The March of Time: The Fighting French

About This Movie

The March of Time: The Fighting French is a fascinating documentary that dives deep into the French resistance during World War II. It has this gritty tone that really captures the essence of defiance against Vichy France. The pacing is brisk, often jumping between various acts of bravery, whether it’s in the streets of Paris or the jungles of Equatorial Africa. You see the struggles of General de Gaulle’s government-in-exile alongside the underground efforts of the resistance. The practical effects and real-life footage lend an authenticity that’s hard to replicate. There's a rawness to the performances that speaks volumes about the time. It feels like a time capsule, showing both the courage and the despair faced by those fighting for freedom.

This film is part of the March of Time series, which is known for its unique documentary style blending newsreel footage with narrative storytelling. Finding a good copy can be a bit challenging, as it doesn’t pop up often in collector circles. The historical significance and the unique perspective on the French resistance make it a worthwhile piece for those interested in wartime documentaries and the broader context of WWII.