Rossmoor residents are invited to attend a film program sponsored by the Democrats of Rossmoor in Peacock Hall on Monday December 14, 2026. from 1:00-3:30pm. The featured film is Joyeux Noel (2005), a real-life-event that occurred on Christmas Eve 1914 in the trenches of WWI. What occurred was a spontaneous and unofficial cease-fire when troops on both sides — the Germans on one, the Scots and French on the other — put down their weapons to celebrate Christmas mass. This brief sense of peace provides a respite from the carnage of war.
Written and directed by French filmmaker Christian Carion, this film tells the true and touching story of what has been called “the only moment of sanity in an otherwise gruesome experience in futility.” Yet the film is described by many film critics as “a moving and heartwarming cinematic experience.” Clearly, the movie demonstrates both the absurdity of war and the stupidity of politics governing war events.
Joyeux Noel, which tells a tale of war and its effects on soldiers, offers the viewer interesting insights into their responses to the cease-fire. Additionally, film critics agree that the script is superb, the cast is excellent, the sets and cinematography are creatively atmospheric, and the musical score by Philippe Robbie is outstanding. Overall, the film provides what one critic called “a fleeting moment of humanity in the trenches.”
Joyeux Noel runs for almost 2 hours and provides subtitles. Film enthusiast Lynne Thorner will facilitate a thoughtful, post-viewing discussion regarding the thematic aspects of this excellent movie! Please direct any questions or concerns to Lynne at [email protected].