1939-1940: A Strange Defeat

This documentary examines the period between September 1939 and June 1940, focusing on the French experience during the early stages of World War II. It explores the atmospheric tension and dread that gripped the nation after France joined the war following the invasion of Poland. Despite its status as a major military power with a large empire and British support, the country faced a sudden collapse. The film uses color archives to illustrate how the population navigated the months between the official declaration of war and the eventual defeat in June 1940.

Directed by Antoine Vitkine, this is the third film in his chronological body of work, following The Savior for Sale and Red Shadow over the White House. The production was a collaboration between France Télévisions, ECPAD, and Roche Productions, with Dominique Tibi serving as producer. The film features the voice of Jean-Pierre Darroussin as the narrator. With a runtime of 95 minutes, the project is categorized within the history, war, and documentary genres.