Watch War of the Buttons [La guerre des boutons]

War of the Buttons is a 2011 French-English language comedy-drama film, directed by Christophe Barratier, who is known for the internationally acclaimed film "The Chorus." The film is based on the classic 1912 novel "La guerre des boutons" by French writer Louis Pergaud. It involves a war between two groups of kids from villages in the countryside who attack each other by cutting off the buttons on their opponent's clothing.

The film is set in the remote countryside of France during the World War II era, where a group of children from the village of Longeverne and their rivals from neighboring Velrans get into altercations, which gradually escalate into a war between the two groups. Although it may sound like a typical childish war, the rivalry is infused with political undertones, as the children come from different socioeconomic backgrounds, and their parents are either French collaborators or members of the Resistance movement.

The plot centers around two protagonists: Lebrac, played by Jean Texier, and Violette, played by Ilona Bachelier. Lebrac is a smart and resourceful boy who leads the Longeverne kids, and who is obsessed with winning the war against Velrans. Violette is a Jewish girl who has been hidden by some of the locals, and who becomes Lebrac's confidante and ally in his war effort.

The film features a delightful and talented cast, including Laetitia Casta, Guillaume Canet, and Kad Merad, who play adults in the story. Casta is cast in the role of Simone, the wife of the Velrans' mayor, who is a genuine villain. Canet plays the father of one of the Longeverne boys and who doesn't approve of his son's participation in the war. Merad plays the village doctor who is also the narrator of events.

The film has a lighthearted tone, and its visuals and settings are stunning. The war scenes are cleverly staged, with creative shots and filming angles. The film is also notable for its impressive attention to detail in recreating the era's costumes and settings.

The central themes of the film are childhood, friendship, and war. War of the Buttons tackles serious ideas such as nationalism, racism, and propaganda with innocence, humor, and playfulness. At the same time, it also speaks of rebellion and survival amid the World War 2 scenario.

Overall, the film serves as a charming and enjoyable commentary on childhood, the trauma of war and tribalism. It shows how social, economic, and political matters corrupt even the simplest of children's play. The story teaches us to defy the odds, to be kind to strangers, and to keep fighting until peace is achieved.

All in all, War of the Buttons is an admirable film that succeeds in communicating its message of peace and hope, while also entertaining and captivating its audiences. The film opens one's eyes to our heritage and history and would be a treat for everyone who enjoys a high-quality story.