by Nigel Hicks
Worth: $18.00
FilmInk rates movies out of $20 — the score indicates the amount we believe a ticket to the movie to be worth
Cast:
Simon Abkarian, Simon Russell Beale, Florian Lesieur, Campbell Scott
Intro:
Simon Abkarian is superb as Charles De Gaulle
Simon Abkarian is superb as Charles De Gaulle in Antonin Baudry’s epic De Gaulle: Resistance. This first film (Liberte/The Sovereign Edge will be released in November) focuses on De Gaulle during the years of 1940-45, when his refusal to submit to the German invasion of France, led to an uprising. While the action scenes are few, the performances, particularly from Abkarian, do not let the intensity drop at any stage.
Starting with the submission of France to Germany, De Gaulle insists on freedom. At first, his ideas are ignored and ridiculed publicly, but he is steadfast and keeps to his vision. When his second-in-command suggests that they flee to Canada, the look of indignation on his face says it all. De Gaulle refuses to yield and starts a campaign from Africa, which leads to an escalating momentum.
There are many sides to De Gaulle as shown in this film. His tactical brilliance sets him apart, as we see him outwitting a German tank, and later with the idea of starting the resistance in central Africa. He faces humiliation and ridicule from his colleagues but has such nationalistic pride (and determination) that he overcomes all such adversity. His insistence on French dignity, such as full military uniform when either meeting Churchill, or wading through jungles in Africa, speak louder than words. He is unperturbed by nearby explosions, while those around dive for cover.
Simon Abkarian’s performance allows the audience to lose themselves in the character. Simon Russell Beale is also excellent as Winston Churchill, with the iconic English PM playing a critical role in supporting De Gaulle. Director Baudry puts significant screentime on Churchill and Beale nails the pragmatic yet savvy tactician.
There is a subplot about French students being inspired by De Gaulle to resist, led by Fernand (Florian Lesieur). This is important for context for the film, as it shows the effect De Gaulle had on French people, particularly the youth.
