The Cross of Lorraine

"The Cross of Lorraine" is a 1943 Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer war film directed by Tay Garnett, starring Jean-Pierre Aumont and Gene Kelly. Based on Hans Habe's 1941 novel *A Thousand Shall Fall*, the movie follows French prisoners of war escaping a German prison camp and joining the French Resistance. The title refers to the Cross of Lorraine, a symbol of the Free French Forces chosen by Charles de Gaulle. The film opens with France's defeat in 1940 and its troops' surrender to Germany. A group of soldiers is sent to a brutal prison camp, where they face harsh treatment. Father Sebastian, a priest played by Sir Cedric Hardwicke, provides solace but is eventually killed. Among the prisoners, Duval collaborates with the Germans, while Paul resists. After an uprising led by the prisoners results in Duval's death, the Commandant enacts brutal reprisals, executing every fourth prisoner and breaking Victor mentally. Paul takes on a role aiding his fellow prisoners, helping Sergeant Berger smuggle goods into Occupied France. Eventually, Paul leads 15 men in an escape, blending them with repatriated Alsatians. However, their plan is nearly exposed when the doctor stays behind to help Victor, who is too traumatized to leave. Paul and Victor face further challenges as they flee, encountering a boy who questions their loyalty before joining General Cartier's Resistance. The film culminates in a village uprising against German forces, with villagers aiding the Resistance. The movie was part of MGM's propaganda effort to highlight the French Resistance, following *Reunion in France* ...