Le Petit Soldat (re-release) 2013

In the tumultuous year of 1958, amid the chaos of the Algerian War, a disillusioned deserter from the French army, Bruno Forestier, becomes enmeshed in the complex machinations of La Main Rouge, a French terrorist organization. Despite being devoid of strong political beliefs, Bruno adopts the guise of a reporter to serve his own ambitions. But when tasked with the assassination of Arthur Palivoda, a staunch supporter of Algerian independence and an FLN (National Liberation Front) sympathizer, Bruno’s will begins to waver. Initially, he expresses concerns for his safety, later pretending to be indifferent about the mission.

His fate takes a Shakespearean twist upon meeting Véronica Dreyer, whose hidden allegiance to the FLN remains unknown to him. In a cruel twist of fate, La Main Rouge orchestrates a shocking hit-and-run that involves Bruno’s own vehicle, compelling him to comply and attempt the assassination yet again. Despite his profound reservations, he finds himself hesitating and ultimately opting against the act of violence.

Bruno’s betrayal does not go undetected; the French now label him a traitor. In a desperate bid to escape his predicament, he devises a plan with Véronica to flee to Brazil. Yet, their aspirations for freedom are dashed when Bruno is captured and subjected to severe torture by the Algerians, who had been observing his movements around Palivoda.

After a harrowing escape, Bruno looks to exploit his traumatic experiences by securing diplomatic passports from the French. Even though the Algerians have retreated, he reluctantly agrees to finally eliminate Palivoda in return for the desired documents. The shocking discovery that Véronica is deeply entrenched with the FLN adds even more complexity to Bruno’s already precarious situation.

As tension mounts, the French forces kidnap Véronica, threatening to use her as leverage to extract vital information regarding Algerian activities from Bruno. While he executes the mission hesitantly, the devastating news of Véronica’s tragic fate reaches him. Deeply affected by the loss, Bruno reflects on his experiences, realizing that life is ephemeral and recognizing the importance of letting go of bitterness as he navigates through the turmoil that has engulfed him.