French actor Simon Abkarian will portray General Charles de Gaulle in the upcoming two-part biopic "La Bataille de Gaulle" [1, 2].
The production serves as a collective act of memory, focusing on the historical moment when de Gaulle refused to capitulate and established Free France [1, 2].
The film was presented this month at the Cannes Film Festival in France [2]. The project is a high-budget superproduction with an estimated cost of 70 million euros [3].
Abkarian shared a personal connection to the role during preparations for the film. "À l'école, mon surnom était « de Gaulle »," Abkarian said [1].
The cinematic event is split into two distinct releases to cover the general's trajectory. The first part is scheduled to hit cinemas on June 3, 2026 [1], while the second part will follow on July 3, 2026 [1].
By dividing the narrative into two parts [1], the filmmakers aim to dramatize the complexities of the French resistance, and the political struggle to reclaim national sovereignty during the war. The film's scale reflects the significance of de Gaulle's legacy in modern French identity [2].
“"À l'école, mon surnom était « de Gaulle »"”
The significant financial investment and the strategic two-part release suggest an attempt to redefine the cinematic portrayal of Charles de Gaulle for a contemporary audience. By premiering at Cannes and timing the releases for June and July, the production aligns itself with peak cultural visibility and French national commemorations.
