'De Gaulle: Résistance' War Epic Hits Screens

Antonin Baudry's "De Gaulle: Résistance" is an expansive historical epic focusing on France's pivotal World War II leader, General Charles de Gaulle. The film, released in France and anticipated internationally, also delves into the story of Fernand Bonnier de La Chapelle, a young monarchist and resistance fighter. Bonnier de La Chapelle assassinated Vichy Admiral François Darlan in Algiers before his own execution, events Baudry intricately braids into the narrative.

The movie explores the dual perspectives of De Gaulle and Bonnier de La Chapelle, showcasing their contrasting yet aligned ideals. Simon Abkarian portrays De Gaulle with a mix of firmness and concealed reluctance, while Florian Lesieur embodies Bonnier de La Chapelle's agile idealism. The film juxtaposes these figures, with Bonnier de La Chapelle's segments evoking a political thriller and De Gaulle's narrative highlighting his complex relationship with Winston Churchill.

"Résistance" delivers a polished wartime spectacle with impressive battle sequences and ties to contemporary issues. Despite occasional expositional dialogue, the film interrogates the past effectively, shedding light on the resurgence of fascism. Baudry, known for his thriller "The Wolf's Call," brings a similar tension to this project, which is the first installment of a two-part film series. The second part, "De Gaulle: Liberté," is scheduled for release in France soon.