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Army of Shadows

An account of underground resistance fighters in Nazi-occupied France.

8.1

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TAKES

“Army of Shadows” (original title: “L’Armée des ombres”) is a 1969 French film directed by Jean-Pierre Melville, set during World War II. It follows a group of members of the French Resistance as they navigate the dangers of fighting against Nazi occupation. The film centers on Philippe Gerbier, a Resistance leader, who is captured by the Gestapo but manages to escape. He reunites with fellow fighters, including Luc Jardie, who operates within the Resistance’s complex and often perilous network. The film is noted for its realistic portrayal of the complexities of resistance movements, moving away from romanticized depictions of heroism to depict the gritty reality of underground warfare.

“Army of Shadows” is considered a classic of French cinema and a poignant commentary on the struggle against tyranny, making it a compelling watch for those interested in history and war films.

Director: Jean-Pierre Melville
Writers: Joseph Kessel • Jean-Pierre Melville
Stars: Lino Ventura • Paul Meurisse • Jean-Pierre Cassel
2hr 25m
Not Rated
1969
History
Resistance
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Madison Takes

Overall, “Army of Shadows” offers a compelling exploration of resistance and sacrifice. Madison Media Fund recommends “Army of Shadows” for several reasons:

  1. Themes of Duty and Sacrifice: The film emphasizes the importance of duty, loyalty, and sacrifice in the face of tyranny, values that align with conservative principles of patriotism and commitment to one’s country.
  2. Realistic Portrayal of Resistance: It offers a nuanced view of the complexities involved in resisting oppression, highlighting the moral dilemmas and sacrifices that come with standing up for one’s beliefs.
  3. Historical Context: The film provides a historical perspective on the fight against totalitarianism, showcasing the resilience of those who stood against Nazi occupation, which can resonate with patriotic views on the importance of defending freedom.

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