“Le Franc-tireur” (The Sniper), directed by Jean-Max Causse and Roger Taverne in 1972 is a French film which distinctly depicts the subtle yet powerful art of storytelling around the backdrop of French resistance during the second world war. This relatively obscure yet moving drama shows a deep ideological commitment to loyalty, independence and the ethics of warfare and its impact on an individual.
Synopsis
The movie centers around the character of a lone Zen shōta known as “the sniper” and his actions in the occupied France which is violent, treacherous and morally ambiguous. This lone player disregards both the German oppressors as well as the organized structures of the Resistance and goes through the war in his own way. His actions spite both friends and foes and introduces the psychological and emotional perspective of a person resisting in such fractured society.
There are several issues in the movie that deal with the spectator’s disjunction, seeking out a variety of consequences of socially-applied warfare. It provides subtle answers to questions of honor, betrayal and survival always in contact: how to be the people who carry personal moral principles but still live within the framework of society’s collective ideals.
Cultural and Social Importance
Among French Resistance films, “Le Franc-tireur” may be regarded as meditative. It is set apart because it deals with the lone-wolf figure, whereas most parts of such films employ the glory of the collective cause. In the 70s European cinema, featuring fatalism in many of its works, there was a shift of focus on the battle of moral stands during conflicts and the legacy of unquestioned patriotism.
Aesthetic Style
The film has an unflinching realism and a rather understated style, relying on the bleak landscapes and less than robust photography to reveal the solitude of the central character. The decision of the directors to tell the personal fight of one character as opposed to the shoot the impressive view of many battles is very effective in alleviating the horrors of wars.
Reception
Le Franc-tireur is relatively less known and publicised as other French Resistance films. But it has no doubt won critical approval for its dark plots and interesting storyline. Star critics commend the film for its original angle and the quiet but effective playing of actors, especially the main one.
Additional Movies with the Same Theme
In case you find interest in viewing ‘Le Franc-tireur’, here are some other films worth the attention:
- “Army of Shadows” (1969), directed by Jean-Pierre Melville – A well-crafted depiction of the French resistance that is laced in tension and moral ambiguity.
- “The Train” (1964) by John Frankenheimer – A gripping story of individual defiance in War that revolves around destruction and determination.
- “Lacombe, Lucien” (1974) by Louis Malle – An interesting way to portray a young man’s perspective on questions of engagement and disobedience, set in Occupied France.
- “The Ascent” (1977) by Larisa Shepitko – A Soviet movie that reflects on trust, treachery and selflessness in times of war.