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Father and Soldier Exclusive Release

Press Release | 24 Aug 2023

Father and Son

A film by Mathieu Vadepied
Starring and produced by Omar Sy

Exclusive release at Ciné Lumière from 6 October 2023
As part of Black History Month

Following its premiere at the 2022 Cannes Films Festival (Un Certain Regard Selection), Father and Soldier (Les Tirailleurs), directed by Mathieu Vadepied and starring and produced by Omar Sy (The Untouchables, Lupin), is exclusively released at Ciné Lumière from 6 October.

A Box-Office hit in France, Father and Soldier sheds light on the Senegalese soldiers, who fought in the French army’s colonial infantry during WWI and WWII.

“I don’t understand why the story of the Senegalese soldiers, or soldiers from elsewhere, has been so rarely told. I have no explanation for it. I don’t know why, for what reasons we still ignore that part of our history (…). What is paramount today is to tell it, and that’s it. That is why we made this film.” Omar Sy

Synopsis

1917. Bakary Diallo (Omar Sy) enlists in the French army to be near Thierno (Alassane Diong), his 17-year-old son, forced to serve. Sent to the front, father and son must brave the war together. Animated by the ardour of his Captain who wants to lead him into the heart of the battle, Thierno must emancipate himself and become a man. Meanwhile Bakary does whatever it takes to spare his son from fighting, and to bring him home safe and sound.