The Sorrow and the Pity

The Sorrow and the Pity (1970) documentary. Part 1: The Collapse shows how France fell under Nazi sway at the beginning of World War II, and how an uncomfortably large number of the French collaborated or at least cooperated with the Germans. Anglophobia and anti-Semitism ran rampant, even in Vichy France. Part 2: The Choice deals with life in France during the occupation. The choice in question seems to be whether to join the Resistance or not. Several former members of the Resistance are interviewed. Also: A Frenchman who joined the Nazis. And further discussion of anti-Semitism in France, then and now. All of this is followed by interviews about the repercussions that came after the Liberation by Allied forces. At four hours, this movie is plenty long, and you have to be dedicated to history to be able to enjoy it. But if you're into it, it's fascinating. It's in French, with English subtitles. Grade: B+