Stunning Film by Simon Abkarian Scores 4.1/5, Shines at Cannes After 12 Years!

Simon Abkarian lights up the screen in “The Battle of Gaulle: The Iron Age,” recently presented at Cannes. This two-part historical epic is directed by Antonin Baudry, who previously impressed with “The Wolf’s Call.” A sequel, “The Battle of Gaulle: I Write Your Name,” is set to hit theaters on July 3, 2026. Abkarian plays the lead role, supported by Benoît Magimel, Thierry Lhermitte, Niels Schneider, and breakout star Florian Lesieur.

The top-rated film is…

Featured at the Directors’ Fortnight in 2014, “The Trial of Viviane Amsalem” is a judicial and marital drama created by Shlomi and Ronit Elkabetz. The feature film portrays an Israeli woman, played by Ronit Elkabetz, who struggles to obtain a divorce from a rabbinical court. Her reluctant husband is portrayed by Simon Abkarian. With over 786 ratings and nearly 132 reviews on AlloCiné, “The Trial of Viviane Amsalem” boasts an average rating of 4.1 out of 5, making it the highest-rated movie in the actor’s career.

Viewer Opinions

Crapouillot (5/5) : “An outstanding chamber piece delivered by convincing actors who fully embody their roles, beautifully illustrating the burdens and injustices of Israeli society, particularly regarding the status of women as perpetual minors without regard for their individuality, completely subject to men, both in body and spirit.“

Flori75 (5/5) : “The film chronicles five years of trials and a Kafkaesque nightmare for this woman to regain her freedom. Ronit Elkabetz, as always, is exceptional: her performance is remarkable. Her expressions are as readable as an open book, reminiscent of the greatest Italian or American actresses. She is strikingly authentic with her unique beauty. Simon Abkarian again proves his undeniable talent; he is breathtaking, and it’s a pity we don’t see him more often in strong roles. Directors should think of him more often. The story unfolds like a thriller, with twists, moments of tension, and comedy—keeping you glued to your seat awaiting the outcome. A real success. Following ‘To Take a Wife’ and ‘Shiva,’ this is a confirmation of the Elkabetz family’s immense talent.“

Duerer (5/5) : “Superbly filmed, sensitive and terrifying at the same time, a critique of a system without being simplistic or dogmatic…“

Musclecine (5/5) : “You leave the film with a tremendous sense of revolt. A revolt against a society made by and for men. This chamber piece calls for true equality. It’s a superb tragedy where all emotions are masterfully portrayed, often just through the actress’s varied facial expressions.“

Alexandra C. (5/5) : “Excellent film; certainly not boring, as the action occurs in a single location. You leave feeling grateful to live in a society where women can control their own bodies and make their own decisions, unlike in the Israeli society depicted, where only men hold power.“

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