
“"Burn Paris!" was the order that had come shrieking over the phone.”
Near the end of World War II, Gen. Dietrich von Choltitz receives orders to burn down Paris if it becomes clear the Allies are going to invade, or if he cannot maintain control of the city. After much contemplation Choltitz decides to ignore his orders, enraging the Germans and giving hope to various resistance factions that the city will be liberated. Choltitz, along with Swedish diplomat Raoul Nordling, helps a resistance leader organize his forces.
A gripping, historically rich account of Paris on the brink. It masterfully blends archival footage and dramatic reenactments to capture the tension and hope of a city awaiting liberation. The weight of decisions and the spirit of defiance permeate every frame.















