Monday 7 December 2009

The Sorrow and the Pity / Le Chagrin et la Pitié (1969 Marcel Ophüls)

(The son of Max.) French experience of World War Two told in fascinating detail by cross-section of society, including farmer/resistance who wouldn't take revenge on traitor; endemic racism and anti-Britishness; French pilots who dangerously hedge-bombed close to target accurately; normal life in Paris; horrendous trials both before and after Liberation. The truly unpleasant stories are in the last of its four hours. Ophüls a quietly determined interviewer.

Anthony Eden surprising with fluent French and urbane non-judgmental attitude. Quietly gathers force through build-up of detail.

Watched on consecutive Sundays.

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