It is May 1944 and Luxembourg has just been annexed by Nazi Germany. Francois (Leprince-Ringuet), a young man who has been forced to attend a German university by his fascist father, returns home. Refusing to fight against the allies as a forced recruit, instead Francois chooses a clandestine life in the Resistance and joins other deserters in an abandoned mine, with the Liberation as his only hope.
This directorial debut from filmmaker Nicolas Steil at first seems little more than a coming of age story set against the blood splattered backdrop of World War II. Its protagonist, the privileged but put upon Francois, isnt particularly revolutionary, even if hes endearing enough. Likewise, the heated conflict between fascist father and liberal son is an all too familiar relationship. But rather than spawn yawns, its these tried and tested dynamics that makes Undercover War so identifiable and accessible, even with its grim backdrop.
Credit is also due to relative newcomer Gregoire Leprince-Ringuet, who delivers a mesmerizing performance as the young Francois. A healthy balance of innocence, teenage angst and amiable defiance makes Francois an instantly likeable individual. And it also makes his subsequent journey all the more interesting. The awkward interactions with other deserters hidden away in a dark and gloomy mine is particularly gruelling, while his time spent hidden away in a secret room by the well meaning, but damaged Malou (Basler) also makes for electric viewing.
The film also looks incredibly impressive, with some superior production design that gives the story real weight and texture. Sets and locations look authentic and boast plenty of depth, while lighting design and cinematography elevates the visuals even further.
The stretch of story that plays out in sympathetic Malous home is particularly effective, with the well meaning woman, but jaded woman played against the youngster perfectly. The grimy secret room Francois initially sees as sanctuary quickly becomes a prison, with plenty of potent imagery on offer. As a clunky dresser is dragged across the secret door, Francois abode becomes pitch black, while the paper thin walls tease the helpless youngster to the grim happenings on the other side of his bubble.
Overall Verdict: Immersive and engaging, this war-era drama isnt without its problems but more than delivers with beautiful visuals and a well paced script. And, with a surprising amount of objectivity, this considered tale will give you plenty to chew over long after credits roll.
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Reviewer: David Steele