19667.2 / 102h 53mWar Drama History

Is Paris Burning?

""Burn Paris!" was the order that had come shrieking over the phone."

Near the end of World War II, General Dietrich von Choltitz receives orders to burn down Paris if it becomes clear the Allies are going to invade, or if he's unable to maintain control of the city. After much contemplation, Choltitz ignores orders, enraging the Germans and giving hope to various resistance factions that the city will be liberated. Choltitz, alongside Swedish diplomat Raoul Nordling, helps a leader organise his forces.

Quick Stats

7.2

TMDB Rating

227

Votes

2h 53m

Runtime

—

Budget

—

Box Office

—

Return

Key Crew

DirectorRené Clément

WriterLarry Collins

CinematographyMarcel Grignon

ComposerMaurice Jarre

EditorRobert Lawrence

Production DesignPierre Guffroy

Produced by

Paramount PicturesMarianne ProductionsTranscontinental FilmsSeven Arts ProductionsRastar Productions

Where to Watch

Streaming

Netflix

HBO Max

Buy

Apple iTunes

See more on TMDB → JustWatch

Celeste Marlowe

@celeste_writes

8/10

A patient, formally daring work — the cinematography lingers on empty rooms longer than most audiences will tolerate, but those who stay are rewarded with the most haunting final act of the year.

Written Nov 12, 2024 · read original

Jonas Halberg

@jhalberg

9/10

I walked in expecting another genre exercise and walked out feeling like I'd been eavesdropping on a confession. The lead performance is genuinely singular — a career-defining turn.

Written Nov 8, 2024 · read original

Priya Anand

@priya_a

6/10

A few too many scenes feel borrowed from a better film, but the soundtrack and the production design carry the rest. Solid recommendation for fans of slow-burn European thrillers.

Written Oct 30, 2024 · read original