Beau Travail (1999)

The new digital restoration of Claire Denis’ poetic tale of rivalry and remorse set in the world of the French Foreign Legion. Australian Premiere.

Commissioned to make a film that explored the idea of “foreignness”, Claire Denis conceived a classic tale of rivalry and remorse within the ranks of a timeless, stateless, society. Since its beginnings in the early 19th century, the French Foreign Legion has been synonymous with Empire, providing a haven for global citizens, seeking adventure or to escape their past.

Taking inspiration from Billy Budd, Sailor by Herman Melville, Beau Travail is the story of Galoup (Denis Lavant), a sergeant who’s shaken to his core by a beguiling new recruit, Sentain (Grégoire Colin). Moving effortlessly between time and space, the conflict and remorse unfolds through the singular memories of Galoup, banished from his legionnaire home and alone in Marseille.

For nearly twenty years Beau Travail has captured the imagination and exemplified Denis’ cerebral, skilful approach to filmmaking. This new digital restoration allows new audiences and fans alike to re-engage with this modern cinema classic.