Anyone who thinks the Foreign Legion is romantic adventure or easy escapism, might take a look at Claire Dennis' "Beau Travail." Day to day drilling is depicted in great detail in this unusual film set in a remote African post.
There's really nothing glamourous about it, and if one can go by this enactment, the whole thing is rather grim. Under a beautiful blue sky and surrounding picturesque landscape two dozen men go at their exercises, drills, and games with disciplined precision. But for what?
What kind of individual is drawn to this life? Societal dropouts? Weak decision makers? Criminals on the run? The French Foreign Legion has a reputation of asking no questions on a candidate's background. If he qualifies physically and pledges loyalty, he's accepted. He then abandons the task of making personal choices; that's done for him. Obey orders, keep your mouth shut, and you'll get along.
Don't expect Wertmuller- or Riefenstal-quality film work here, yet Dennis has talent and skill in capturing the stark realism of her subject. Many scenes have an impact that will tend to remain in the memory; she most certainly has made a statement with "Good Work." ###
There's really nothing glamourous about it, and if one can go by this enactment, the whole thing is rather grim. Under a beautiful blue sky and surrounding picturesque landscape two dozen men go at their exercises, drills, and games with disciplined precision. But for what?
What kind of individual is drawn to this life? Societal dropouts? Weak decision makers? Criminals on the run? The French Foreign Legion has a reputation of asking no questions on a candidate's background. If he qualifies physically and pledges loyalty, he's accepted. He then abandons the task of making personal choices; that's done for him. Obey orders, keep your mouth shut, and you'll get along.
Don't expect Wertmuller- or Riefenstal-quality film work here, yet Dennis has talent and skill in capturing the stark realism of her subject. Many scenes have an impact that will tend to remain in the memory; she most certainly has made a statement with "Good Work." ###