

Days of Glory
1943. They have never stepped foot on French soil but because France was at war, Said, Abdelkader, Messaoud and Yassir enlist in the French Army, along with 130,000 other “indigenous” soldiers, to liberate the “fatherland” from the Nazi enemy. Heroes that history has forgotten…
Insights
Plot Summary
This film tells the story of four North African men who enlist in the French army to fight for France in World War II, motivated by promises of citizenship and equal rights. They face intense combat, discrimination from their fellow French soldiers, and the harsh realities of war. The narrative follows their journey from recruitment through pivotal battles, highlighting their bravery and sacrifices.
Critical Reception
Days of Glory received positive reviews, with critics praising its powerful portrayal of overlooked historical figures and its compelling performances. The film was recognized for bringing to light the contributions of colonial soldiers in World War II and for its emotional depth. It resonated with audiences for its focus on themes of sacrifice, identity, and the struggle for recognition.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its historical significance in shedding light on the forgotten contributions of North African soldiers.
- Lauded for its strong performances, particularly from the lead actors, and its emotional impact.
- Noted for its realistic depiction of the brutal realities of war and the systemic discrimination faced by the soldiers.
Google audience: Google users largely appreciated the film's historical importance and its effective storytelling. Many viewers found the performances compelling and the depiction of the soldiers' struggles to be moving and impactful. The film's success in highlighting a lesser-known aspect of World War II history was frequently mentioned as a positive point.
Awards & Accolades
Won the Jury Prize at the Cannes Film Festival in 2006. Nominated for Best Foreign Language Film at the Academy Awards in 2007. Awarded Best Actor at the Cannes Film Festival for its ensemble cast.
Fun Fact
The film was a significant moment for the actors, as it brought much-needed attention to the historical contributions of North African soldiers who fought for France, a topic often marginalized in French historical narratives.
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