are under the thumb of the Roman Empire, but a small village led by Anticlimax’s father, Cassivellaunus, still resists. Asterix and Obelix join forces with the Britons to fight against the Romans and bring back freedom to the land.
The comic is filled with hilarious encounters, clever wordplay, and the usual shenanigans of Asterix and Obelix. They encounter a variety of British stereotypes, such as tea-drinking, eccentric aristocrats, and even a gluttonous food critic. The comic is a celebration of British culture with a healthy dose of satire, making it a fan favorite in the Asterix series.
Movie summary of Asterix in Britain
The movie adaptation of Asterix in Britain stays true to the spirit of the original comic. It brings the characters to life on the big screen with colorful animation and lively voice acting. The movie follows the same basic storyline as the comic, with Asterix and Obelix traveling to Britain to help their friend Anticlimax.
The animation brings the British setting to life, showcasing iconic landmarks like Stonehenge and the White Cliffs of Dover. The movie also introduces some new characters and expands on the comedic elements found in the comic. It captures the essence of the comic’s humor and delivers it through the medium of animation.
When and where the story takes place
Both the comic and the movie are set in Roman-occupied Britain during the time of Julius Caesar’s rule. The story takes place in the 1st century BC, when the Roman Empire was expanding its territories. The Gauls, led by Asterix and Obelix, travel from their village in Gaul (present-day France) to Britain to help their friend Anticlimax.
The comic and movie depict a fictional version of Britain, filled with Roman soldiers, British resistance fighters, and quirky characters. While the story is a work of fiction, it is based on historical events and provides a humorous take on the Roman occupation of Britain.
Film locations of Asterix in Britain
The movie adaptation of Asterix in Britain takes viewers on a visual journey through the fictionalized version of Roman-occupied Britain. The animation beautifully captures iconic locations such as Stonehenge, the White Cliffs of Dover, and the Roman city of Londinium (modern-day London). These locations provide a backdrop for the adventures of Asterix, Obelix, and their British allies.
The film’s art direction and animation bring these locations to life in a vibrant and colorful way. Each scene is filled with intricate details that immerse viewers in the world of Asterix and his friends. The film’s attention to detail in recreating the British landscape adds an extra layer of authenticity and visual appeal to the story.
Who’s who in Asterix in Britain – main characters and their roles
Asterix in Britain introduces a colorful cast of characters, each with their own unique personalities and roles in the story. Here are the main characters and their roles:
- Asterix – The protagonist of the series, Asterix is a cunning and fearless Gaulish warrior. He possesses superhuman strength due to a magic potion and is known for his quick thinking and clever solutions to problems.
- Obelix – Asterix’s best friend, Obelix is a lovable and slightly dim-witted character. He is incredibly strong and has a never-ending appetite for wild boar. Obelix’s strength often comes in handy during battles with the Romans.
- Anticlimax – A British friend of Asterix and Obelix, Anticlimax is in trouble and sends a message asking for their help. He is a brave and determined character who leads the resistance against the Romans in Britain.
- Cassivellaunus – Anticlimax’s father and the leader of the British resistance, Cassivellaunus is a wise and respected figure. He is determined to free Britain from Roman occupation and leads the fight against the Roman forces.
- Julius Caesar – The famous Roman emperor makes an appearance in Asterix in Britain. He is portrayed as a pompous and arrogant character who underestimates the Gauls and their British allies.
Notable quotes from Asterix in Britain
Asterix in Britain is filled with witty and memorable quotes that capture the essence of the comic’s humor. Here are some notable quotes from the comic:
- “By Toutatis!” – Asterix’s catchphrase, often used as an exclamation of surprise or frustration.
- “These Romans are crazy!” – Obelix’s famous line, expressing his bewilderment at the Roman way of life.
- “Ils sont fous, ces Romains!” – The French version of Obelix’s line, which translates to “These Romans are crazy!” This quote has become an iconic phrase associated with Asterix and Obelix.
- “Keep calm and drink tea!” – A humorous reference to the stereotypical British love for tea, used in the comic to poke fun at British culture.
- “We will fight them on the beaches!” – A clever play on Winston Churchill’s famous speech, used to rally the British resistance against the Romans.
These quotes showcase the clever wordplay and satire that are hallmarks of the Asterix series, making readers and viewers laugh while also appreciating the underlying wit.
Soundtrack by Vladimir Cosma – biography and other notable works
The soundtrack of Asterix in Britain was composed by Vladimir Cosma, a renowned French composer. Born in 1940 in Bucharest, Romania, Cosma moved to France in the 1960s and began his career in the music industry. He gained recognition for his collaborations with French film director Yves Robert and went on to compose music for over 150 films and TV shows.
Cosma’s music for Asterix in Britain perfectly captures the spirit of the comic and the movie. It combines playful melodies with epic orchestration, blending humor and adventure in each composition. The soundtrack enhances the storytelling and adds an extra layer of excitement to the adventures of Asterix and his friends.
Some of Cosma’s other notable works include the soundtracks for “La Boum” (1980), “Diva” (1981), and “Le Grand Blond avec une Chaussure Noire” (1972). His music has become synonymous with French cinema and continues to be celebrated by audiences worldwide.
Curiosities about Asterix in Britain
Asterix in Britain is full of interesting and amusing details that add to the charm of the comic and the movie. Here are some curiosities about Asterix in Britain:
- The comic was originally published in the French magazine Pilote before being released as a standalone album. It was one of the most successful entries in the Asterix series, selling millions of copies worldwide.
- The comic’s depiction of British culture and humor was well-received by readers in both France and Britain. It showcased the authors’ understanding of British stereotypes and their ability to poke fun at them in a lighthearted way.
- The movie adaptation of Asterix in Britain was directed by Pino Van Lamsweerde, a Dutch filmmaker known for his work in animation. The film stayed true to the comic’s humor and visual style, delighting fans of the original material.
- Asterix in Britain features appearances by historical figures such as Julius Caesar and British Queen Boudicca. These characters add a touch of historical accuracy to the fictional story and provide opportunities for comedic interactions.
- The comic and the movie highlight the cultural differences between the Gauls, the Romans, and the Britons. They explore themes of national identity, resistance against oppression, and the power of unity in the face of adversity.
These curiosities contribute to the enduring popularity of Asterix in Britain and make it a fascinating subject for fans and newcomers alike.
Tips for cosplay and dressing up as Astérix, Idéfix, and Obélix (voice)
Cosplaying as Asterix, Idéfix, or Obélix (voice) is a fun way to pay homage to the characters and immerse yourself in the world of Asterix in Britain. Here are some tips for cosplay and dressing up as these iconic characters:
- Astérix: To dress up as Astérix, you will need a white tunic with a blue trim, blue pants, and red boots. Don’t forget Astérix’s signature winged helmet and his magic potion cauldron. Carry a small toy sword and a shield with the symbol of the Gauls to complete the look.
- Idéfix: To cosplay as Idéfix, you will need a white dog costume or a white onesie with floppy ears. Use face paint to create black spots on your face, and carry a small bone or dog toy as a prop.
- Obélix (voice): To dress up as Obélix (voice), you will need a blue tunic, brown pants, and brown boots. Get a fake mustache and a wig to match Obélix’s hairstyle. Carry a foam club as a prop, symbolizing his love for hunting wild boars.
Remember to have fun with your cosplay and embrace the spirit of these beloved characters. Don’t forget to practice your best Astérix, Idéfix, or Obélix (voice) impression to complete the cosplay experience!
Biography of René Goscinny and Albert Uderzo – creators of Asterix
René Goscinny and Albert Uderzo are the creative minds behind the Asterix series. Here is a brief biography of these talented individuals:
René Goscinny was born on August 14, 1926, in Paris, France. He showed an early talent for storytelling and humor, which led him to pursue a career in writing. Goscinny co-created Asterix with Uderzo and wrote the scripts for the comic series. He was known for his wit, wordplay, and ability to create memorable characters. Goscinny passed away on November 5, 1977, but his contributions to the world of comics continue to be celebrated.
Albert Uderzo was born on April 25, 1927, in Fismes, France. He discovered his love for drawing at an early age and pursued a career in illustration. Uderzo’s dynamic artwork brought the characters of Asterix to life and contributed to the series’ success. After Goscinny’s death, Uderzo took on the role of both writer and illustrator for the Asterix series. He continued to work on the comics until his retirement in 2009.
Together, Goscinny and Uderzo created a timeless comic series that has entertained readers of all ages for decades. Their collaboration and unique talents have left a lasting legacy in the world of comic books.
5 best works by René Goscinny and Albert Uderzo
René Goscinny and Albert Uderzo have created numerous memorable works throughout their careers. Here are five of their best works:
- Asterix and the Gauls: The first Asterix comic, published in 1961, introduced readers to the world of Asterix and his indomitable Gaulish village. It set the stage for the beloved series and established the dynamic between Asterix and Obelix.
- Asterix in Spain: Published in 1969, this comic takes Asterix and Obelix on an adventure to Roman-occupied Spain. It showcases the authors’ ability to blend humor, historical references, and cultural stereotypes into a captivating story.
- Lucky Luke: Goscinny collaborated with illustrator Morris to create the iconic cowboy character Lucky Luke. The series follows Luke’s adventures in the Wild West and is known for its humor and satirical take on Western tropes.
- Iznogoud: Goscinny teamed up with illustrator Jean Tabary to create the mischievous and power-hungry character Iznogoud. The series follows Iznogoud’s attempts to become caliph instead of the caliph, with hilarious results.
- Le Petit Nicolas: Goscinny collaborated with illustrator Jean-Jacques Sempé to create the beloved children’s book series Le Petit Nicolas. The books follow the misadventures of a young boy named Nicolas and his friends, capturing the innocence and humor of childhood.
These works showcase Goscinny and Uderzo’s storytelling abilities, wit, and knack for creating memorable characters. They continue to be cherished by readers of all ages.
Similar Movies to Asterix in Britain
Asterix in Britain is a unique story that combines humor, adventure, and history. Here are 10 similar movies that fans of Asterix in Britain might enjoy:
- Monty Python and the Holy Grail
- The Princess Bride
- Robin Hood: Men in Tights
- The Three Musketeers
- Pirates of the Caribbean: Curse of the Black Pearl
- Shrek
- The Adventures of Tintin
- The Secret of the Unicorn
- The Mask of Zorro
- The Phantom
Book Club Questions for Asterix in Britain
Asterix in Britain is a great book for a book club discussion. Here are some questions to get the discussion started:
- What did you think of the characters in the book?
- How does the book compare to other Asterix books?
- What did you think of the humor in the book?
- What did you think of the historical references in the book?
- What did you think of the ending of the book?
Similar Novels to Asterix in Britain
If you enjoyed Asterix in Britain, here are 10 similar novels that you might enjoy:
- Tintin in Tibet by Herge
- Lucky Luke: The Ballad of the Daltons by Morris and Goscinny
- The Adventures of Spirou and Fantasio: The Marsupilami Thieves by Franquin and Greg
- The Adventures of Jo, Zette and Jocko: The Secret Ray by Herge
- Lucky Luke: The Stagecoach by Morris and Goscinny
- The Adventures of Tintin: The Calculus Affair by Herge
- Iznogoud by Goscinny and Tabary
- The Adventures of Spirou and Fantasio: The Valley of the Exiles by Franquin and Greg
- Asterix and the Normans by Goscinny and Uderzo
- The Adventures of Tintin: The Broken Ear by Herge
Conclusion
In conclusion, Asterix in Britain is a classic comic book that has been adapted into a movie. As a fan of both comics and movies, I appreciate the artistry involved in adapting a story from one medium to another. I hope this article has provided some insight into the comic summary of Asterix in Britain and its movie adaptation by Pino Van Lamsweerde. I also hope that the lists of similar movies, book club questions, and similar novels will provide some entertainment for fans of Asterix in Britain.
