‘Moulin’ Review: László Nemes’ French Resistance Tale Is Prestige Torture Porn
The film 'Moulin' directed by László Nemes explores the life of Jean Moulin, a key figure in the French Resistance during World War II. While the film aims to honor Moulin's legacy, it has been criticized for its oppressive portrayal of the Resistance and reliance on themes of torture. Despite its historical significance, viewers may find the film lacking in broader context and perspective.
- ▪Jean Moulin is a significant figure in French history, known for his leadership in the Resistance against Nazi occupation.
- ▪The film presents a rigorous and austere take on the historical biopic genre, focusing closely on the events surrounding Moulin's life.
- ▪Critics have noted that the film's depiction of Nazi interrogation and torture may overshadow its intended message of remembrance.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
A thorn against France’s humiliating occupation by Nazi Germany in World War II, and the first recognized leader of the Resistance, Jean Moulin has endured in French history as an avatar of moral purity and goodness. Like any country which has withstood and overcome threats to its existence, France is devoted to its national figureheads and statesman. With the splintering and fall of the Popular Front during the Spanish Civil War a horrible omen, Moulin’s unification in 1943 of the disparate forces working against the Vichy regime was the first step toward the liberation (or libération — say it in French!), laying the foundations of today’s liberal democratic France, however precarious it feels in 2026.
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at IndieWire.
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