Production began in March 2012 , and lasted six months . Approximately 800 hours of footage was shot , including extensive B-roll footage , with Kechiche ultimately trimming the final cut of the film down to 179 minutes . The film generated controversy upon its premiere at the 2013 Cannes Film Festival and before its release . Much of the controversy was centered on claims of poor working conditions on set by the crew and the lead actresses , and also the film 's raw depiction of sexuality
2013 Cannes Film Festival
2013 Cannes Film Festival
Blue Is the Warmest Colour