The famous Christmas Truce is one of the ultimate feel-good stories in history, proof that humanity can shine even during the darkest times. During the winter of 1914, only months into the first world war, British, French, and German troops found themselves in a stand-off. Each were dug into trenches, losing massive numbers with no territorial gains to speak of. And on Christmas, they decided not to fight. Instead, they exchanged gifts, sang songs, and even played a friendly football match together. The film Joyeux Noel is an international collaboration that chronicles the inspirational (if short-lived) truce. But here's the thing: no matter how sweet and heartwarming the idea of soldiers laying down their arms and seeing the humanity in their enemy may be, its context as a small part of the most staggeringly destructive war of the 20th century rather tempers its optimism. And it's difficult to forget the fact that as soon as the holiday's over, these men will have no choice but to go back to work, killing and dying for king and country.
Audrey Fox is an ex-film student, which means that she prefers to spend her days in the dark, watching movies and pondering the director's use of diegetic sound. She currently works as an entertainment writer, joyfully rambling about all things film and television related. Add her on Twitter at @audonamission and check out her film blog at 1001moviesandbeyond.com.
