what is the point of view in allies

2 min read 26-12-2024

Exploring the Shifting Points of View in "Allies"

The French film "Allies" (or "Alliés" in French), directed by François Favrat, isn't a straightforward narrative with a single, consistent point of view. Instead, it masterfully employs a shifting perspective, enriching the complex themes of friendship, loyalty, and betrayal during wartime. Understanding these shifts is key to appreciating the film's emotional depth and its exploration of moral ambiguity.

The Initial Focus: Lucie's Perspective

The film initially centers heavily on Lucie's perspective. We experience the war's harsh realities through her eyes, witnessing her struggles, her fears, and her burgeoning relationship with her fellow Resistance fighter, Antoine. This intimate perspective allows us to connect deeply with her emotional journey and understand her motivations. Her experiences form the foundation upon which the story's complexities are built.

The Gradual Introduction of Antoine's Point of View

As the narrative unfolds, Antoine's perspective is gradually introduced. We start to glimpse his inner conflicts and hidden motivations, challenging the initial, seemingly simple portrayal of him as a steadfast ally. This subtle shift in focus creates tension and suspense, forcing the audience to re-evaluate their initial assumptions about both characters. The film cleverly avoids presenting a clear-cut "good guy" or "bad guy" dynamic.

The Objective Narrator and the Broader Picture

While the film leans heavily on the subjective experiences of Lucie and Antoine, it also incorporates an objective narrative voice. This broader perspective allows the film to contextualize their individual stories within the wider historical backdrop of the French Resistance. This third-person, more distanced perspective gives weight to the historical impact of their actions and the broader implications of their choices.

The Shifting Trust and the Ambiguity of Perspective

The film's power lies in its ability to manipulate the audience's trust. As the narrative progresses and more information is revealed, our understanding of both Lucie and Antoine shifts. We are forced to question their motives, their loyalties, and even the reliability of our own perceptions. This ambiguity, achieved through the shifting points of view, is central to the film's unsettling effect and its exploration of human complexity during wartime.

The Importance of Subjectivity in Understanding "Allies"

In conclusion, "Allies" doesn't offer a singular, definitive point of view. The shifting perspectives of Lucie and Antoine, coupled with the objective narrative framing, create a rich tapestry of experiences, challenging simplistic interpretations of wartime heroism and betrayal. This strategic use of point of view allows the film to delve deeply into moral complexities and leave a lasting impression on the viewer. The ambiguity forces the audience to engage actively with the story, questioning their own judgments and ultimately drawing their own conclusions about the characters and their actions.