Watch Free Men

Set in 1942 German-occupied Paris, Free Men follows the story of a young Algerian immigrant named Younes (Tahar Rahim) who is initially hesitant to get involved in the resistance movement. He is encouraged to join forces with a group of underground Muslim activists led by the charismatic Si Kaddour Benghabrit (Michael Lonsdale), the rector of the Great Mosque of Paris.

Younes' motivation to join the resistance movement is fueled not just by his allegiance to his new comrades, but also by his budding romance with a young Jewish singer named Salimah (Lubna Azabal), who is hiding from the Nazis. Together, the group attempts to smuggle Jews out of the city and preserve cultural and religious artifacts that might otherwise be destroyed.

Although the group's work is dangerous, they quickly discover that the risks are well worth the reward. Through their efforts, they are able to save the lives of countless individuals and keep hope alive in a city that has been ravaged by war.

The film's central theme is one of fraternity, emphasizing the importance of standing up for one another in times of crisis. Si Kaddour Benghabrit serves as a mentor and father figure to many of the film's characters, reminding everyone of their shared humanity and the importance of protecting the vulnerable. Despite widely differing backgrounds, the members of the resistance movement find common ground in their fight for justice.

The film is loosely based on historical events, including the true story of Si Kaddour Benghabrit and the Great Mosque of Paris. Much of the film was shot on location, lending it an authentic and immersive feel. Throughout the movie, the audience is transported to the streets of Paris during the war, witnessing firsthand the horrors of occupation.

The performances of the film's cast are exceptional, particularly that of Tahar Rahim, who takes on a challenging role as a character who must grapple with the moral ambiguity of his actions. Mahumud Shalaby is also notable as a fiery young activist who serves as a foil to Si Kaddour Benghabrit's calmer influence.

Director Ismaël Ferroukhi does an excellent job establishing a sense of tension and urgency throughout the film, while also taking the time to develop the characters and their relationships. The result is a heartwarming and inspiring story of courage and compassion, as well as a reminder of the importance of community in times of crisis.

Overall, Free Men is a must-see film for anyone interested in World War II history, anti-fascist resistance, or the power of human connection. Its themes of unity, hope, and sacrifice are as relevant today as they were during the war, and serve as a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit.

Free Men is a 2011 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 39 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.6 and a MetaScore of 58.