In a poignant tribute to the 80th anniversary of the Liberation, France 2 presents the telefilm Résistantes, directed by Renaud Bertrand. The film, which aired on May 7, 2025, at 9:10 PM, highlights the crucial role of women during World War II, particularly focusing on the character of Mère Madeleine, a nun who risked her life to protect Jewish children and resistance fighters in Vaucluse during the German occupation.
Set against the backdrop of 1944, Résistantes tells the story of Mère Madeleine, portrayed by Béatrice Facquer and Line Renaud in different timelines. The narrative follows her efforts to shelter Jewish children and resistance fighters while managing an institute for young deaf girls. The film draws inspiration from the real-life figure of Marie-Louise Gervais, known as Mère Moïse, who played a significant role in aiding the resistance in the Vercors region.
In an interview with Bulles de Culture, screenwriters David Crozier and Camille Guichard shared insights into the film's genesis. "It was the discovery of the story of a resistant nun in 1944 that immediately sparked our imagination and made us want to explore the role of women in the Resistance," Crozier explained. Guichard added that they stumbled upon the story of Mère Moïse online and were inspired by her bravery, leading them to delve deeper into the lives of these remarkable women whose contributions have often been overlooked.
To ensure historical accuracy, the screenwriters consulted historians and drew from various female figures to shape Mère Madeleine's character. They crafted a narrative that highlights not only her resistance efforts but also her advocacy for the deaf community, as she clandestinely taught sign language at a time when it was banned in schools. "Her fight for society to adapt to the needs of the deaf was, in itself, an act of resistance," Crozier noted.
One of the film's standout performances comes from Jade Foucart, a 24-year-old deaf actress who plays Solange Gauthier, the daughter of the mayor, who is also taken in by Mère Madeleine. This role marks her acting debut, and she emphasizes the importance of representation in media. "It’s crucial for deaf characters to be played by deaf actors. I loved that the director sought authenticity," she said, reflecting on her experience on set.
Foucart, who was born deaf and has learned to communicate through a combination of spoken language and sign language, faced the challenge of memorizing not only her lines but also those of her co-stars to keep up with the flow of scenes. "I had some apprehension about understanding what the director wanted and how to position myself in front of the camera. Thankfully, I had a coach who helped me convey emotions and practice my lines effectively," she shared.
Jonathan Zaccaï, who plays Armand Gauthier, praised both Renaud and Foucart for their performances. He described Renaud, at 96 years old, as a vibrant and iconic figure, remarking, "Meeting her was a beautiful surprise. She has an incredible gaze that penetrates you, and you understand why she has become such an icon." He also lauded Foucart's authenticity and intensity, stating, "She is an incredible actress, and her truthfulness and accuracy in the role left us all impressed."
The film's narrative intertwines the lives of ordinary people caught in extraordinary circumstances. Mère Madeleine's journey reveals her struggles as she confronts her past while nurturing the next generation. The plot thickens as she discovers that Solange is her granddaughter, and Armand is the son she had to abandon at a young age. This revelation adds a layer of complexity to the story, showcasing the personal sacrifices made during a tumultuous time.
Furthermore, Résistantes addresses the broader theme of resistance against oppression, illustrating how individuals, often without recognition, played pivotal roles in the fight for freedom. The film's portrayal of Mère Madeleine’s courage in hiding Jewish children and resistance fighters reflects the moral dilemmas faced by many during the war.
The telefilm is not just a historical recount; it serves as a reminder of the resilience of women who stood up against tyranny and the importance of recognizing their contributions. As the film unfolds, it captures the emotional weight of these stories, urging viewers to reflect on the sacrifices made for the sake of humanity.
As the 80th anniversary of the Liberation is commemorated, Résistantes stands out as a significant cinematic achievement that sheds light on the often-ignored narratives of women in the Resistance. It invites audiences to engage with history in a meaningful way, fostering a deeper understanding of the past and its relevance to the present.
Available for streaming on France.tv until November 10, 2025, Résistantes not only entertains but also educates, making it a must-watch for anyone interested in the rich tapestry of history and the enduring spirit of resistance.
