The Damned Lovers

During the German occupation of France in World War II, a French woman finds herself entangled in a complex and dangerous relationship with a German officer. As their forbidden affair blossoms, she becomes torn between her feelings for him and her loyalty to the French Resistance, leading to dire consequences for all involved. The film explores themes of love, betrayal, and the moral ambiguities of war.

René Clément's 'The Damned Lovers' is a somber and thought-provoking examination of wartime relationships, often praised for its atmospheric tension and the nuanced performances of its lead actors. While some critics found its pacing deliberate, the film is generally regarded as a significant contribution to post-war French cinema, offering a realistic portrayal of the difficult choices individuals faced under occupation.

• Praised for its atmospheric and tense portrayal of wartime romance.

• Noted for the strong performances, particularly Arletty.

• Some found the film's deliberate pace to be slow.

Google audience: Audience reviews are not readily available for this older film.

The film was originally titled 'Le seharusnya', but the title was changed to 'Les Damnés' to reflect the moral and ethical compromises faced by the characters during the war.