Bells Without Joy (1962)

Plot Summary

In November 1942, American troops landed in Tunisia. German paratroopers were immediately launched and occupied Tunis. A French squadron of chasseurs d'Afrique was sent to Medjez-el Bab with the mission of occupying the bridge over the Medjerda. But the captain is mute and the cavalrymen don't know whether the operation is being prepared against the Germans or the Allies. The first hypothesis inflames Maréchal des Logis Bourgeon and his friend Maurice, who have not forgotten the defeat of '40. In the village, Maurice meets up with his friend Léa, a refugee, and discovers with fury that she is Jewish, because he doesn't like Jews any more than he likes English or Germans! The hunters set up camp on the bridge. Soon, a German column appears and demands passage. The captain refuses, awaiting orders from Vichy. But in Tunis, confusion reigns. Finally, the captain himself takes the initiative to oppose the passage of the German troops...