Ep 1. The Train

A French Village (English subtitled) is a drama series set in the small town of Villeneuve during World War II. In Season 3 Episode 1 titled "The Train," the town is still under German occupation, and the French citizens are grappling with the daily challenges of survival. The episode starts with the news of a train that is anticipated to pass through the town carrying German soldiers and their valuables. The train is both a source of wealth and danger.

As the train approaches, the town's resistance leader, Daniel Larcher, and his colleagues hatch a plan to rob the train and liberate the town from the German occupation. The plan appears straightforward; they will block the train's path and jump aboard the moving train. They will then seize weapons, money, and any other valuable items before escaping into the countryside. Meanwhile, the local collaborator, Antoine, is working with the Germans to ensure the train's safe passage.

As the train arrives in the town, chaos ensues. The resistance fighters block the railway tracks, and to their surprise, the train stops. With adrenaline kicking in, the resistance fighters race towards the train, scrambling aboard. As they move through the train to execute their plan, they encounter obstacles they never expected. What was supposed to be a straightforward operation quickly turns into a tense and dangerous situation.

The German soldiers on the train are heavily armed, and a bloody battle ensues between the resistance fighters and the Germans. The villagers who had gathered to watch in support of the fighters are caught in the crossfire. Among the passengers is a young boy who is separated from his family, and the resistance fighters must make a decision on whether to save him or prioritize their mission.

Meanwhile, the Germans are also on the brink of infighting, with different factions having competing interests. The commander of the train, for instance, is only interested in financial gain and not the overarching mission of the German army. Tensions rise as it becomes clear that the German soldiers may not be in total agreement with their superiors.

The episode ends with numerous casualties and the resistance group having achieved only a partial objective. They must regroup and decide whether to abandon their mission altogether or advance into territory that is likely much more dangerous. As the episode ends, viewers are left to wonder about the fate of the resistance fighters and the people of Villeneuve.

In conclusion, "The Train" in A French Village season 3 episode 1 is a gripping episode that masterfully captures the chaos and danger faced by ordinary citizens who become embroiled in resistance activities during wartime. The episode is marked by unforgettable scenes of violence, bravery, and heartbreak, and it is a testament to the resilience and determination of those who stood against tyranny.