
The 317th Platoon 1965
Pierre Schoendoerffer's 1965 war drama *The 317th Platoon* plunges viewers into the final days of France's Indochina campaign, where a ragtag unit of four French soldiers and 41 Laotian fighters must navigate 150 kilometers of dense jungle to escape ...
Director: Pierre Schoendoerffer
Cast






Frequently Asked Questions
What is *The 317th Platoon* (1965) about?
Set in Laos just days before France's defeat in the Indochina War, the film follows a platoon of French and Laotian soldiers on a desperate retreat through hostile jungle. Their mission: reach Dien Bien Phu before the enemy closes in. This tense journey becomes a battle against nature, exhaustion, and the crushing weight of history.
Who directed *The 317th Platoon*?
The film was directed by Pierre Schoendoerffer, a renowned French filmmaker known for his authentic portrayals of military life and war.
Who stars in *The 317th Platoon*?
The film features Jacques Perrin as Sous-Lieutenant Torrens, Bruno Cremer as Adjutant Willsdorf, and Pierre Fabre among the key cast.
Is *The 317th Platoon* (1965) worth watching?
While IMDb ratings aren't available, *The 317th Platoon* is celebrated for its gripping realism and emotional depth. Its blend of war drama and historical context makes it a compelling choice for fans of the genre, especially those interested in colonial conflicts and survival narratives.
How long is *The 317th Platoon*?
The runtime is 100 minutes.
About The 317th Platoon (1965) — A Gripping War Drama of Survival in Indochina
Pierre Schoendoerffer's 1965 war drama *The 317th Platoon* plunges viewers into the final days of France's Indochina campaign, where a ragtag unit of four French soldiers and 41 Laotian fighters must navigate 150 kilometers of dense jungle to escape before the fall of Dien Bien Phu. Led by the inexperienced Sous-Lieutenant Torrens and hardened German WWII veteran Adjutant Willsdorf, the platoon faces relentless monsoon rains, treacherous terrain, and the looming specter of defeat. This gripping historical drama explores themes of survival, leadership, and the brutal cost of war, blending raw intensity with a poignant reflection on colonial conflicts.
Schoendoerffer, a filmmaker with deep military roots, crafts a tense, immersive experience that captures both the camaraderie and desperation of the platoon. The film's stark realism and moral ambiguity make it a standout in the genre, offering a visceral look at the human side of war's final hours. *The 317th Platoon (1965)* is a must-watch for fans of historical dramas and war films alike.