Movie spotlight
The Deserter
During WW1, a train is stopped by a bombing, a young soldier takes advantage of the opportunity to go to his native village to connect with his love and his family. As WW2 began in the real world, this film was rereleased later in ‘39 under the revised title Je t'attendrai (I Will Wait for You).
Insights
Plot Summary
During World War I, a soldier is unjustly court-martialed and sentenced to death for desertion. However, circumstances reveal his innocence and his true heroism as he attempts to save his comrades from a dangerous mission behind enemy lines.
Critical Reception
The Deserter received a mixed to positive reception upon its release, with critics often praising its earnest portrayal of wartime drama and the performances of its lead actors. Some reviews noted its conventional plot but acknowledged its emotional impact.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its dramatic tension and depiction of wartime sacrifice.
Arlen's performance as the wrongly accused soldier was a highlight for many.
Some critics found the narrative predictable but emotionally resonant.
Google audience: Audience reception information for 'The Deserter (1939)' is not widely available.
Fun Fact
While often billed as a war film, 'The Deserter' was filmed on a relatively modest budget, focusing on character drama within the war setting rather than large-scale battle sequences.
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