The Army of Crime 2010

In the heart of Paris during the harrowing time of the German occupation, various resistance movements began to take shape, including efforts made by migrants. A mismatched assembly of fighters emerged, engaging in poorly coordinated attacks against the occupying forces. Among them was Missak Manouchian, an Armenian exile whose principles initially held him back from taking a life, as he grappled with the ethical implications of such actions. Nonetheless, the grim realities of his situation compelled him to confront his reservations. Under his guidance, the group of 23 fighters became organized, evolving into what would famously be known as the Manouchian Group. This band was part of a broader network of around 100 resistance members who orchestrated a majority of the armed resistance actions within Paris throughout 1943.

The film vividly chronicles the journey of this resolute group, detailing their formation, the eventual arrests, and their grim trial by a German military court, which culminated in the execution of its members in 1944.

In a bid to diminish public sympathies towards these resistance fighters and to tarnish their image, the Vichy government resorted to distributing and displaying countless posters, nicknamed L’Affiche rouge for their striking red background. These posters featured the images of ten notable members of the group, alongside personal information intended to label the migrants as mere terrorists and criminals. However, the sentiment among the public was remarkably different; many responded by inscribing the phrase Morts pour La France (Died for France) across these posters, a phrase typically reserved to honor fallen soldiers. Individuals also left flowers as a poignant tribute, reflecting the deep respect and recognition for the sacrifices made by these brave fighters.