Ep 1. The Landing (English subtitled)

The Landing is the first episode of A French Village, an acclaimed French television series set during World War II. Set in the fictional village of Villeneuve, the episode opens as German forces are arriving in the town. The villagers are uncertain about what to expect, but they soon realize that their lives are about to change dramatically.

The episode follows several characters as they try to make sense of the new reality. Lucienne, a schoolteacher, is shocked to see her husband, Raymond, collaborating with the Germans. She tries to keep her distance from him, but they are forced to work together when the Germans order the school to remain open.

Daniel, the town doctor, is approached by an old friend who is working for the resistance. He is asked to help smuggle a man out of the village, but he is torn between his duty to his friend and his responsibility to his patients.

Meanwhile, Jean Marchetti, the new mayor of Villeneuve, is grappling with the challenges of working with the Germans. He tries to balance his own political ambitions with the needs of his constituents, but he finds that he is constantly forced to compromise.

As the episode unfolds, the tension in the village increases. The Germans are implementing new laws and regulations, and the villagers are struggling to adapt. Some are collaborating with the occupiers, while others are becoming more involved in the resistance. The situation is complex, and the characters are forced to make difficult choices.

The Landing is a powerful start to A French Village. The episode sets the stage for the series, introducing viewers to the complex web of relationships in the village. It also provides a clear sense of the stakes involved. The villagers are facing a new reality, and they must decide how to respond. Some will choose collaboration, others resistance, and still others will try to find a middle ground.

Throughout the episode, the tension is palpable. The Germans are a constant presence, and their orders are unsettling. The characters are forced to navigate a world where the rules are constantly changing, and the consequences of their actions are uncertain.

Despite the darkness of the subject matter, there is also a sense of hope in The Landing. The characters are not simply victims of the occupation; they are active participants in shaping their own destinies. Each one is struggling to find a way forward, and their struggles are both moving and inspiring.

Overall, The Landing is an impressive first episode. It sets the tone for what is sure to be a gripping series, with complex characters and a rich historical context. Fans of World War II dramas will undoubtedly be drawn in by its compelling portrayal of life in occupied France.