A story of courage, conviction and resistance
Written and directed by Antonin Baudry, De Gaulle’s Resistance takes us back to the dramatic years of World War II and the extraordinary journey of Charles de Gaulle.
The story begins in June 1940, when France collapses and signs an armistice with Germany. While much of the country is facing defeat and uncertainty, one man refuses to accept that the fight is over.
De Gaulle, then a relatively unknown general, flees to London, determined to continue the battle. He has no army, little support and seemingly very little hope. Yet he holds onto one powerful belief — France has not surrendered, and the fight for freedom can continue.
From London, he takes the enormous gamble of trying to convince the world that France can still resist. Slowly, others begin to join his cause. Resistance fighters, rebellious students and determined soldiers in France, England and Africa become part of a growing movement.
Alongside De Gaulle’s story, the film follows three young people who find themselves caught up in the developing resistance against the German occupation. Their experiences bring a very human dimension to the story, showing the difficult choices people faced and the courage it took to stand against the occupying forces.
What I particularly enjoyed about the film is the way it brings history to life without making it feel like a history lesson. It offers an insight into events and personal stories that may not be familiar to many of us, while showing how ordinary people found the courage to become part of something much bigger than themselves.
De Gaulle’s Resistance is a French film with English subtitles, but don’t let that put you off. Before long, you barely notice the subtitles because you are drawn into the story, the characters and the atmosphere of France during the 1940s.
It is a powerful and absorbing film about courage, conviction and the determination to keep going when the odds appear completely against you.
I thoroughly recommend De Gaulle’s Resistance. Now showing in a cinema near you.
Reviewed by Jacquie Walker
