The Silence of the Sea (1949)

Amid the turmoil of 1941, a quaint town in Nazi-occupied France becomes an unwilling host to the forces of the Reich. An elderly man and his grown-up niece find their tranquil home commandeered by the Nazis for one of their officers, Lieutenant Werner von Ebrennac. The pair silently rebel, performing required duties yet refusing to acknowledge the officer's existence, their silence a defiant protest against the oppressive regime. Von Ebrennac, a man of culture, a composer and musician, treats his imposed lodgings with the utmost respect, as if a guest rather than an invader. Evening after evening, he initiates a peculiar routine - a gentle knock on the door, a respectful intrusion into the room where the uncle and niece convene, and a brief discourse on topics close to his heart. He speaks passionately about music, literature, national pride, and his affection for France. He dreams of a post-war world where France emerges stronger, and French and German cultures intertwine for the betterment of Europe. He asks for no response, expects no acknowledgment, but continually dares to share his thoughts with his silent hosts. Over a span of six months, this routine becomes a haunting dance of silent resistance and unreceived monologues. Yet, despite the silence, von Ebrennac's presence begins to leave an indelible mark on the uncle and niece, a quiet impact that remains largely unexpressed. His stay in France, however, brings about a profound transformation in him. A visit to Paris uncovers the stark realities of the war, shattering his idealistic views and leading him towards an unforeseen awakening. The film, The Silence of the Sea, paints a compelling portrait of resistance, transformation, and the devastating realities of war, unfolding within the silent walls of a commandeered home.

The Silence of the Sea is a drama movie featuring Howard Vernon and directed by Jean-Pierre Melville.

The Silence of the Sea is currently streaming on Criterion Channel.

It is also possible to buy The Silence of the Sea on Amazon Video and Apple TV.