Watch Wooden Crosses

In 1932, director Raymond Bernard released his epic war drama film Wooden Crosses. Set during World War I, the story follows the experiences of a young French soldier named Gilbert Demachy, played by Pierre Blanchar, as he is sent to the front lines. The film opens with a scene of Demachy leaving his village for the army, as his mother bids him farewell, unsure if she will ever see him again. Once at the front, he meets a group of fellow soldiers, including the hardened, stoic Lieutenant Mahu, played by Gabriel Gabrio, who becomes a mentor figure for Demachy. They are tasked with holding a position against the relentless German attacks, and the film follows their struggles as they battle not only the enemy, but disease, hunger, and the unforgiving conditions of trench warfare.

One of the things that sets Wooden Crosses apart from other war films of the time is its unflinching portrayal of the brutality and horror of war. The film is not afraid to show the impact of violence on both the soldiers and civilians caught in the conflict. There are scenes depicting the gruesome aftermath of battles, as well as moments of quiet reflection as the soldiers come to terms with the reality of the situation they find themselves in.

The performances in the film are also notable. Blanchar gives a subtle, nuanced performance as Demachy, conveying the character's growing disillusionment and despair over the course of the film. Gabrio is equally impressive as the tough, no-nonsense Mahu, and Charles Vanel stands out as the compassionate Father Laurent, a priest who provides spiritual guidance to the soldiers.

Another notable aspect of Wooden Crosses is its technical achievements. The film was shot on location in the Vosges Mountains, giving it a sense of realism and authenticity that was rare for the time. The battle scenes are expertly choreographed, with the camera capturing the chaos and confusion of warfare in a way that was groundbreaking for its time.

Despite its critical acclaim and status as a classic of French cinema, Wooden Crosses has not received as much attention outside of France as some other films of its era. This may be due in part to its bleak and uncompromising portrayal of war, which may have been too much for audiences in other countries to handle at the time.

However, Wooden Crosses remains an important film both in terms of its place in film history and its depiction of the realities of war. Its themes of disillusionment, sacrifice, and the human costs of conflict are timeless, and the film remains a powerful testament to the bravery and suffering of the soldiers who fought in the Great War.