Ligne de vie

An old man recounts: I have always worn glasses. Even in the camp, I managed to keep them. We feared the night almost as much as the day. One night, they brought in a newcomer, a bearded man. His drawings over the days had become essential to us. The guards did not understand that only death would prevent him from drawing. All that remains of the camp is this piece of wall, with his last drawing, which he called "Ligne de vie (Lifeline)."

Directed by Serge Avédikian, Ligne de vie leans on a strong ensemble — Bernard Ballet — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about history titles of 2003.