A Biopic for Our Times: “De Gaulle: Résistance” and the Resurgence of Fascism

Antonin Baudry’s sprawling epic “De Gaulle: Résistance” is a cinematic behemoth that tackles one of history’s most complex figures in grandiose style. The film’s sheer scale and ambition are undeniable, but beneath its flashy surface lies a more nuanced exploration of the past – and its continued relevance to our present.

Baudry’s commitment to storytelling is admirable, even if it doesn’t always succeed. By merging the biopic of Charles de Gaulle with that of Fernand Bonnier de La Chapelle, a young resistance fighter who assassinated Vichy French Admiral François Darlan in Algiers, Baudry creates a dual-narrative film that sometimes feels like two distinct movies stitched together. This structural choice is both bold and questionable, but it allows for fascinating juxtapositions between the idealism of Bonnier de La Chapelle and the more pragmatic De Gaulle.

The performances, particularly those of Simon Abkarian as De Gaulle and Florian Lesieur as Bonnier de La Chapelle, bring depth and nuance to their respective characters. Abkarian’s portrayal of De Gaulle is especially noteworthy, capturing the leader’s firm resolve and underlying doubts with precision.

Baudry’s attention to historical detail is impressive, particularly in its portrayal of France’s relationship with its past – particularly in regards to Vichy’s collaboration with Nazi Germany. The film highlights the complexities of this period, tempering its grandiose vision with a keen awareness of the ongoing struggles against fascism and nationalism that continue to plague our world.

The film’s ability to balance tone is striking, veering effortlessly from rousing wartime sequences to quieter moments of introspection. As we navigate the increasingly treacherous landscape of global politics, “De Gaulle: Résistance” serves as a timely reminder of the enduring power of patriotism – in all its forms. By shining a light on these pivotal historical moments, the film encourages us to re-examine our own values and ideals in the face of rising extremism.

A Lesson from History

Baudry’s biopic arrives at a moment when many countries are grappling with resurgent nationalist and far-right movements. It’s tempting to see “De Gaulle: Résistance” as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked ambition, but it’s more than that – it’s an exploration of the human condition in the face of overwhelming adversity.

The film’s portrayal of De Gaulle’s tumultuous relationship with Winston Churchill is particularly nuanced. Their interactions are often fraught with tension, yet also marked by moments of camaraderie and shared purpose. This depiction serves as a reminder that even in times of war and upheaval, human relationships can provide a glimmer of hope.

A War Movie for Our Times

One of the most striking aspects of “De Gaulle: Résistance” is its ability to balance action and introspection. The film’s battle sequences are intense and visceral, yet they’re also bookended by quieter moments of character development. This blend of tone creates a cinematic experience that feels both grounded in history and universally relatable.

Baudry’s vision for the film is not without its flaws – there are moments where exposition-heavy dialogue feels forced or unnecessary. However, these minor quibbles don’t detract from the overall impact of “De Gaulle: Résistance”. Instead, they serve as a reminder that even in the most epic of stories, there’s always room for improvement.

The International Appeal of a Biopic

The film’s success will likely be measured by its international box office performance. Will audiences outside of France respond to Baudry’s sprawling epic? Or will it remain a niche interest, appealing only to those with a deep understanding of French history?

As we await the release of “De Gaulle: Liberté”, the second installment in Baudry’s two-part project, one thing is clear – our world could use some reminders about the true meaning of patriotism. In an era marked by division and upheaval, “De Gaulle: Résistance” serves as a timely reminder that even the most complex historical figures can inspire us to greatness.

As we watch De Gaulle’s famous June 18 appeal unfold on screen, it’s hard not to be moved by the leader’s unwavering conviction. Yet, in an era marked by rising nationalism and xenophobia, Baudry’s biopic also serves as a stark reminder that our world is still grappling with the same fundamental questions of identity, loyalty, and purpose.

The cinematic landscape may have changed since the days of vintage Hollywood blockbusters, but “De Gaulle: Résistance” reminds us that the human experience remains timeless – and utterly relatable. As we navigate the complexities of our own time, Baudry’s epic biopic stands as a testament to the enduring power of storytelling, and the importance of remembering – and learning from – our shared past.