French director Benoit Jacquot faces investigation over actress Judith Godrèche's rape allegations

When interviewed by reporters from "Le Monde", Jacquot denied all allegations. Furthermore, he declined further comments when the AFP agency contacted him.

Godrèche maintains that the director manipulated her, forcing her into a relationship. Godrèche lived with Jacquot for six years, during which time she starred in two of his films: "Les Mendiants" ("The Beggars") in 1988 and "La Desenchantee" ("The Disenchanted") in 1999.

This experience can be likened to stories of abducted children. I so wished Benoît had chosen to be my friend at that time, rather than controlling me. I had no desire for him physically. Very quickly, he incited revulsion within me - Godrèche wrote in an open letter published in "Le Monde".

The actress had talked about being in a relationship with an older man several years ago but did not reveal his identity. It was a segment from the 2011 documentary "Les Ruses du Désir: L'interdit", directed by Gérard Miller, which compelled her to disclose the truth finally. In this film, Jacquot spoke about their relationship and even mocked her naiveté.

It's undeniable that this was a breach, legally speaking… An adolescent like Judith, she was 15, I was 40, it's unthinkable that I should have been with her. But did I care? No, and if we're talking about her, I'd assert that it excited her very much – the director said during his interview.

Upon viewing that segment, Godrèche admits she panicked. And for the sake of her children, she decided to reveal the entire truth and file an official report.

I was so shocked, I vomited. The panic set in. There was no consent. At 14, you don't get aroused by the thought of sleeping with a 40-year-old man – the actress clarified.

Benoît Jacquot has come to be recognised as one of the most respected directors in France. He earned his renown through films such as "School of Grace", "Farewell, Queen", "Diary of a Chambermaid", and "Wings of the Dove".