Produced and distributed by Pathé, La Bataille de Gaulle is a cinematic diptych directed by Antonin Baudry, written alongside Bérénice Vila, and adapted from the authoritative biography De Gaulle: a Certain Idea of France by historian Julian Jackson. Originally conceived as two interconnected feature films, the project will be released in two installments: The Age of Iron on June 10, 2026, followed by I Write Your Name on July 3, 2026.
Simon Abkarian stars as Charles de Gaulle in this film, supported by an international cast that includes Simon Russell Beale (as Churchill), Benoît Magimel (playing Koenig), Mathieu Kassovitz (portraying Darlan), Anamaria Vartolomei, Niels Schneider, Karim Leklou, Thierry Lhermitte, Campbell Scott, and Pip Torrens. The project benefits from a significant co-production effort involving TF1 Films Production, Canal+, Disney+, TF1, several French regions, and international partners.
June 1940. As France collapses and signs a ceasefire, a relatively unknown general refuses to accept defeat. Isolated, with no army and little political backing, Charles de Gaulle hastily leaves the country to head to London. His bold and daring gamble is to declare that the Battle of France is far from over and that the legitimate French cause can still live on beyond its borders.
Confronted with Allied skepticism and the hostility of the Vichy regime, de Gaulle strives to make his voice heard. Gradually, resistance networks begin to take shape around him—composed of military dissidents and dedicated civilians across France, England, and Africa. Their collective effort begins to crack a destiny that history seemed to have already sealed.
With this diptych, Antonin Baudry continues his exploration of political-military stories, a theme he previously delved into in Le Chant du loup. Opting for a two-film format allows for a richer, more expansive narrative that focuses both on de Gaulle’s personal isolation and on the gradual rise of Free France amidst a complex diplomatic and military landscape.
This project stands out with its ensemble cast and ambitious historical scope, blending political, military, and civilian characters. The direction emphasizes psychological and strategic tension, walking the line between a historical drama and political thriller, all supported by a global-scale reconstruction and diverse sets.
The Battle of Gaulle: The Iron Age | Film | 2026
Release Date in cinemas: June 10, 2026
Genre: Historical, Thriller
Directed by Antonin Baudry | Starring Simon Abkarian, Simon Russell Beale, Florian Lesieur
Country: France
The Battle of Gaulle: I Write Your Name
Film | 2026
Release Date in Theatres: July 3, 2026
Historical, Thriller
Directed by Antonin Baudry | Starring Simon Abkarian, Simon Russell Beale, Florian Lesieur
Country: France
Focusing on the early months of Free France, The Battle of de Gaulle offers a tightly crafted, immersive glimpse into a pivotal moment of the 20th century. The film duo aims to depict the birth of a political legend through themes of doubt, isolation, and resolve, without attempting to recount the entire trajectory of the general’s life.
To extend your in-theater experience, check out the June movie releases, the must-see films currently in theaters, and our curated list of historical films of the year.
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