A remake of Billy Budd in the context of the French Foreign Legion is a brilliant idea. Changing the point of view to the older, envious Sr NCO is also a brilliant idea. The film is beautifully shot.
However... This has to be least convincing portrayal of everyday life in the Legion ever made. Young Legionaires don't have birthday parties with their CO. And they don't spend a lot of time frolicking on the beach. It's true they do spend a lot of time ironing, doing laundry, and holes, but the rigid discipline and hyper-masculinity that the Legion is known for is nowhere to be seen. My disbelief could not be suspended.
However... This has to be least convincing portrayal of everyday life in the Legion ever made. Young Legionaires don't have birthday parties with their CO. And they don't spend a lot of time frolicking on the beach. It's true they do spend a lot of time ironing, doing laundry, and holes, but the rigid discipline and hyper-masculinity that the Legion is known for is nowhere to be seen. My disbelief could not be suspended.