Get ready for a scary fortnight in French politics: a Le Pen presidency really is possible | John Lichfield

The race for the Elysee could end up as a horror story for anyone who cares about the wellbeing of France or Europe

The French election is straying from the script. It was meant to be a predictable remake. It has turned into a thriller. It could end up as a horror story.

A month ago, Emmanuel Macron seemed certain to be the first French president to win a second term in 20 years. After Russia invaded Ukraine, his poll ratings soared. He built a 12-point lead in a probable second-round match-up with the far-right candidate Marine Le Pen, and a 15-point lead over all other candidates in the first round.