Those of Our Land (1915)

Those of Our Land Poster
Original Title: Ceux de chez-nous

With family connections to some famous French artists, writers, and musicians of the time, Sacha Guitry decided to film the individuals in action, to celebrate the greatness of his culture ,threatened by Germany in the ongoing Great War.

Film Background
Produced in 1915, "Those Of Our Land" is a French silent war drama directed by Albert Capellani and Leonce Perret. The movie, starring Leonce Perret and Rene Navarre, showcases the expertise and nerve of the French soldiers during World War I. It is a renowned movie that depicts the valor, patriotism, and sacrifice of the French individuals throughout the Great War.

Plot Summary
"Those Of Our Land" follows the story of two siblings, Jean (Leonce Perret) and Jacques (Rene Navarre). Both brothers are in love with the exact same female, Marthe (Suzanne Grandais). When the war breaks out, both bros employ in the French army, leaving the uncertain Marthe.

While serving at the frontline, they are both recorded by the enemy soldiers. The opponent general, who is also smitten by Marthis's beauty after seeing her photo, decides to use it to his benefit. He offers one of the siblings a possibility to return house, hoping to lure Marthe into his ownership.

Secret Scenes
Among the unforgettable scenes in "Those Of Our Land" is when Jean chooses to compromise his liberty so that Jacques can return home. Jean's selflessness, guts, and brotherly love shine in this poignant cinematic moment.

Another effective scene occurs when Jacques reaches house but can't find Marthe. After learning of the deceit of the enemy general, he collects a lot of French volunteers and winds up a bold mission to rescue Jean and to serve justice to the criminal.

Themes and Cinematic Style
"Those Of Our Land" is embedded with styles of loyalty, patriotism, love, and sacrifice. The movie areas impressive war scenes in which the French soldiers battle valiantly versus their opponents, showing their self-control, guts, and love for their homeland.

Depending on silent cinematic methods and the minimal technological improvement of those times, the film exhibits its styles through dramatic expressions, background scores, and black-and-white images. The movie was shot in real places, which added to its authenticity and historic worth.

Important Reception
"Those Of Our Land" amassed tremendous popularity amid the ongoing war. Audience and critics appreciated it as a spirits booster, representing French guts and patriotism. The efficiencies of Leonce Perret and Rene Navarre were extremely admired and stay considerable in French cinematic history.

Conclusion
In summary, "Those Of Our Land" is a brave tale of love, sacrifice, and bravery set versus the background of World War I. Despite having limited technological methods, the movie efficiently communicates its effective story, making it a significant part of early twentieth-century movie theater. The movie is a historical tribute to the unyielding spirit of French soldiers and their unwavering dedication to their homeland, making it a classic among war dramas.

Top Cast

  • AndrĂ© Antoine (small)
    André Antoine
    Self
  • Sarah Bernhardt (small)
    Sarah Bernhardt
    Self
  • Edgar Degas
    Self
  • Anatole France (small)
    Anatole France
    Self
  • Lucien Guitry
    Self
  • Octave Mirbeau
    Self
  • Claude Monet (small)
    Claude Monet
    Self
  • Auguste Renoir
    Self
  • Henri-Robert
    Self
  • Auguste Rodin
    Self
  • Edmond Rostand (small)
    Edmond Rostand
    Self